What is a Domain Name Registrar?

A domain name registrar is a company that is allowed to directly access and modify the database of domain names that have been registered up to the current date. The database itself is maintained by a non-profit organization called Internic. Domain name registration and the industry itself are monitored by ICANN, an organization that is responsible for certifying companies as registrars and handling domain names, IP addresses, and domain name extensions.

A domain name registrar is required to pay a fee to Network Solutions for every registered domain name. This is a fixed fee for everyone. Then, the registrar can decide what to charge clients that register with them for purpose of profits and promotion.

Where the rates were once fixed at $70 per every two-year period, now companies may charge whatever they wish. Some charge by the year; others offer many types of domain name packages ranging from one to even ten years in duration.

Benefits of Registering with an Accredited Domain Name Registrar

There are several main benefits of registering your Internet domain name with an accredited domain name registrar. One, you’ll often find cheaper domain name registration prices because the registrar is buying domain names directly. Some companies are able to offer domain name registration for as low as $8.95 per year or better. Then, there are others who offer a free year or two with the purchase of web hosting.

Two, you’ll know that you are registering your domain name with a reputable company. There are many "resellers" of domain names that are fly-by-night companies, and you might not be able to find them when it’s time to renew your domain name for the next term!

Three, you can benefit from the registrar accreditation itself. This reveals that the domain name registrar has been accredited by a federal government agency and is being monitored directly by Internic. By simply checking with these two agencies along with the Better Business Bureau, you can have peace of mind that you are buying from a real registrar, not a scam artist.

Use these tips to find a reputable domain name registrar. This will not only secure your domain name… it might also secure your entire online business for future years!

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