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What
is the domain name system?
The
Domain Name System (DNS) helps users to find their way
around the Internet. Every computer on the Internet
has a unique address - just like a telephone number
- which is a rather complicated string of numbers. It
is called its "IP address" (IP stands for
"Internet Protocol"). IP Addresses are hard
to remember. The DNS makes using the Internet easier
by allowing a familiar string of letters (the "domain
name") to be used. So instead of typing 65.201.144.170,
you can type ftp.ekoo.com. It is a "mnemonic"
device that makes addresses easier to remember
What
does it mean to "register" a domain name?
When
you register a domain name, you are inserting an entry
into a directory of all the domain names and their corresponding
computers on the Internet.
How
do I register a domain name?
Domain
names ending with .biz, .com, .info, .name, .net or
.org can be registered through many different companies
(known as "registrars") that compete with
one another. The registrar you choose will ask you to
provide various contact and technical information that
makes up the registration. The registrar will then keep
records of the contact information and submit the technical
information to a central directory known as the "registry."
This registry provides other computers on the Internet
the information necessary to send you e-mail or to find
your web site. You will also be required to enter a
registration contract with the registrar, which sets
forth the terms under which your registration is accepted
and will be maintained.
How
long does a registration last? Can it be renewed?
Each
registrar has the flexibility to offer initial and renewal
registrations in one-year increments, with a total registration
period limit of ten years.
How
much does a domain-name registration name cost?
Each
registrar sets the price it charges for registering
names, and prices vary significantly among different
registrars. In addition, some registrars offer discounted
or free registration services in connection with other
offerings, such as web hosting. To see what offering
best meets your needs, you should go to the web sites
of several of the registrars listed in the Registrar
Directory on this site.
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