It looks like this: www.website.com

The question is, how do you find available domain names and, if you find one that you like, how do you buy it?

It frequently seems like every good domain name is already taken. However, I am a strong believer that if you are creative and willing to keep trying different ideas, you can find good domain names that were never registered. To search for available names, you should go to a domain registrar’s website (I’ve provided a list below). They will always have a search box on their homepages inviting you to see if your domain idea is available. Don’t be discouraged if your idea is already taken. Try a new idea.

Frequently, you might find that your name has already been take as a .com, but it is still available as .net or .org or something else. I usually think that having the .com is the best option but there are times when you might want to consider something else. I’ll try to write more about that topic another time.

It also possible to buy domain names at auctions from people who already own them. This provides you with the opportunities to find great names but will usually cost a lot more. I frequently see domain names being sold for thousands of dollars. Some have even gone for millions!

Once you find an available name that you like, you can usually just create an account on the website, add the name to your shopping cart and they check out and buy it. Then it’s yours!

When you buy a domain you are really just registering it by the year. Most registars charge about $10 per year to register a domain for you. Some companies charge more, but now you know better. Don’t pay more than $10-$12 per name per year.

Here are a few reputable domain name registrars:

• GoDaddy.com  – This is who I usually use. They are one of the biggest. Costs about $10 per domain.
• NetworkSolutions.com – They are one of the biggest but I do not recommend them. They charge about $34 for a domain.
• Registrar.com

For more information on domain name registration visit wikipedia.org.