What is a domain name?

A domain name is a human-friendly address, sometimes called a URL or web address. It was created to make IP addresses (such as 104.215.148.63) more accessible and easier to remember.

Examples of domain names are focusedit.co.uk, gov.je, and microsoft.com.

What is the difference between a domain name and a website?

Domain names are sometimes confused with websites or website hosting services. You can register a domain name (such as focusedit.co.uk), but not have any website or email accounts associated with it. If you want a website linked to your domain name, then you will need to separately subscribe to a web hosting service. Likewise if you want any email mailboxes for your domain (such as support@focusedit.co.uk) then you will need to subscribe to an email hosting service such as Microsoft 365 Business.

Registering a domain name is a bit like buying an empty plot of land – it belongs to you, but it doesn’t have anything to offer. Having a website on that domain name is like building a shop on your plot, and having an email address is like installing a mailbox so you can receive mail.

How much do domain names cost?

Domain names are a subscription service, so need to be renewed. You can purchase multiple years at a time, but will be available for someone else to register if not renewed after the expiration date. The cost of the domain name depends upon the type of TLD (top level domain) you purchase. For example, purchasing a domain ending with .co.uk is considerably cheaper than one that ends with .je. Get in touch for a quote.