.info: Show What You Know
In a world overflowing with information, the .info domain cuts through the noise. The perfect space from which to inform, educate, and inspire. No need for confusing acronyms or letters — .info speaks for itself. Built-in relevance. It’s clear, simple, and instantly lets visitors know what your site is all about. What is .info? Say hello to .info, the original domain for websites that inform, educate, and share what you know. First launched back in 2001, it was one of the first “new” TLDs aimed to offer more choice beyond .co.uk and .com domains. With over four million .info domains registered, it’s an extension with staying power. Even in 2025, it holds its own against newer extensions. From day one, .info was built for clarity — letting people know, right away, that a site is about facts, insights, or expertise. It’s the perfect way to build trust in a crowded online space. It’s short, simple, and instantly recognisable. If you want a domain that says “Here’s everything you need to know” then .info might be the one. See also: What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)? Who uses the .info domain extension? Experts, academics and businesses — anyone who wants to share information. It’s a natural fit for educational content. Universities, research groups and e-learning platforms often use it to share clear, useful information. Some people think .info is only for wikis or reference sites. Not so! Most now see it as a credible, professional choice for any site that shares insights. Some of the world’s most trusted brands use .info to build trust and reach a wide audience. Subject experts use .info to share what they know and stand out in their field. It’s also a smart pick for infotainment blogs, fact-based projects or public resources. Can anyone buy a .info domain? Yep! The .info TLD is open to everyone. That’s in contrast with the .edu domain, which is only available to accredited educational institutions. So if you’re sharing knowledge but don’t qualify for .edu, .info gives you the freedom to publish, teach or inform — no red tape, just information. The only rules are your domain name must be between 1 and 63 characters, and you can’t use special characters like exclamation marks or emojis (as is the case with all domain names). Beyond that, .info is yours for the taking. Why buy a .info Domain? The pros of .info are clear. First off, it’s memorable. People instantly understand that your site is all about sharing information. It’s also more available than other TLDs like .com, meaning you’re more likely to secure the domain name you actually want. For those looking to share knowledge and establish authority, .info is the perfect choice. Even with the rise of new TLDs, .info is still going strong in 2025. Why? Because it’s clear, simple, and instantly lets visitors know what your site is all about. No need for confusing acronyms or cryptic names. The .info extension speaks for itself, giving you: ☐ Instant clarity – No need to explain what your site does. .info says it all. ☐ Strong SEO potential – That is, it’s one of the easier ones to find through search engines. After all, people search for “info” all the time. ☐ Greater availability – Unlike .com, you’re more likely to get the domain name you actually want. ☐ A perfect fit for experts – If you’re sharing insights, this is a domain that makes sense. If you’re building a site to share knowledge, establish credibility, or create a space for experts to connect, .info is a perfect fit. It helps make your site memorable and helps your audience know they’re in the right place for fact-based content. As for the cons, it’s true that .info isn’t as common as .com — but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can help you stand out more in a crowded digital space. How to get your own .info domain Start by thinking of a name that best reflects what you do and what you want to share. Once you’ve got it, head to 123 Reg, check if it’s available, and grab it in seconds. Need inspiration? Our domain search tool suggests ideas based on your keywords, helping you find the perfect .info domain — even if your first choice is taken. Not only that, but with 123 Reg, you can grab a .info domain right now for just 99p* for the first year. Search for your .info domain here to get started. Don’t wait too long though — good names can go fast. A quick search can save you from missing out, so go ahead and snag the domain you’ve got your eye on before someone else does. Is .info the right choice for you? You might be a subject matter expert, an educator, or simply someone with something really valuable to share online. The .info web address can work for any sort of site, from building a personal blog, to an online portfolio, or a resource-packed educational site. It’s a domain that helps you show what you know. And if you’re still on the fence, think about it this way: .info isn’t just a domain — it’s a chance to share your expertise with the world. It’s time to make that knowledge easy to find. Why not grab a domain today or start brainstorming your big idea? See also: Names That Click – How to Choose the Right Domain Name Wrap up With .info, you’re not just choosing a domain. You’re choosing a space to share your expertise and build trust. It’s simple, memorable, and designed to make your knowledge stand out. Ready to make your mark online? Get your own .info domain today and start sharing what you know. * First year only. Subsequent years will be charged at the then-applicable renewal rate. £0.15 ICANN fees and applicable taxes may apply. Excludes Premium Domains. Prices exclude VAT.
What is a Website, Anyway?
Imagine being a caveman plucked from prehistoric times and dropped into the modern world. Suddenly, you find yourself surrounded by shiny screens and glowing boxes, with people tapping away on them all day long. “What’s going on here?” you wonder. You soon realise these glowing boxes are the new campfire — a place to connect, learn, share ideas. But this isn’t about mammoth skins or swapping tales of hunting grounds. Everything’s happening online, and without your own space… well, like the only caveman without fire, you’re missing out big time. What is a website? A website is a digital space where people find information, connect with others, shop and learn. It’s a place to share ideas, tell stories or create something engaging. Specifically, a website is accessed through a browser, which is the software or app on your phone, computer or tablet that brings it to life. Websites have revolutionised the way we connect with others. Making it easier than ever to reach people far and wide, they let audiences discover what you’re all about and explore what you have to offer. This is also why they’re brilliant for business — helping you share your work, sell your products, and find success in ways that were once unimaginable. What Types of Website Are There? Lots! Just some of the most common types of websites include: Type of Website What It’s All About Landing Pages Single-page sites made for a campaign or product, designed to turn visitors into leads or customers. E-commerce Websites Where businesses sell their products or services directly online. Business Websites To show off what a company offers and pull in potential customers. Portfolio Websites Perfect for showing off creative work, whether you’re an artist, designer, or in a similar field. Blogs From ‘Web Log’ – spots to share stories, articles, or ideas. Nonprofit Websites All about sharing a cause, providing details, and encouraging donations or involvement. Educational Websites Hubs for learning, offering courses or resources for kids and adults alike. News Websites Places for the latest updates, articles, and coverage on what’s happening in the world. Government Websites Official sites offering services, resources, and information from local councils to national bodies. Social Media Websites Where people connect, share, and interact in the online world. Forum Websites Great for joining discussions, asking questions, or swapping tips in a community setting. Wiki Websites Spaces for collaborating on content—think encyclopaedias or user-driven knowledge hubs. The History of the Internet (in One Minute) In the early days, the internet was an experimental network connecting just a handful of computers. In 1969, ARPANET linked four machines across the US to share information. It wasn’t much at first — just basic messages and data-sharing — but it was the first step towards something special. In 1971, the invention of email allowed messages to be sent across this early network. By the 1970s, TCP/IP protocols were developed, acting like a system of phone numbers that let different networks communicate with each other. In the late 80s, British computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee introduced the World Wide Web. In 1989, he developed the concept of Hypertext, URLs, and the first web browser (also called WorldWideWeb). Berners-Lee also invented HTML, a coding language — or rather, a “markup” language — that gave pages structure and made it easier to create this new fangled “web” content. The Domain Name System (DNS) was developed to link easy-to-remember domain names (like www.123-reg.co.uk) to phone number-like IP Addresses that computers use to identify each other online. See also: What is DNS – How Websites Get Found Online The first website went live in 1991 at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), created to share information about the World Wide Web project. However, it wasn’t until 1994, with the release of the more user-friendly Netscape Navigator, that browsing began to go mainstream. Microsoft’s Internet Explorer came to dominate in the late-90s. Top-Level Domain “extensions” (TLDs) like .com and .co.uk were among the first to be introduced, sparking the domain name boom and shaping the internet’s commercial landscape. New and niche generic domain endings (gTLDs) were released to keep up with demand. Behind the scenes, various organisations emerged to manage the internet’s infrastructure. In 1998, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) was founded to oversee domain names and IP addresses worldwide. The Dot-Com Boom of the 90s was the internet’s big bang, with businesses rushing to establish an online presence and investors throwing money at nearly every startup with a “dot com” in its name. When the boom became a bubble in 2000, many companies faced collapse, but the dust eventually settled, paving the way for the internet we know today. Ecommerce revolutionised shopping forever. Search Engines changed the way we access information — with Google surpassing Yahoo! in the early 2000s, and remaining the world’s most popular search provider ever since. Over the next decade, Broadband brought faster speeds. Smartphones arrived and 3G Networks enabled faster mobile internet, making it possible to stay connected on the go. By 2012, mobile devices accounted for around 10% of internet traffic. Today, smartphones and tablets account for over 60%. Online Banking allowed people to manage their money from the comfort of their sofa. Illegal file sharing upended the music, film, and publishing industries. Cloud Computing transformed how we store and access data. Social Media Platforms, Dating Websites, and countless other services became part of daily life. Privacy and Safety Concerns grew. Then came the explosion of Apps, the rise of Social Media Influencers, and, how could we forget, internet Memes. Online Shopping went from strength to strength. Google acquired YouTube. Bitcoin went mainstream. TikTok overtook FaceBook. Musk bought Twitter. And, with AI on the verge of shaking the whole thing up again, here we are… See also: .com vs .co.uk – Which Domain is Best for Your British Business? How Do Websites Work? Websites are made up of files stored on servers that can be viewed
.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
Ditch the Desk: How to Become a Digital Nomad
How does this sound: sipping espresso at a café in Milan one week, lounging at a beachside bar in Bali the next, perhaps a few days in Singapore after that — all the while with your trusty laptop, earning on the go and working to your productive best. If only life were this simple! Too often, little things like dodgy Wi-Fi (and paying taxes) make for a different reality. Yet, with the right set of online tools and a certain kind of mindset, the digital nomad thing could work for you. Digital platforms can bridge the gap between work and wanderlust, keeping your workflow uninterrupted no matter where you’ve set up office. What is a digital nomad? l How digital nomads make money l Is the digital nomad lifestyle right for you? l Best places to be a digital nomad l Top Digital Nomad Visas l Navigating taxes l Making your plan l After arrival What is a digital nomad? The ability to make a living online has opened up new possibilities. This shift towards a more flexible work environment has been a boon for adventurous remote workers, offering the opportunity to work from just about anywhere. ‘Digital Nomad’ was added to the Oxford Dictionary in 2020, defined as “a person who earns a living working online in different locations that they choose for themselves.” Working as you travel, not tied to any single location — it’s a lifestyle choice as much as anything. To succeed, you’ll be reliant on technology and the internet to stay connected and productive no matter where in the world you are. The global digital nomad population is now estimated to be around 35 million, with most aged between 25 to 44 years. Nevertheless, around a quarter of self-described digital nomads are over the age of 40.¹ ❝The global digital nomad population is now estimated to be around 35 million❞ And this new craze isn’t going away. The UK now has the second highest proportion of digital nomads (12%) after the USA (37%), with Germany a distant third (5.6%).¹ The digital nomad community is diverse and there’s a near-even split between genders. So what’s the difference between being a digital nomad and just working abroad? One key part of it is that most digital nomads spend less than four months in any one location. This isn’t a coincidence. Rightly or wrongly, many are working while on tourist visas that last 30 to 90 days. They should, therefore, still be paying tax back home. More on that later. Excitingly, the last few years have given rise to ‘digital nomad visas’. Valid for a full 12 months, these visas offer the chance to stay medium-long term, blending the flexibility of remote worker travel with the stability of traditional work. Almost 60 countries (and counting) now offer visas like these — and we’ll list a few of the best! How do digital nomads make money? According to Flatio’s Digital Nomad Report, the majority earn between €10-50k annually. Two-thirds of those respondents said that they pay tax back to their home country. There are essentially three main ways to make money remotely online: (1) as a remote employee, (2) freelancing, or (3) running your own business. Here are just a few of the most popular choices: Remote Employees Web Design: Creating and designing websites for clients globally.Programmers/Software Engineers: Building and maintaining software appsWriting/Editing: Producing written content for blogs, websites, and publicationsSocial Media Content: Managing social media accounts and strategies for businessesGraphic Design: Designing visual content for digital marketing, branding, or product designVirtual Assistance/Remote Customer Service: Offering technical or customer service support, whether that’s B2B or B2CFreelance Consultancy: Offering expert advice in your field of expertise, such as marketing, finance, or IT. It’s especially important for digital nomads to have strong portfolios to showcase skills and projects (and to prove you’re working, not at the beach!) Don’t forget to keep your LinkedIn and other career site profiles/CVs up to date. See also: Portfolio Websites for Creatives Freelancers, Side Hustlers Freelancing is well-suited to the digital nomad lifestyle. Many of the careers listed above are options for going it alone as a freelancer. With smart side hustles, you can add further income streams. Other ways of making money online include: Affiliate marketing: Earning commissions by promoting products Selling digital products: eBooks, courses, or stock photographyTeachers/Tutors: Teaching languages, academic subjects, or skillsVloggers/Youtubers: Creating and sharing video contentBloggers: Crafting written content to inform, educate, entertainInfluencers: As with bloggers, they might endorse brands and products, or perhaps sell ad space See also: 10 Passive Income Streams to Unlock Financial Freedom and How to Build Your Side Hustle on a Budget Online Business Owners Starting an online business is a great fit for the digital nomad lifestyle, offering the freedom to work on your own terms. This flexibility means you can adjust your business to match your needs, growing your range of products or services as you move around the world. Dropshipping to order (holding no stock) is one way to reach customers worldwide right from the get go. Selling digital products is also popular choices that allow entrepreneurs to set their own hours and work from anywhere. As your business grows, it’s possible to grow without being held back by physical space. See also: The 2024 Guide to Starting an Online Business Is the digital nomad lifestyle the right choice for you? Digital nomads often report high levels of satisfaction when it comes to work-life balance. Much of that can surely be attributed to the flexibility and autonomy the lifestyle affords. There are both good and bad points, though. Digital nomadism isn’t for everyone. Recent statistics suggest many of those who tried it post-pandemic have since returned home. This could be down to shifting policies — some bosses have ordered return-to-office mandates, for example. Brexit is another factor: us Brits abroad used to be able to live and work in the EU visa-free. Now, we need to clear off after 90 days (like Americans do). Nevertheless, the
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
2024 Guide to Starting an Online Business
Launching an online business has never been easier. You can do it without big upfront funding and there’s no need for serious tech skills. With the flexibility to set your own schedule and call all the shots, this is an opportunity to be your own boss. With just a little clever strategy it’s possible to reach a huge audience right from the get-go. Whether you’re looking for a gentle income stream on the side — or dreaming of a worldwide e-commerce empire — anything’s possible. With that, here’s our guide to starting an online business in 2024. Why start an online business in 2024? | Come up with your business idea | Choose your business model | What type of entrepreneur are you? | Conduct market research | Write the business plan | Get the funding | Register your business | Manage your accounts | Buy the domain name | Choose your online platform | Set up shop | Start taking payments | Build your online presence Why start an online business in 2024? Building an online business is a great chance to do something rewarding — in more ways than one. To start with the obvious, the entry barrier is often very low. Online ventures tend to come with minimal start-up costs, compared to a bricks-and-mortar business, saving money on rent, utilities, and other associated start-up expenses. It’s a way to get a foot in the business door without reaching deep into your wallet. For those who do already have a physical shop, going online offers a great way to increase revenue and expand, reaching new avenues and wider audiences. You have the flexibility. As the customer base grows, you can expand operations without the constraints of physical space. You have the power to map your online business to fit exactly what you need. Whether you’re starting small with a niche product or dreaming big with a diverse range, you can up the size and complexity as you go along. You needn’t be a tech wizard. With so many user-friendly platforms and handy tools out there, it’s possible to set up shop with only limited tech skills. Good website builders provide templates that make it utterly easy to launch a professional-looking website in minutes — then manage stock and update pages daily. If you’d prefer instant access to customers, you might try the existing marketplaces of Etsy, eBay, and others. And there’s never been a better time to start. In fact, the UK now boasts the world’s third largest e-commerce market in the world after China and the US. Online sales account for more than a third of the total retail market in the UK, in spite of what’s going on with the economy. Online sales even increased by 36% last year. By 2025, the total domestic revenue from e-commerce is predicted to be worth £230 billion. So, if you’ve got something to share with the world, 2024 is the time to make your mark. Finally, did we mention you can do it all from home in your pyjamas? Come up with that business idea So you’ve decided to start an online business. Exciting! The first step is to define your business idea. It’s about turning that spark of inspiration into a clear, actionable concept. There are several key things to think about — to guide your thought process and to help shape this vision into something tangible and viable. First, consider the scale and commitment of the business venture. Are you looking to start a side-gig to complement your lifestyle and income, or are you aiming for a full-time enterprise that’ll become a primary focus? Think about the core of your business: the product or service you want to offer. This is where your passion meets market demand. Is there a specific product or service you are passionate about or have expertise in? Define the niche. Pinpoint a specific market segment and, instead of trying to serve everyone, focus on a particular group with shared interests. Tailor your products or services to meet their preferences. This approach helps your business stand out and builds stronger connections with loyal customers. Identify your passions and market gaps to find your niche effectively. How well does the business idea align with your skills and experience? Will you need additional training or partnerships? A business idea that fits your strengths and areas of expertise is more likely to take off. Choose your business model There are four primary business models in e-commerce lingo. Those are: Business-to-Business (B2B), when a businesses sell products or services to other businesses. When it comes to wholesale, a B2B might act as intermediary in a supply chain, purchasing goods in bulk from manufacturers and selling them to retailers or other businesses. Business-to-Consumer (B2C), where a businesses sells direct to consumers. This is the biggest e-commerce business model there is — whenever we make an online purchase as an individual customer, we’re engaged in the B2C model. Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C), when consumers sell goods or services to each other through an intermediary platform. Casual and occasional selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace would fall into this category. Consumer-to-Business (C2B), when consumers provide services to businesses. Switching around the B2C idea, this one is a bit oddly named, as it typically refers to freelancers selling to businesses. For example, getting paid to upload photography to Shutterstock. Decide: What type of entrepreneur are you? Think about what you love and what you’re good at to find a business model that fits. Understanding the dynamics can help you position your business and work out your opportunities. Whether you decide to go wholesale and manage stock yourself, or to “dropship” orders straight from supplier to customer, the choice should reflect your strengths and market positioning. Think about your Value Delivery Method. That’s a posh way of asking how you’ll meet the needs of consumers. This choice goes beyond logistics; it shapes the entire approach to bringing value. Each type of business has its unique set of