Every website has an address known as a domain name. A domain name usually takes the form of www.yoursitename.com, and a website owner will need to make sure they maintain ownership of their domain name so that anyone who types that address into their internet browser will be directed to their website. 

As part of our website development services, we help our clients register new domain names, and we also ensure that they renew their domain names when necessary. Recently, we have found that some people have begun receiving notices in the mail that appear to be bills requiring them to pay a certain amount in order to maintain ownership of their domain names. These notices usually contain language such as “To ensure listing of your website, please submit payment by [DATE].” These letters can be very misleading, and they may cause website owners to worry that they will lose their domain name, causing their site to go down. To address confusion about this issue, we wanted to explain exactly what domain names are and how website owners can make sure they can maintain ownership of their site’s internet address.

What Is a Domain Name?

A website will have an address that can be typed into a browser in order to load the site. This address is known as a domain name, and it will consist of a string of characters followed by a domain extension such as .com or .net. Most domain names also use the prefix of www, although other types of prefixes may be used to create subdomains that direct users to specific sections of a website.

For decades, a prospective legal client in need of representation had very limited avenues for finding a lawyer. In most cases, he or she would start by digging out the trusty, old phone book and scanning the yellow pages for a firm that looked decent—if the firm was successful enough to spend the extra money— in a two-inch square advertisement. The potential client could also ask friends or family, which, depending on the legal matter at hand, could often be embarrassing or not easy to explain. Beyond that, much was left to mere chance. If a person was lucky enough to stumble upon a good lawyer, great. If not, it was sometimes difficult to tell before the damage was done.

Evolving Consumer Options

Fortunately, the communication age and the rise of digital technology is changing all of that. Do you remember the last time you opened a phone book? Do you even know where to find one? Similarly, modern consumers are also less likely to rely solely on the advice of friends and family without doing a little checking around for themselves. If you were in need of some type of service—say, a good auto body shop—would you ask a friend, then immediately call the shop ready to make an appointment? Maybe, but probably not. More likely, you would get the name of the business and find out what you could about the shop online. You would read reviews, see how they present themselves, and understand how they compare to similar options. Depending upon what you find, then you may be ready to trust them with your car.

Online Video Concepts, LLC releases new website for the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio in Hinsdale, Illinois. The attorneys at  Martoccio & Martoccio provide personalized legal counsel and representation in matters related to family law and personal injury. Visit their website  or call them to set up a free consultation 630-920-8855.