Archive for category: Domain Names

Why are .security Domain Names More Expensive Than Other Top-Level Domains?

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Why are .security Domain Names More Expensive Than Other Top-Level Domains? 2

If you've ever browsed for a domain name, you've likely noticed a significant price difference between extensions like .com or .org and newer, more specialized ones like .security. While a standard .com might cost you around $10-$20 a year, a .security domain could easily run into hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually. What gives?

It's not just about exclusivity; several key factors contribute to the higher price tag of .security and other niche Top-Level Domains (TLDs).

1. The Registry Sets the Wholesale Price

Every TLD is managed by a central registry, which is an organization appointed by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) to administer that specific domain extension. This registry is responsible for setting the wholesale price that domain registrars (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.) must pay to acquire and offer domains under that TLD.

For .security, the registry has made a strategic decision to position it as a premium, high-value TLD. This isn't a casual choice; it reflects the intended audience and the perceived importance of the “security” keyword.

2. Targeting a Niche, High-Value Market

The .security TLD is designed for businesses, organizations, and individuals operating specifically within the cybersecurity industry. This includes:

  • Security software companies
  • Cybersecurity consultants
  • Security research firms
  • Financial institutions with robust security offerings
  • Government agencies focused on national security

For these entities, a .security domain name isn't just a web address; it's a powerful statement of their specialization and commitment to security. It instantly conveys trust and authority, which is highly valuable in a sector where credibility is paramount. The registry understands this value proposition and prices the domains accordingly.

3. Reduced Speculation and Abuse

By setting a higher price point, the .security registry also aims to deter domain squatting and abuse. When domains are very cheap, they become attractive targets for speculators who register many names hoping to sell them at a profit, or for malicious actors looking to use them for phishing, scams, or other illicit activities.

A higher barrier to entry means that primarily legitimate entities with a genuine need for a .security domain will be willing to pay the price. This helps maintain the integrity and reputation of the TLD, further enhancing its value for those who do invest in it.

4. Enhanced Trust and Brand Identity

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, having a domain that instantly signals “security” can be a significant competitive advantage. For a company offering cybersecurity solutions, a domain like yourcompany.security immediately tells visitors what you're about and reinforces your brand's core mission. This level of immediate trust and brand recognition is worth a premium.

5. Operating Costs and Infrastructure

While the specific details are proprietary, running a specialized TLD like .security can involve significant operational costs. This includes maintaining robust infrastructure, implementing strict security protocols for the domain itself (to prevent it from being compromised), and potentially offering enhanced support to a more discerning clientele. These costs are naturally factored into the pricing.

The Bottom Line: Value Over Volume

Unlike .com, which aims for widespread adoption and a lower individual price point, the .security TLD focuses on delivering a high-value, highly relevant, and trustworthy online identity to a specific and important industry. The higher cost reflects this strategic positioning, aiming for quality registrants over sheer volume.

So, while the price tag for a .security domain might initially seem startling, it's a reflection of its specialized nature, the trust it instills, and the strategic market it serves. For businesses where cybersecurity is their core offering, it's an investment in their brand's credibility and a clear signal to their audience.

Yes, Your Business Email Should Match Your Website

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Email

Having a business email address is essential for any business that wants to appear professional and organized. Using a business email address with your domain name will provide many advantages that will benefit your business.

First, having a professional business address shows potential customers that you take your business seriously. It also gives them the impression that you are an established and credible business. Having a business email address with your domain name will make it easier for customers to remember and trust your business.

Second, having a business email address with your domain name will help to increase your brand recognition. When customers receive emails from you, they will be able to easily recognize your brand and associate it with your website and other online properties. This will help to solidify your online presence and increase your chances of gaining customers.

Third, a business email address with your domain name can be used to create customized email signatures. This will help to create a consistent and professional look for all your emails. This will also make it easier for customers to contact you and provide them with all the information they need, such as your contact number, business address and website.

Fourth, having a business email address with your domain name will also help to improve your online security. You will be able to keep your emails safe from hackers and other malicious actors by using secure email protocols. This will help to protect your customers’ data and keep your business safe.

Finally, having a business email address with your domain name can help to improve your customer service. When customers send emails to you, they will be able to get a response quickly and easily. This will help to build trust with your customers and ensure that they remain loyal to your business.

Overall, having a business email address with your domain name will help to make your business appear more professional, increase your brand recognition, improve your online security, and improve your customer service. These are just some of the many benefits that you can enjoy from using a business email address with your domain name.

Do You Own – and Control Your Domain Name? You May Be Surprised!

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domain name

When you register a domain name, you may think that you own it outright. However, this is not always the case. When you register a domain name, you are actually entering into a contract with the domain registrar. This contract gives you the right to use the domain name for a certain period of time, but it does not necessarily give you ownership of the domain name.

The only way to truly own your domain name is to register it in your own name and to use your own personal information when registering the domain name. If you register your domain name through a web developer, hosting company, or other third party, they may register the domain name in their own name and use their own personal information. This means that they will legally own the domain name, even if you are the one who pays for it and uses it.

If you do not own your domain name, you may be at risk of losing it. If the third party who owns your domain name decides to cancel your account or to transfer the domain name to someone else, you will have no legal recourse.

To avoid this problem, it is important to make sure that you own your domain name. You can do this by registering the domain name in your own name and by using your own personal information when registering the domain name. You should also keep a copy of your domain name registration confirmation and your domain name transfer authorization code.

Here are some tips for ensuring that you own and control your domain name:

  • Register your domain name in your own name and use your own personal information when registering the domain name.
  • Keep a copy of your domain name registration confirmation and your domain name transfer authorization code.
  • If you register your domain name through a web developer, hosting company, or other third party, make sure that they will transfer the domain name to you upon request.
  • Monitor your domain name registration information regularly to make sure that it is accurate and up-to-date.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you own and control your domain name and that you will not lose it in the future.

Do Trademarks Always Trump Domain Names? Not Always

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trademarks

Trademarks and domain names are two different types of intellectual property. Trademarks are words, phrases, symbols, or designs that are used to identify the source of goods or services. Domain names are the addresses of websites on the internet.

In general, trademarks have priority over domain names. This means that if someone owns a trademark, they have the right to prevent others from using that trademark in their domain name. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

One exception is if the domain name is used in good faith and for a non-commercial purpose. For example, if someone uses a trademark in their domain name to create a fan website for a company, this is generally considered to be fair use and the trademark owner cannot prevent them from using the domain name.

Another exception is if the domain name was registered before the trademark was registered. For example, if someone registers the domain name “amazon.com” in 1990, and then Amazon registers the trademark “Amazon” in 1995, the domain name owner would still be able to use the domain name.

Finally, trademarks can also be lost if they are not used. If a trademark owner does not use their trademark for a period of time, they may lose the right to enforce their trademark against others. This means that someone could register a domain name that includes the trademark and use it without permission from the trademark owner.

If you are unsure whether you can use a trademark in your domain name, it is best to consult with an attorney.

Here are some examples of cases where trademarks have not trumped domain names:

  • In 2008, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in favor of a company called Toys “R” Us that used the domain name “toysrus.com” without permission from the owner of the trademark “Toys “R” Us.” The Court found that the use of the domain name was fair use because it was used in good faith and for a non-commercial purpose.
  • In 2011, the United States Patent and Trademark Office ruled that a company called Google could use the domain name “chrome.com” without permission from the owner of the trademark “Chrome.” The Office found that the use of the domain name was descriptive and not likely to cause confusion among consumers.

These cases show that trademarks do not always trump domain names. There are a few exceptions to the general rule that trademarks have priority over domain names. If you are unsure whether you can use a trademark in your domain name, it is best to consult with an attorney.

What is the difference between public and private domain name registration?

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What is the difference between public and private domain name registration?

Per the registrar agreement with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the contact and registrant information listed for your domain name must be made public. Using false information is a violation and can lead to the termination of your domain name registration.

However, most people do not want their personal contact information (name, address, email address, and phone number) made public in the Whois database.  And, the SPAM, nobody wants that.  Most people start getting SPAM within minutes of public registration.

That's where Private Registration services come in!

When you purchase Private Registration services, the Whois database lists a generic name, mailing address, and phone number instead of your personal contact information. There's also a private unique email address for your domain name — you decide to have any arriving email forwarded, filtered for spam, or not forwarded at all.

Although the listed registrant of your domain name is generic on the Whois database, you retain FULL CONTROL over your domain name. You can:

  • Cancel, sell, or renew your domain name
  • Control the content for your website
  • Set the nameservers for your domain name
  • Update your underlying domain name contact information
  • Resolve any and all disputes involving your domain name

Private Registration provides a variety of benefits! It helps you:

  • Protect your identity
  • Stop domain name-related spam
  • Thwart harassers and stalkers
  • End data mining
  • Maintain personal and family privacy
  • Prevent your domain from being hijacked
  • Shield legitimate entrepreneurial business endeavors
  • Voice political and other First Amendment speech

You may not use private domain name services for spamming, violating the law, or engaging in morally objectionable activities. Violating these policies will result in service cancellation.

Register your domain name at MyInternetWebSite.com and select Private Registration!

Domain Registration – Everything you need without the extra cost!

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Domain Registration

When you register your domain name through MyInternetWebSite.com, each and every domain name comes with all you need to get online – all at no additional charge!  You don't have to pay more to get more!

  • Domain Forwarding and Masking: Direct any domain name you own to your website. Anyone who types that domain name into their browser is taken directly to your website.
  • Domain Locking: Domain locking prevents accidental or intentional transfers of domain ownership and stops anyone from redirecting your nameservers.
  • Total DNS Control: Manage your domain nameserver (DNS) records and set your email, FTP, sub-domains and website location all from one control panel.
  • Change of Registration: Assign your domain name to someone else or change the contacts for your domain online anytime.
  • Status Alerts: Monitor the status of your domain and get instant alerts if there’s been a change.
  • Auto Renew Protection: No need to watch expiration dates to make sure you renew on time! Auto renew keeps your domains, hosting, website builders, and other products in your name and under your control.

Register A New Domain Now

Understanding Private Domain Registration

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What is the difference between public and private domain name registration?

Per your registrar agreement with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the contact and registrant information listed for your domain name must be made public. Using false information is a violation and can lead to the termination of your domain name registration.

Registrars, such as MyInternetWebsite.com, understand most people do not want their personal contact information (name, address, email address, and phone number) made public in the Whois database. That’s why MyInternetWebsite.com offers Private Registration services.

When you purchase Private Registration services at MyInternetWebsite.com, the Whois database lists a generic name, mailing address, and phone number instead of your personal contact information. They also create a private unique email address for your domain name — you decide to have any arriving email forwarded, filtered for spam, or not forwarded at all.

Although the listed registrant of your domain name is generic on the Whois database, you retain FULL CONTROL over your domain name. You can:

  • Cancel, sell, or renew your domain name
  • Control the content for your website
  • Set the nameservers for your domain name
  • Update your underlying domain name contact information
  • Resolve any and all disputes involving your domain name

Private Registration provides a variety of benefits! It helps you:

  • Protect your identity
  • Stop domain name-related spam
  • Thwart harassers and stalkers
  • End data mining
  • Maintain personal and family privacy
  • Prevent your domain from being hijacked
  • Shield legitimate entrepreneurial business endeavors
  • Voice political and other First Amendment speech

All of this is available for just a few dollars a year!

Registering Domain Names

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Registering a domain name builds your credibility on the Internet. Use domain names to support your business and assist in creating a dynamic online presence. Your domain name establishes your online identity and increases branding, marketing and communication opportunities. Register multiple domain names to:

  • Keep your competition from registering a domain name that draws customers away from you.
  • Promote the products and services you offer.
  • Drive more traffic to your website.
  • Enjoy more opportunities to market to — and be listed on — search engines.
  • Create distinct advertising strategies to reach different target markets.
  • Provide customers more ways to find you on the Internet.
  • Capture common misspellings of your domain name, instead of sending visitors to an error page.
  • Protect your brand and online identity from unsavory parties.

To get started, check to see if the domain name you want is available. If available, register the domain name for a period of time you specify during the checkout process.

To Check a Domain Name's Availability

  1. Go to http://myinternetwebsite.com .
  2. In the Domain Name Search field, enter the domain name you want to register, and then select the domain name extension (such as .com or .net) from the list.
  3. Click GO.

If the domain name you requested is already registered, you will see available alternatives. For example, you might be able to select a .info or .ws domain extension, rather than .com.  You could register www.coolexample.info instead of www.coolexample.com.

If the domain name is available, follow the instructions to complete the checkout process. Be sure to include valid contact information for each contact. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the governing body for domain names, requires valid contact information (registrant, technical, billing, and administrative). If you enter false information, your domain name can be canceled.

Your contact information is public and accessible through the Whois database at most registrars. However, you can protect your privacy by registering your domain name with us using our private domain name registration services.

We highly recommend using private registration to hide your contact information from spammers and scammers.

When you purchase private domain name registration, the Whois database lists the name of our privacy affiliate company, as well as their postal address and phone number — instead of your personal contact information.

WHOIS Masking Starts January 25, 2018

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This service will block some of your contact details through automated access points.

We're always looking for ways to protect your information online. To help slow the flood of spam that can occur when you register a domain without privacy services, WHOIS masking of certain personal data will be turned on for all domains on January 25.

This service will limit a potential spammer's ability to access your first name, last name, email and phone number through automated means (also known as Port 43 access). We'll continue to publish full WHOIS details to users of our CAPTCHA-protected, web-based WHOIS system, as required.

Domain Privacy still matters.

While we hope this service will help cut down on spam calls and emails, because registration information is still made available publicly, Domain Privacy is still the best way to maintain anonymity online. WHOIS masking will only restrict spammers through automated bulk access sources.

Masking contact information shared via WHOIS automated access points

All ICANN accredited registrars (such as MyInternetWebSite.com) are required to provide WHOIS Look-up access to the public. (WHOIS is a mechanism to look up the contact information associated with your domain name.)

MyInternetWebSite.com supports both individualized lookups (via secureserver.net/whois) and automated bulk lookup requests (also known as Port 43 access). There are several legitimate users of bulk WHOIS data, but we also have bad actors misusing this to spam our customers.

Starting January 25, 2018, MyInternetWebSite.com will begin masking (blocking) the Registrant name, phone and email on all bulk WHOIS requests from unauthorized sources. Legitimate users already approved through the MyInternetWebSite.com Port43 Process will continue to receive unmasked contact info. This is being done to protect your info, and reduce chances of spammers getting ahold of your data.

While the intent of this service is to help reduce spam calls and emails, Domain Privacy is still the best and most efficient way to maintain anonymity online. WHOIS masking will only restrict spammers misusing our automated bulk access sources.

If you prefer to keep your domain information unmasked, you can opt out at any time using one of the options below:

  • Contact our Customer Care Center
  • Send a written request to port43@secureserver.net from your email of record. Additional information may be requested through this channel for verification purposes.

Note: If you are sending a written request, please review the following details to help expedite your request:

  • Email request must come from the email associated with your account (email of record)
  • Please use Subject Line: Opt-out of WHOIS masking
  • In the Body of the email, please provide the following:
    • Customer Number(s)
    • “I certify and understand that by opting out of Port 43 masking, I approve of MyInternetWebSite.com continuing to provide the Name, Email and Phone number associated with all domains related to the Customer Number(s) provided.”

Note: Your customer number can be found if you click on your name in the top right corner when you are logged into your MyInternetWebSite.com account, and the email of record can be found on the Account Settings menu under My Profile.

It may take up to 24 hours to process the opt-out request.

.ME – The domain that’s all about YOU!

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image03064165133For business or fun — this domain has personality

Tell your story on the Internet with .ME — the Top-Level Domain that's all about you, your product, your world! Register your own name with a .ME extension and you have the ideal Web address for a personal blog, podcast or online portfolio. Promoting products or services to a young audience? Use a fun .ME domain for your niche website. Anyone can register these domains.

Use .ME for business:

  • Personalize your product or service for Internet-savvy Web consumers by launching a .ME Web site with your product name in it.
  • Protect your brand from competitors who might wish to take advantage of the name recognition generated by your popular .COM.

Or for yourself:

  • Carve out a place on the Internet that's all your own, including an email address with your .ME domain name in it!
  • Perfect for blogs, resumes, and personal pages.

Register a .ME Now

Can you register a trademark for a domain name?

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The answer is YES! Read this article by the Small Business Development Center to learn more.

read article

To search for and register your domain name, go to http://www.myinternetwebsite.com/

Understanding Domain Name Extensions

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A domain name is the text name that is corresponding to the numeric IP address of a computer on the Web. The web users access your website using your unique domain name. Domains can be registered through a number of registrars under various extensions such as .com, .org, and .net. You must check out various registrars, they may offer a wide variety of plans and prices.  We recommend that you use our service at http://www.MyInternetWebsite.com.

Often, there have been scams and rip-offs in the domain registration, so you need to be very careful. You should try to find a legitimate registrar. The legitimate web providers will charge a small surcharge for covering the labor to get the domain registered and set up on their server.

Choose Your Domain Name Wisely

“.com” is short form of ‘commercial’. ‘.Com’ is the most famous extension, and is an unrestricted global domain name. Most of the businesses prefer ‘.com’ mainly because it is a well recognized business presence on the Web. The availability of ‘.com’ names have reduced, so you can also consider the other extensions.

‘.Net’ is short form of ‘network’. This is an unrestricted global domain name that is commonly used by the internet service providers and businesses, which are directly involved in the infrastructure of the Web. You can select a ‘.net’ extension for internet websites.

‘.Org’ is another global popularity winning domain name extension that is used mostly by the non-commercial web sites or non-profit organizations. ‘.Biz’ is a fairly new extension, and is short form of ‘business.’ It is mostly used by the business related websites. .Biz offers a good chance for the businesses that are unwilling for compromising their URL, when the ‘.com’ extension is already taken.

‘.Info’ is short form of “information,” and it is an unrestricted domain name. ‘.Info’ can be used for resource-based websites and brochure sites designed for reaching a customer base with the information about the business. There are other extensions such as .us, .uk, .in, .aus, etc. These types of extensions are restricted use country codes that are used by an individual or organization within their particular country.

Domain name registration is important, easy, and a strategically significant first step in establishing an online presence for your business. A well-chosen domain name can benefit your business in many ways and, I believe, plays a role in your website's ranking on search engines.

Beware of Scam Domain Renewal Notices

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image09271215653Fake domain name renewal notices have been around for a long time.  They are usually received in the USPS mail about 90 days before a domain name's expiration date.   They look like authentic invoices and companies are fooled all the time.   The charge is usually around $75 which, oddly enough, is a lot more than a real registration.

Don't Be Fooled

You would think the higher amount would give people pause, but perhaps the higher amount makes it seem even more legitimate and urgent.   Today, I received one by email which is how legitimate domain registration companies send renewals.  It looked very believable.   Please keep an eye out for these scams.  If you receive any domain renewal notices and you aren't sure about the legitimacy, please send it to us–we'll tell you if it's real or not.

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