On a basic level, domain names are important because the Internet’s addressing scheme is not very effective without them.
Each computer on the Internet has an Internet protocol (IP) address: a unique string of four numbers separated by periods, such as 165.166.0.2. Since remembering the IP addresses of all of your favorite Web sites would be nearly impossible, a group of computer scientists created the domain name system to assign a unique name to each numeric IP address.
But domain names are much more than just a technical shortcut. A short, memorable domain name can make the difference between creating a successful Web presence and getting lost in cyberspace.
A domain name adds credibility to your small business.
aving your own domain name makes your company look professional. If you’re not willing to pay the money to register an appropriate domain name, why would consumers think you’d put any effort into creating valuable products or services?
A domain name says you’re forward-thinking.
aving your own domain name indicates you’re part of the Digital Revolution, and it implies that you’re up-to-date on emerging technologies
A domain name adds mobility to your Internet presence. Owning your own domain name lets you take that name with you if you transfer Web hosts or switch to your own in-house server.
The right domain name can attract walk-in business.
If you decide to register a domain name that matches the concept of your business (instead of your exact business name), you might draw Web surfers in search of that topic.
A domain name builds your brand.
ore than anything else, a domain name can increase awareness of your brand. If your domain name matches your company name, it reinforces your brand, making it easier for customers to remember and return.
The bottom line is that a good domain name can go a long way toward generating traffic to your Web site and building your reputation. That, in turn, will result in more customers and better sales.
