A domain name is a readable label, like example.com, that identifies a website or service on the internet. DNS maps it to numeric IP addresses so computers can connect.
Why it matters
Domains are your brand's address for web, email and apps. You rent one from a registrar, usually per year, and if it expires the site and email can stop working. The domain name is separate from hosting: you can move the site to a new server by changing DNS while keeping the name.
Example
In blog.example.com, com is the top-level domain, example is the second-level domain you register, and blog is a subdomain you create for free in DNS.
Common mistakes
- Letting the domain expire because the renewal card or contact email is outdated.
- Registering through a reseller and not knowing who holds the account login.
- Assuming buying a domain automatically gives you a website or email.
Related
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This page is general information written by our editorial team and updated when documentation changes. Servers and providers differ, so test changes safely first. See our editorial policy and disclaimer.