Search Results for: domain name

The Hidden Domain Name Lock-In: Which Registrars Restrict Nameservers?

Restricted domain registrars like Wix and Cloudflare, vs flexible domain registrars that let you update your domain nameservers

When buying a domain name, most website owners assume they can point it wherever they choose. However, depending on where you register your domain, you might run into an unexpected limitation: some registrars do not allow you to change your nameservers.

Instead of simply updating your nameservers to point to a new web host, you are forced to manually manage individual DNS records or transfer the domain out entirely. Many platform-operated registrars enforce these restrictions, keeping your DNS tied to

... Continue reading
Posted in Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Heads Up: “Special” Domain Name Price Increases Coming August 26, 2025

Specialty domain names price increases

Starting August 26, 2025 at 14:00 UTC, the registries behind a group of specialty domain extensions (TLDs) are raising their wholesale prices. Since registrars purchase domains from the registries, these increases flow through to the end customer. Kind of like Trump's USA tariffs.

The good news: this doesn’t affect the classics like .com, .net, or .org. The change is focused on niche, premium-style domains such as .xyz, .beauty, .ceo, .lol, and others.

That means whether you’re registering, renewing, or

... Continue reading
Posted in Announcements, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Domain Name Taken? Here’s What to Do

finding perfect domain name

"Ask David" question: "All the domain names that I have chosen are already taken...what should I do?"

Finding the perfect domain name for your website can feel exciting - until you discover it is already taken.

Unfortunately, most short, memorable .com domains were registered years ago. But that does not mean you are out of options.

In many cases, choosing a smarter variation, adjusting your branding slightly, or exploring alternative extensions can actually lead to a stronger long-term brand.

... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Domain Name Riches: Countries Cashing In on Top-Level Domain Names

country top level domains

In the digital age, even the smallest of countries can strike it rich. While beaches and mountains might be the traditional tourist attractions, there's a new gold rush happening online: domain names. Countries around the world are capitalizing on the unique power of web addresses to generate significant revenue.

A Big Winner: Anguilla for the .ai - i.e. Artificial Intelligence

One of the most notable examples is Anguilla, a tiny Caribbean island. Thanks to the booming artificial intelligence industry,

... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What is Domain Squatting and how to protect your domain name?

domain-squatting

A Digital Land Grab

Domain squatting, also known as cyber squatting or domain name hijacking, is a deceptive practice where individuals or groups register domain names that are identical or confusingly similar to existing trademarks or brand names with the intent to profit from them. These digital squatters often hold these domains hostage, demanding exorbitant sums of money from legitimate owners to relinquish control.  

How Does Domain Squatting Work?

The process of domain squatting typically involves the

... Continue reading
Posted in Business, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Why Are .io Domain Names So Expensive? Are They Worth the Hype?

io-tld-domain-names-premium

The .io domain extension, originally assigned to the British Indian Ocean Territory, has surged in popularity, particularly among tech startups and online businesses. This increased demand has naturally led to higher prices for .io domain names. But is the hype justified? Let's dive in.  

Understanding the .io Domain Boom

The .io domain's appeal stems from a few key factors:

  • Short and Memorable: Its brevity makes it easy to remember and type.
  • Tech-Centric Image: The association with the tech-heavy Indian Ocean
... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Hyphen or No Hyphen? The Domain Name Dilemma

should-you-use-hyphens-in-a-domain-name

"Should I add a hyphen in my domain name or is it better for domain names not to include hyphens?"

Crafting the perfect domain name is a right of passage for any website owner. It's your digital storefront sign, your online calling card. But what happens when the ideal name you have in mind is already taken? Or, maybe you love a two-word phrase, but wonder – hyphen or no hyphen?

The Allure of the Hyphen

Let's say your dream

... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How Many Syllables and Words Make a Domain Name Easy to Remember

short-domain-names

"How many syllables and how many words should a domain name contain to make sure it is easy to remember and user friendly?"

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, it is generally advised to aim for short domain name vs longer domain names. Here are some guidelines for choosing a memorable and user-friendly domain name based on syllables and words:

Syllables:

  • Aim for 1-3 syllables: Studies suggest this sweet spot improves memorability. Popular websites like Google (2 syllables), Twitter (2 syllables), and Amazon (3
... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Why are all of the best domain names taken when there aren’t websites using them?

domain-names

There are a few reasons why all of the best domain names are taken when there aren't websites using them:

  • Domain squatters: Domain squatters are people who register domain names with the intention of selling them for a profit. They may not have any intention of creating a website on the domain name, but they know that other people will be willing to pay a premium for a good domain name.
  • Trademarks: Companies often register domain names that are related
... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What is Web Hosting and Domain Name?

web-hosting-1

When you create a website, you need two things to make it accessible to the public: web hosting and a domain name.

Web hosting is the service that stores your website's files and makes them accessible to visitors. When someone types your website's address into their web browser, their computer sends a request to your web hosting provider, which then delivers the requested files to the user's computer.

A domain name is the address of your website on the internet.

... Continue reading
Posted in Ask David!, Domain Names, Web Hosting | Tagged , | Leave a comment