buying domain name

Don't get ripped off

Sounds a bit dramatic, but if you're paying $25 to $35 per year for your domain name you ARE being ripped off. You should never pay more than $10.

First, let me explain what you get when you buy a domain name. Basically, not much.

Your domain name is the .com, .org or .net address that defines your Internet Company. All the company that "hosts" your domain name is doing is giving you a way to make a few changes and sending you a bill. Great job if you can get it.

There are a lot of scams and bad business going on in the domain name game. Some of the most popular scams are:

	Over charging
	Threatening letters telling you need to pay them RIGHT NOW or you'll loose your name?
	Switching you without your permission (just like the telephone companies use to do)

Here's what I recommend when you're buying a domain name. First, do not host your domain name at register.con. In my opinion, they have the worst business practices on the Internet. By the way, I'm not the only one who thinks this way.

All that aside they charge too much $35 per year. If you're domain name is here you might consider moving it to another company.

The company we use is aitdomains.com another company I hear a lot about is godaddy.com; both charge $8.95 a year. That's almost 4 years for the price of one at Register.

[Stepping down from my soapbox]

Because of the huge demand for domain names, they decided to expand the offering with the .info, .us and so on. I still recommend to my clients that if you can find a .com, .org or .net name that works for you that's probably better that the new domains. Most people still think about .com when they are looking for a commercial website.

Another scam with domain registration is when someone else registers your name for you. Technically, they own your name.

Be sure you are listed as the "Administrative Contact" and have the login and password to your account. Then you can transfer your domain if things don't work out with your web hosting company.

If you need help registering and setting up your domain name, don't hesitate to give me a call (800) 606-1255.

Our team is dedicated to your success. Read some of our Internet success stories and see how we have helped other professionals meet and exceed their expectations.

If your ready to explore the options, please feel free to drop me a line or give me a call (800) 606-1255. My name is Dan Smith and I look forward to helping you build a great website.