Domains are registered through the same cart as everything else, in more than 700 extensions. A domain can be bought on its own or added to a hosting order.
Finding a name
Use the domain search on the home page or in the cart. Type the name with or without the extension; the result tells you whether it is available, and the price for the number of years you choose. If the name is taken, try another extension rather than a longer name. A short name under a different extension usually reads better than a padded one under the popular extension.
Registrant details
A domain registration is a contract with the registry, not with us, and the registry requires a real registrant. The details on your account are used unless you give different ones. They must be correct and reachable:
- The registry can suspend a domain whose contact details are shown to be false.
- Some extensions send a verification e-mail to the registrant address that has to be clicked within a set number of days, or the domain is suspended.
- The e-mail address on the domain is also the address a future transfer may be confirmed from, so do not use an address at the domain itself.
Extensions with conditions
Some extensions are restricted: they require a presence in a country, a registered trade mark, a company registration or supporting documents. The requirement belongs to the registry, and we cannot register the name until it is satisfied. If a search shows an extension as available but the order needs paperwork, we will tell you on a ticket.
After you pay
The registration is sent to the registry once the invoice is paid. A new domain usually appears under Domains within minutes, with its expiry date. Two things are switched on by default and are worth checking:
- Auto-renew is on, so a renewal invoice is raised before the domain expires. Leave it on unless you have decided to let the name go.
- Registrar lock prevents the domain being transferred away without being unlocked first.
ID protection, where the registry allows it, keeps your personal details out of public WHOIS. It can be switched on and off from the domain's page.
Making it do something
A newly registered domain does not point anywhere yet. See Pointing a domain at your hosting for the two ways to connect it, and allow for propagation after any change.