Domain Names

Buying domain names is a very common activity on the internet and a necessity for establishing an identity on the web. However, many people still don't understand what a domain is, how it is used and how to properly maintain it. This page and the underlying sub pages will hopefully shed some light on the subject.

How a domain name works
A domain name is not the same thing as an internet site. By registering a domain name, you are reserving the right to use that name to identify an internet site for the period of time that it remains registered to you. An active domain points to a location (IP address) on a host computer connected to the internet that contains the files for a website. Each domain name is assigned at least two Domain Name Servers (DNS). When someone types a domain name into their web browser, the DNS assigned to that particular domain receives the query and sends a request to the host computer to retrieve the files that make up a website for viewing on that persons browser. Each domain name can only point to one location on one computer at a time, although one computer may host many domain names. A domain name can be pointed to a new host by changing the DNS records or assigning new DNS to the domain.

Registering a domain name
You can register a domain name with a multitude of companies online. No matter which company you use the process out lined below will need to be gone through. Once this is done the choice of providers is up to you. DPC provide not only the method of finding a suitable domain but also offer management and aquisition service for that domain name.

• If you know the domain you would like then use our "Select a Domain" option. This will allow you to check the availibility of the domain. If it is available then you can proceed with the purchase. If not you can try again with a diferent TLD. You can use this service to check as many domain names as required.
• If you are not sure about your domain name or the desired one is allready taken. Then use our "Domain Name Wizard" with this tool you can enter up to three keywords that relate to you business and the system will check all the options for availibility.

You can either order your domain online with DPC or if you prefer you can send us your requirements and we will be happy to manage the process for you.