I’m a Solopreneur: What Products Do I Need to Get My Business Online?
What does it actually take to get your business online — and how much is that going to cost? If you’re going it alone, these might feel like million-dollar questions. But knowing the basics from the start can save you a lot of time and money. For the solopreneur, there are a few core tools you’ll need to set up a proper online business. What you choose, and how much you budget, really depends on the kind of site you’re building and how hands-on you want to be. Are you happy learning how to make updates yourself, or do you want something that stays simple and code-free? Once you’re clear on your goals and how involved you want to be, it’s much easier to pick the right tools and avoid spending on stuff you don’t need. In this guide, we’ll focus on the simplest essentials to get your business online, what each one does, and how much it typically costs to get started. 1. A great domain name The first thing you’ll need to do is find a great domain name. This is your web address—the thing people type into their browser to find you online. It might seem like a small detail, but choosing the right one can have a huge impact. A good domain makes it easier for customers to remember you, and keep coming back when they need your products or services. Keep it short, easy to spell, and memorable. If you’ve already got ideas (or if you’re looking for inspiration) you can run a quick domain name search to see if it’s available. If your first choice is taken, don’t worry — there are thousands of options. Tweak your original idea, go with a backup, or try a different domain extension. The extension, or the bit after the dot, is called the TLD, or top-level domain. Choosing the right TLD can help shape your brand and show people what kind of business you are. For example, .london might appeal to customers in the capital, while .ltd suggests a business focus. 123 Reg offers .co.uk, .uk, and .com domains starting at only £0.01 (1p!) for the first year. And if you’re buying a 123 Reg product, like a hosting plan or website builder (more on that later), you can even get a .online domain for free. There are loads of alternatives like .info, .biz, .ai, .studio, .life, .florist — you name it! Whatever your industry or shtick, you’re sure to find a good TLD to match. Remember, you can also buy more than one domain to cover your bases. For example, you might grab your main name plus a location-based version or something product-specific. Bundling them together can make it easier for customers to find you and helps protect your brand from competitors snapping up similar names. If you’re looking to choose a good domain name, go to our domain search and run a quick search to see if it’s available. See also: What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)? and .com vs .co.uk – Which Domain is Best for Your British Business? 2. An easy way to build a great website Before you start building your business website, make sure you’re clear on the type of site you want and how it should look. Do you want a simple site where people can learn about what you do and how you can help? In this case, you’ll likely need a small website with a few key pages such as homepage, about and contact pages, a products or services page, and maybe a blog. If you’re planning to sell products directly from your site, you’ll need an ecommerce website that includes other essential pages such as product pages, online ordering, help, and support. Assuming you don’t have the time, tech skills, or inclination to build a website entirely from scratch, there are three main options when it comes to creating a website in minutes. Website Builder Finding a good website creation tool is the best place to start. These platforms are perfect for those who want a professional-looking website without needing any coding skills or having to learn about web development. With 123 Reg’s Website Builder, you can create a site that looks great and works well without needing a developer. Website builders like this one are ideal if you’re on a budget or don’t have a lot of technical know-how. You can make changes to your site easily, without needing outside help. It’s a quick and affordable way to get your website up and running. Website Builder offers pre-designed templates, so you don’t need to worry about designing your site from scratch. You can pick a template that suits your brand and customise it by adding your own images, text, and even changing the colours and fonts. You can also add extra features like a blog, contact forms, or social media buttons to make your site more interactive. You won’t need to worry about finding hosting or managing complicated behind-the-scenes tasks. The platform handles it all, leaving you with time to focus on what you do. Having a website that’s mobile-friendly isn’t a nice-to-have anymore – it’s a must. Choose a web design tool that does the hard work for you, with responsive design templates that adjust your store’s layout for mobile devices. Website Builder plans start from just £5.99 a month when you choose annual billing. All plans include a free domain, built-in security, email addresses, blogging tools — everything you need to get your site up and running. The entry-level Personal plan gives you 50 pages to work with and tools for sharing content, while the Business plan adds built-in SEO to help more people find you. If you’re after more features, Business Plus includes social media integration and online appointment booking, while the Online Store plan adds full ecommerce tools like stock control, discount codes, flexible payments, and shipping options—from just £13.49/month. You can get everything you need to get started, in
What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)?
The Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the last part of your domain name — like the “.co.uk” in mybusiness.co.uk. But it’s more than a few letters after a dot. That little ending plays an essential part of your website’s identity, working as a signature that ties your online brand together. In this guide, we’ll look at how your choice of TLD can give your website a smart finishing touch. We’ll also share some simple tips on choosing a domain name that’s clear, catchy and won’t break the bank. What is a domain name, anyway? To start with the basics: a domain name is the address typed into a browser to visit a website. Every site has its own unique domain, just like every house has its own postcode. Domain names serve to replace long strings of numbers, called IP addresses, with something that’s much easier for us to remember. So, instead of having to recall numbers like 191.124.184.129, visitors can simply type in (or search for) a web address like www.123-reg.co.uk — quick, easy, and memorable. After the “protocol” at the very start (usually HTTP/HTTPS), a domain name is made up of three primary parts: Subdomain: Most often “www” Second-Level Domain: The words or numbers in the middle, like “123-Reg” Top-Level Domain (TLD): The “.com” or other suffix at the end According to Verisign’s 2024 Domain Name Industry Brief, there are over 362 million registered domain names today. With around a million new domains added each month, the total is expected to hit 550 million by 2026. Why do we need Top-Level Domains (TLDs)? TLDs organise the internet by replacing IP addresses with easy-to-remember names, making websites simpler to find. They’re limited in number, keeping the web structured and manageable. Without them, the internet would feel chaotic. They also give visitors clues about the kind of site they’re visiting, helping to create an identity that matches the brand or business. Whether it’s a .com, .co.uk, or something a little more niche like .ai, .studio, or .life, that suffix at the end plays an important role in shaping first impressions. TLDs work to make websites feel more trustworthy, relevant, and professional. Why choosing the right TLD matters Choosing the best TLD is an important decision when buying a domain. It’s more than just what comes after the dot — it tells the world about the business and what it stands for. Your web address is often the first thing people notice about your brand, so it’s worth getting it right. As we’ll explore, buying a great domain name can have a huge impact. ☒ Crafting a memorable identity The TLD is one of the first things visitors notice. A relevant and unique suffix can help make your website more memorable and set it apart. For creative businesses, niche TLDs like .studio can reflect a brand’s personality and catch the eye. ☒ Telling your brand story A TLD can tell your brand’s story before anyone even visits your homepage. Whether it’s a classic .com or a specific option like .tech or .design, it adds context and sets the tone for what customers can expect. For instance, a green business might choose .eco to highlight its sustainability, while a creative business could pick .studio to show off its artistic side. See also: Names That Click – How to Choose a Great Domain Name A brief history of TLDs TLDs have been around since the early days of the internet. Back in the 1980s, there were just seven extensions to choose from – including .com for commercial business, .org for organisations, and .net for networks. Simple, but not a lot of fun. Altogether, the original seven domain extensions were: ✓ .com – for commercial businesses ✓ .org – for organisations ✓ .net – for all sorts of networks ✓ .edu – for education institutions (only for accredited institutions) ✓ .gov – for government entities (only for official use) ✓ .mil – for the U.S. military (restricted) ✓ .int – international organisations (also restricted, for entities like NATO) You’ll notice that, among the original seven TLDs, only three sorts of domain were even open to the public. It quickly became clear more were needed to support the rapid growth of the internet. The .co.uk was born just a few months after .com in 1985. Managed by Nominet, it fast became the most popular domain for businesses and organisations in Britain. (We can’t believe .co.uk is 40!) The expansion of TLDs is overseen by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Formed in 1998, ICANN is a non-profit organisation responsible for coordinating the global domain name system. Their job is to make sure domains are unique — keeping the internet manageable and secure. As the internet grew, the original TLDs started to fill up quickly. To make more room, new ones needed to be added, released by ICANN in occasional batches. Fast forward to today, and there are hundreds of TLDs to choose from from when buying a domain name. What different types of TLDs are there? Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) More or less by definition, generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) are open to everyone. These domains have no restrictions and can be registered by all. .com was originally intended for commercial businesses, but there’s no limits on who can buy the domain today. There’s no need to meet any strict criteria as you would with, for example, certain country code domains. Similarly, .org was originally created for non-profit organisations, but over time became open to all. Today, the original big gun gTLDs remain some of the internet’s best known. Indeed, .com is easily the most popular suffix online. As of 2023 there are about 160 million .com web addresses registered, making it the web’s favourite domain ending by a wide margin. While .com domains get top marks for brand appeal, they’re heavily saturated. Many of the short and obvious choices (think “search.com” or “music.com”) were snapped
How to Start an Online Business (Without Any Money)
Your imagination is your most valuable asset when it comes to starting an online business. It’s all about that great idea. You don’t need money in the bank or a computer science degree to make it happen. A spark of genius can ignite an empire. Starting strong begins with the essentials: buying a domain, building a website, setting up a custom email address. These steps lay the foundation. Once you’ve set your target, your time and energy become your first investment. One of the best things about doing business online is the flexibility — you control the model, the hours, and everything in between. You’re the boss. If you’re looking for a quicker way to win customers, selling through existing marketplaces gives you access to an instant audience. And if managing stock and storage isn’t your thing, a model like dropshipping lets you run a shop without ever handling the products. Easier said than done? Fair enough — there will be a few bumps along the way. The competition’s fierce. And once you’ve decided to launch your business, there’s also the small matter of registration, taxes, and keeping things above board. Let’s get into it! #1 Choose your business model Think about the core of your business: the product or service you’ll offer. What are you passionate about? What skills and expertise do you possess? Consider the size of your venture: is this going to be a hustle on the side, or a full-time commitment? When it comes to no-to-low cost online business ideas, here are just some of the models to choose from: ☐ Wholesale (Bulk Distribution) Wholesale is all about buying products in bulk from manufacturers or distributors, then selling direct to other stores. This could be clothing and apparel, electronics and accessories, food and drink… you name it. Success as a wholesaler depends on one very expensive thing, however: space. You’ll also need time to build a reputation before expanding into bulk distribution. So, when it comes to ideas for starting an online business from zero, wholesale might be more of a medium-long term model to aim for. Luckily, there are easier ways to get started. ☐ Dropshipping (Inventory-less Retail) If you’d prefer to avoid managing inventory and shipping — or if space is tight — then dropshipping could be the best option for you. Here’s the idea: when a customer places an order, it’s shipped directly from the supplier to them. Imagine running an online clothing store. With dropshipping, you can partner with manufacturers to send items straight from the factory to your customers, saving storage space and cutting out the logistical headache. Dropshipping has a lower barrier to entry than wholesale due to the lack of upfront inventory and storage space costs. Profit margins tend to be lower, as you’re essentially paying the supplier to handle all the fulfillment. But it’s a great place to start. ☐ Reselling Reselling is about buying products, new or used, and selling them on at a higher price. While the word might conjure up images of selling second-hand goods on eBay, the majority of online shops are essentially resellers. The reselling model is especially common on major online marketplace platforms. For example, you might purchase popular mobile phones from major retailers and resell them at a higher price. The key difference between resellers and dropshippers is that resellers hold stock, even if only in small quantities. ‘Arbitrage’ is another sort of reselling where sellers set out to profit from price differences between markets. While it can work for some, it’s important to keep everything above board! ☐ Private Label Going private label is way to build brand identity without the hassle and expense of manufacturing products from scratch. Essentially, you partner with a manufacturer who produces a generic product, which you then customise with your own branding. You can offer unique products under your own name, even if you don’t have the resources to create them yourself. ☐ Handmade Goods and Custom Products Artisans and craftspeople have long put their skills to work selling handmade goods online. This might includes unique jewellery, clothing, furniture, art, and more. You can add personalisation options for a special touch. A popular subcategory is Print on Demand (POD), where you sell custom items like t-shirts or mugs made especially to order. ☐ Digital Products This category encompasses a wide range of products, including eBooks, software, digital art, and more. Creating and selling digital products can be a cost-effective way to reach a global audience. Say you’re the author of a series of eBooks, for instance. You could sell your titles on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Apple Books, or through your own website. Just be sure to use Digital Rights Management to deter any unauthorised copying and sharing. ☐ Subscription Services (Physical) Offering products on a subscription basis has the potential to bring in a steady stream of revenue. Subscription boxes filled with curated physical products, such as beauty samples, gourmet snacks, or hobby-related items, offer customers the excitement of receiving new surprises regularly. One popular example might be subscription cooking packs and spices. ☐ Affiliate Marketing Affiliate marketing is a performance-based way to earn, where you make commission promoting other people’s products or services. Typically, you’ll earn a little for each sale made through unique referral links. The key is to focus on products or services that align with your audience’s interests and needs. Affiliate marketing can bring significant earning potential for popular bloggers and vloggers, Youtubers and social media influencers — which brings us nicely to the next category… ☐ Freelance Creative Freelance creative work lets you turn your skills into a flexible way to earn. Set your own rates, choose your hours, and work on your terms. Whether through a freelance platform or your own website, a good portfolio can show off your best work and happy clients. Creative freelance services might include: ✓ Graphic design✓ Illustration✓ Photography✓
.com vs .co.uk: Which Domain is Best for Your British Business?
Buying a domain name is like setting up a shopfront on the high street — it makes an impression before customers have even stepped inside. For UK businesses, one of the big decisions boils down to choosing a .com or a .co.uk. They’re both well-established, and the one you choose could shape how people see your brand and who finds you online. You’ll want to strike a balance between reaching the right crowd and building trust from the start. So, which one to get: a .com or a .co.uk? And can’t you have both? Let’s break it down to help you decide on the right fit for your British business. What is a domain name, anyway? To get the basics out of the way, a domain name is a unique address you type into a web browser to visit a website. It’s how people find your business online. Domain names are typically made up of three main parts: the Subdomain, the Second-Level Domain, and the Top-Level Domain (TLD). Taking www.123-Reg.co.uk as an example, “www” is the Subdomain, “123-Reg” is the Second-Level Domain, and “.co.uk” is the TLD. The Second-Level Domain is your first big decision. It’s the unique and memorable bit in the middle, often tied to your brand name, and what many people recognise the most. The Top-Level Domain (TLD), like “.com” or “.co.uk,” sits at the end. This extension serves to finish off the address, but also gives a clue about a website’s purpose, where it’s located, or the type of business it’s for. What’s the difference between .com and .co.uk? .com and .co.uk are two of the most established and recognisable domain names out there. Both were launched way back in 1985. For reference, that’s the same year Tears for Fears released Everybody Wants to Rule the World. Pushing 40 now, they’ve been ruling the online world pretty much since the start. .com The .com domain was originally created for commercial businesses — hence the dot “com” for “commercial.” Yes, it’s surprising how few people know that! As the internet grew, especially in the early days when the US was leading the charge, the .com domain was a favourite for American businesses. However, .com isn’t tied to the US: it’s a truly global TLD and available to anyone, anywhere. .com is managed by Verisign, the company responsible for its global admin. As of 2023 there are about 160 million .com domain names registered, making it the most popular TLD by a big margin. ✓ .com domain: A global TLD with massive recognition, boasting over 160 million registrations worldwide. Anyone can buy a .com domain, but it suits businesses with international ambitions, offering credibility and broad appeal. It’s a universal choice for anyone looking to build a website. .co.uk As you might expect, the .co.uk domain was primarily introduced for British companies. It’s associated with trusted, local businesses and caters more towards domestic UK customers. There are about 11 million .co.uk domains according to Nominet, the UK-based organisation that oversees registrations. Do you need to be a British business to register a .co.uk domain? The short answer to that is no. The long answer is that you used to… until 1996. Originally, .co.uk domains were restricted to companies with a British presence or connection. Nominet later removed the restrictions, opening .co.uk registrations to all, regardless of location. ✓ .co.uk domain: A trusted choice for UK-based businesses, suggestive of local roots and with a dose of Great British branding. It’s an excellent pick for companies focused on the domestic market, but it’s rightly famous around the world, too. Why does your domain matter for your business? You domain name is your brand’s home online. A memorable domain can help your business stand out and makes it easy for customers to find and share your site. You’ll want to get it right because the name you choose can have a big impact on how your business is remembered and found. Well-known TLDs like .com or .co.uk add a sense of reliability. They build trust, showing (together with correct details and an SSL Certificate) that you’re a credible business. Think of it as an investment — choosing wisely now can save you time and money later. If you’re running a UK business, the decision between .com and .co.uk can shape how people see your site. Both have their perks, and understanding what suits your goals can make all the difference. How do I choose the right domain name for my business? There are a few simple pointers to keep in mind when choosing a domain name. First and foremost: make it closely tied to your brand or business name. It should also be easy to type — keeping it short and avoiding overly long names is key. After all, you want visitors to be able to type it into their browser, so aim for something catchy and memorable. After the basics, the decision depends on your audience, your goals, and how you want to position your business. Let’s break it down to help you make the right choice: ☐ Audience focus Start off by thinking about your audience. A .co.uk domain shows UK customers you’re local and ready to serve them, while a .com domain often feels more international. If you’re targeting global customers, .com might feel like the natural choice. But if you’re focused on the UK, .co.uk helps build trust with UK consumers. ☐ Protecting your brand Check if your chosen name is available in both .com and .co.uk, and compare the costs. It’s often a smart idea to register both extensions — protecting your brand while keeping things consistent for your customers. ☐ Industry insight Take a look at what others in your industry are doing. Looking at competitors can help you make a choice that fits your branding. ☐ Future ambitions Think about where your business is headed. If you’re staying local, a .co.uk domain keeps that British
What is the .AI Domain (and How Do I Get One)?
With artificial intelligence taking over the world, it’s no surprise the .AI domain is getting so much attention. It’s a short, snappy, and easy-to-remember TLD that offers brands a modern, tech-forward image. But it’s not just for businesses working in the tech sector. Anyone can register the .AI extension and, because it’s one of the newer TLDs, it can be easier to find a great web address and make your business stand out in the digital crowd. What is AI? l What is the .AI domain? l Who can register .AI? l Why get .AI? l Successful Examples l How do I buy .AI? What is AI? Only a couple of years ago and the words “Artificial Intelligence” might’ve had you thinking about scenarios straight out of sci-fi: epic showdowns between humans and sentient androids, the rise of the machines, and so forth. AI isn’t some futuristic notion anymore. It’s here, shaping how we do business and transforming our daily lives. From smart home devices that can preheat your oven to AI-driven apps diagnosing medical conditions, AI is at the heart of it all. The UK is an AI hotspot – with twice as many AI-based companies as any other country in Europe. London is home to a good handful of the biggest names, not least of all Google’s own research lab, DeepMind. The UK artificial intelligence industry is on course to exceed £4.5 billion this year. Needless to say: artificial intelligence is here to stay. And as the technology keeps moving on at rapid pace, the .AI extension has become an in-demand choice for all sorts of businesses. What is the .AI domain? Surprisingly, the “.AI” web address wasn’t born in tech world, but on an island paradise. It’s another good example of a ccTLD finding new life beyond its intended use, like “IT” for Italy or “.ME” for Montenegro. Of course, .AI still works very well for businesses based in Anguilla! The .AI domain has since evolved into something much bigger – a stamp of authority for brands at the forefront. The rise of artificial intelligence has seen interest in the domain skyrocket, making it a go-to choice for startups and enterprises working in technology. ❝.AI has evolved into something much bigger – a stamp of authority for brands at the forefront.❞ According to WHOIS data, the total number registered .AI domains has more than doubled in the last couple of years. Interestingly, the revenue from .AI domain registrations has actually become a big economic boon for little Anguilla — the government of which receives a slice of the fee for all registrations and renewals! Who Can Register a .AI Domain? Similar to other top-level domains (TLDs), there are certain rules in place when it comes to registering a .AI domain. The good news, though, is that .AI is for everyone. You don’t need to be living on a tropical island just to grab this domain. You don’t even need a computer science degree. But that also means that anyone else out there can snap up the perfect domain before you do! If you’re starting an online venture, there’s no better time than now to buy a .AI web address. Cheers! Why Get a .AI Domain Name? 1. Short and memorable With only the two initials, the .AI suffix is easy to remember and share, making it perfect for building a strong brand identity. Because it’s so short and punchy, people are much more likely to remember (and shout about) your web address. 2. Greater availability Unlike some other domain extensions, .AI is relatively new, so there’s a good chance you can find the perfect domain name for your business. There are only about 400,000 registered .AI registered domains as of 2024. That may sound a lot, but compare that to millions (yes, millions) of .com and .org domains. Early adopters can reap the benefits of having a distinct and meaningful online address that gets them standing out in a competitive market. 3. Show your expertise Your .AI domain instantly signals credibility and expertise in the field of AI, making a strong impression before visitors even reach your site. It’s like a digital badge of honour or stamp of approval – showing you’re at the forefront of technology. 4. Own your brand A .AI domain can be a powerful tool for building a strong brand identity. It’s more than just a website address – it’s a statement about your business. This doesn’t only apply to tech firms. Whether you’re a startup, a creative agency, or any sort of business looking to embrace innovation, a .AI domain positions you as forward-thinking. 5. Higher ranking An .AI domain can give your website a significant boost in search engine rankings, especially when people are searching for AI-related products or services. Because it’s directly related to artificial intelligence, search engines are more likely to see your website as relevant to those queries. This can lead to higher organic traffic and better visibility in search results. 6. Value for money Many popular domain extensions, like .com, are overcrowded, making it hard for businesses and individuals to find and buy good names at affordable prices. .AI domains are a great new alternative, allowing people to secure ideal names that reflect their brand or identity, but at a fraction of the cost of the other, more-saturated TLDs. 7. Future ready Choosing a .AI domain shows the world that you’re forward-thinking and committed to using the latest technology. It positions your business as a leader. By securing your .AI domain, you’re not just claiming a website address – you’re staking your claim in the digital future. Examples of Successful .AI Domains Still not sure if a .AI domain is right for you? Check out how some major players are using it: ☐ AI.google: Google’s AI division uses the .AI domain to highlight its focus on AI technology and its benefits. ☐ Facebook.ai: Meta (formerly Facebook) uses .AI to showcase its commitment to AI research and
The Most Expensive Domain Names Ever Sold
Many of us overestimate how much it costs to register a great domain name. You might assume that domains are expensive, especially when they’re short, snappy, and with one of those famous endings like “.com” or “.co.uk”. You could be under the impression that all the best domains have already been taken, anyway — gone, snatched up, like the last doughnut in the office or a Saturday parking space at Lidl. This isn’t always helped by media coverage of high-profile sales. And for sure, some domains can be very pricey indeed. The most expensive ones fetch the same sort of prices as masterpieces at an art auction. The reality, however, is that you can easily pick up a fantastic domain for absolute peanuts. And there are still plenty of excellent choices available. Then, what’s the typical price for a domain name? That’s difficult to say. The average price of a domain depends on a few factors, be that the extension (TLD), the registrar you choose, and the additional services you opt for when you buy. While it’s tough to give an average, let’s go out on a limb and say you can expect to pay between £10 to £30 per year for a good proportion. If you look in the right places, though, you’ll be able to find fantastic deals on cheap domains. What’s for sure is that finding the right one can make a huge difference to your online success. So, whether you’d like to start a blog, show off your professional portfolio, or even start an online business, it’s great to know you can do it with hardly any cash in the bank. Explore thousands of domains and turn your idea into a reality The most expensive domain names ever Figuring out the exact price of a domain name sale is a bit of a guessing game. Many sales are made with non-disclosure agreements in place, keeping the exact numbers under wraps. In at first place is the US-based automotive website, cars.com. Widely regarded as the most expensive domain ever publicised, a report from the website itself shows the domain as an asset valued at approximately £666 ($872 million).¹ (This begs the question, though: if other companies were to reveal the value of their domain as an asset, wouldn’t some be worth even more?) Moving on, number two on the list is business.com. A generic and highly sought-after domain, this digital asset was officially acquired for a staggering £264 ($345m). It’s a good example of a memorable keyword that captures a big audience. In third place is the self-explanatory carInsurance.com. Sold for the princely sum of £39 ($49.7) million, it all goes to show how important it is to have a website name that people can easily understand and connect to. And here’s the full list:² 1. Cars.com — £666 million2. Business.com — £264 million 3. CarInsurance.com — £39 million 4. LasVegas.com — £68.75 million5. Insurance.com — £28 million 6. VacationRentals.com — £28 million 7. PrivateJet.com — £24 million 8. Voice.com — £24 million 9. Internet.com — £14 million 10. 360.com — £13 million 11. Insure.com — £13 million 12. Fund.com — £10 million 13. Sex.com (again*) — £11 million 14. Sex.com — £10 million 15.Hotels.com — £9 million 16. Porn.com — £8 million 17. Shoes.com — £7 million 18. Porno.com — £7 million 19. Fb.com — £7 million 20. We.com — £6 million *Sold for the second time (Insert own joke) Why are some domain names so expensive? Domain names can fetch high prices for all sorts of reasons. Just like prime real estate, a premium domain name is an investment. Domains that combine keywords with commercial value, together with popular endings, can sell for eye-watering sums. A good domain makes it easier for customers to find you, boosting brand recognition and setting the stage for future growth. You’ll notice that all twenty on the list are “.com” domains. This just goes to show their popularity and perceived value. That’s especially in the United States, where it’s arguably seen as the default domain extension, even above “.us”. Short, catchy, and easy-to-remember names are more valuable for branding and tend to perform better in search engine results. Take domains like “Uber.com”, “Zoom.com” and, of course, “google.com”, for example. These names are easy to remember, relevant to the brand, and roll off the tongue. Trending topics or industries also tend to increase the demand for specific domains. With millions of domains already registered, unique and relevant using the traditional suffixes can indeed become more difficult to come by, driving up the cost. Older domain names with established traffic and backlinks also tend to command higher prices. Where can I find a cheap domain name? There are upwards of 350 million domain names already out there. With roughly 1 million new domains registered monthly, that number will be over half a billion by 2026.³ Thankfully, new endings (TLDs) are constantly being released. Novel suffixes, like “.blog“, “.shop“, or “.tech”, and the newly released “.ai” domain extension, offer a fresh and creative alternatives. It’s easy to find cheap domains that can work well for your online brand. According to the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) database, there are almost 1600 domain extensions, or “Top-Level Domains” (TLDs) to choose from. That’s a lot of choice! If you invest a little time and effort in research, lots of domain registrars (domain name sellers) run promotions and offer discounts, especially on multi-year registrations. Great registrars like 123 Reg (that’s us) may even offer additional perks such as free privacy and security features, which can add extra value to your purchase. Comparing prices and taking advantage of these deals, you could save lots. At 123 Reg, we offer competitive pricing on a wide range of domain extensions, starting from as little as 0.79p for the first year. You can easily browse our selection and find the perfect domain name for your business, all without breaking the bank. No need to rush into
What is DNS? How Do Websites Get Found Online?
Ever wondered how typing a simple website name seems to magically take you to the right place? The answer lies in the Domain Name System (DNS) and Nameservers. Understanding what happens behind the scenes might seem technical, but it’s foundational to how we navigate the internet. While you don’t need to know the ins and outs of DNS to get a great website up and running, there may be occasions when it’s necessary to make changes. DNS and Nameservers: The Basics You can think of the Domain Name System (DNS) as a giant telephone directory for the web. Every server and device has an Internet Protocol (IP) address. Each website can get its own entry in the book. In the early days of the internet, you had to manually enter long sets of numbers to connect to a website—fine for tech enthusiasts, but not practical for everyday users. DNS simplifies this by translating web addresses into IP addresses. When you enter a domain name (like “123-reg.co.uk”) into your browser, it gets converted into a corresponding IP address (like “123.0.1.2”). This connects you to the correct web server, making internet navigation more user-friendly. DNS infrastructure allows us to choose from thousands of memorable domain names instead of cumbersome numerical addresses. For example, 8.8.8.8 is the IP address for https://dns.google/, which is Google’s free tool for translating domain names into IP addresses. See also: Names That Click – How to Choose the Right Domain Name Where DNS is the directory, Nameservers are the operators. They connect you to the website or service you want to get through to. When you type a domain name into your browser, Nameservers (also known as ‘DNS Servers’) kick into action — translating, or ‘resolving’, domain names into IP addresses. Image: DNS-Server – Author: Seobility – Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 Not every website has its own entry in the DNS. Multiple domain names can point to the same IP address, and there can be several DNS records associated with a single IP address, such as for different services hosted on the same server. You can also manually enter the IP address directly into your address bar to reach a website, bypassing DNS altogether. However, most major websites balance traffic by using several IP addresses. DNS caching temporarily stores the mapping between domain names and their corresponding IP addresses. This speeds up future website visits because the lookup information is readily available. Specifically, the DNS resolver caches IP addresses for a specified time known as Time to Live (TTL), which allows it to respond more quickly to subsequent requests for the same domain. Remember, you don’t need in-depth knowledge about DNS to buy a domain and build a website; your hosting provider handles the technical details behind the scenes. Did you know? IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) was the first version of IP address to catch on. The original 32-bit system made 4.3 billion unique addresses possible. But that wasn’t enough to keep up with the explosion of internet-connected devices. Later, IPv6 was released, with a 128-bit format which makes 340 trillion trillion trillion unique IP addresses possible. What are the DNS record types? DNS Records are the individual pieces of data stored within the Domain Name System. They contain different kinds of info that help internet services know how to deal with your website — not least of all, where to find it. The good news is: you don’t usually need to create or edit DNS Records yourself! Good website hosts will generally handle this all for you. However, there may be times when you want to take more control over your DNS Records. The most important DNS Record for website owners is the A record, which maps domain names to their IP addresses, allowing users (and browsers) to find your site. Here’s a hierarchical list of the different types of Records that make your domain name work: ✓ NS (Nameserver) Record✓ A (Address) Record✓ CNAME (Canonical Name) Record✓ MX (Mail Exchange) Record✓ TXT (Text) Record The Nameserver “NS” Record sits at the top and delegate authority for a domain to specific nameservers. These Records hold all the information about your domain, like where your website files are stored and how to handle emails. Without them, the rest of your website’s address lookup wouldn’t work. When someone types in your domain name, finding your NS Records is the first step. The NS Records are therefore a bit special. It’s all the other DNS Records (MX, CNAME, TXT, etc) that actually contain specific information for your website. They live on the nameservers that Nameserver Records point to. You may want to change your NS Records when moving or “pointing” a website to a new hosting provider. A Records directly link domain names (or subdomains) to their IP addresses. As such, they’re essential for a website to be sure it’s reachable. You usually manage your A record (along with other DNS Records) through the control panel of your domain registrar CNAME Records are used to set up alias URLs. If you own both exampledomain.com and blog.exampledomain.com, for instance, a CNAME Records are there to point one to the other. MX Records are all about email. They specify which mail servers handle messages for the domain. That is to say, they tell other email systems where to deliver messages, like the postbox for your email. If you use an app like Outlook with your own domain’s email, the MX Records point to the mail servers provided by your email hosting company. If you have POP3 Email in your browser, the MX Records point to their mail servers. Last but not least, TXT Records are there to offer extra room for information about your domain. This text-based info might range from verification codes to general notes for domain management. Lastly, TXT Records offer extra space for information about your domain, ranging from verification codes to general notes for domain management. TXT Records can also verify you’re the rightful
Names That Click: How to Choose the Right Domain Name
Choosing the right domain name is one of the fundamentals for online success. It’s the first thing many people see about your brand — and may even help to define it. The right choice is bound to make a big impact. But while buying a domain name can be surprisingly cheap and easy, it’s a challenge to up sticks and move home later on. That’s why it’s so important to get it right from the start. In this guide, we’ll go through some practical tips on how to pick a domain name that’s smart, affordable, and sure to make a lasting impression. What is a domain name? To start with the basics, a domain name is a specific address that you enter into a web browser to visit a website. Every website has its own special domain name — much like any house in the street has its own postcode. Each domain consists of three main parts: the subdomain, the second-level domain, and the top-level domain (TLD) or domain extension. Looking at www.123-Reg.co.uk, for example, that’s the “www” prefix, the unique name in the middle, and the “.co.uk” suffix at the end. So, what’s a URL? Well, web addresses and URLs are basically the same but, strictly speaking, the URL includes a protocol (like “HTTPS”) at the beginning. Forward slashes are then used to create more subdirectories or paths. But that’s more than enough detail, for now. Here’s a quick breakdown of what a URL — that is to say, a full web address — is made up of: You’ll have noticed that a lot of websites have “www” at the start. This is the most common subdomain out there. The same age as Taylor Swift and at least equally as famous, we think you know what it stands for. You may be surprised to learn, though, that it’s used by only around 50% of websites online today. For the most part, subdomains are there to help us make sense of navigation. They are used to set up specific sections within websites. For example, an online store can use a subdomain like “shop.something.com”, while a blog could be set up on “blog.something.com”. Similarly, a mobile-friendly version of website might exist on “m.something.com”. The heart of a domain name is the second-level domain. This is the juicy core of the web address, acting as a unique identifier for the site. It’s what most people will remember and associate with a web address. More often than not, the second-level domain reflects the brand name itself. For example, the “123-Reg” part of www.123-Reg.co.uk. Last but not least, the top-level domain (TLD) or domain extension, such as “.com”, sits at the end of the address. The extension is really important because it gives users an idea about the type of website they’re visiting. Along with the second-level domain, the TLD is the main thing you’ll need to think about when choosing a domain name. What is a domain registrar? A Domain Registry is the organisation that manages and maintains the records for specific top-level domains. For example, Nominet is the official registry for .UK domains, while VeriSign is the official registry for .com and .net domains. A Domain Registrar is an organisation that sells domain names to the general public. Much like buying chocolate, you wouldn’t approach the manufacturer themselves but rather an approved dealer like a supermarket or newsagent. A registrar must be accredited by a domain registry before it can sell their TLDs. Every time a registrar makes a sale, they then pay a fee to the appropriate registry. So, you can also transfer your domain to a different registrar, but you can’t transfer a domain on the registry! Finally, the Domain Registrant is the entity (an individual or company) that has registered a domain name. If a registrant makes any changes to the records for their domain, the registrar will then notify the appropriate registry so that their records are kept up-to-date. Learn more about transferring your domain to 123 Reg How to choose a domain name What’s in a name? A rose by any other name would smell as sweet. Right? Well, Shakespeare wasn’t aiming to establish a successful online presence in 2024. One leaf to take out of the Bard’s book, however, is to have an awareness of how words and letters can affect an audience. Your domain is your online signature. And with that, here are our top tips for choosing the right one. There are more than 350 million registered domain names out there today, according to the 2023 Domain Name Industry Brief Report. With new domain names registered at a rate of around 1 million each month, that total is expected to rise to over 550 million by 2026. As we’ll explore, the right choice of website address can have a huge impact. The most recognised extensions (gTLDs) include “.com”, “.org”, and “.net”. There’s also the major country code extensions, such as “.fr” or “.jp”. In recent years, there’s been an explosion of new, weird and wonderful choices, like “.fun”, “.club”, “.london” or “.fit”. It’s a good strategy to choose a clever matching combo. Here’s our advice on choosing the right domain name for you: ➤ Keep it short and sweet You want a domain name that’s easy to remember, say, and type. It should be straightforward and give potential visitors an idea of what your website is about. A domain that people can easily shout out will help with word-of-mouth recommendations and make it more likely for visitors to return to your site. 15 characters should be about the upper limit in most cases. But less is more. Avoid words that are prone to being misspelled, as well as hyphens or awkward sets of numbers. Special characters aren’t an option when choosing domain names (and that’s a good thing). ➤ Be on brand Try to find a brandable domain name. For many start-ups and small business owners just getting the ball rolling, it can