What is a Domain?

A domain is the globally unique address of your website on the internet. Instead of having to remember complicated IP addresses like 192.168.1.1, visitors simply enter your domain – for example yourbusiness.com.

How a domain works

Every domain is linked to an IP address. The DNS (Domain Name System) works like a phone book: It translates the entered domain name into the associated IP address and directs the visitor to the correct server.

Structure of a domain

• Third-level domain – www (optional, usually automatic)
• Second-level domain – yourname (the freely choosable part)
• Top-level domain (TLD) – .de, .com, .net, .org and many more

Example: www.yourname.com

Domain vs. Webspace vs. Hosting

Domain types

• Country code domains (ccTLD): .de, .at, .ch, .it, .fr
• Generic domains (gTLD): .com, .net, .org, .info
• New TLDs: .shop, .online, .app, .blog

What belongs to a domain?

• DNS settings (A records, CNAME, MX records)
• Forwarding and subdomains
• Domain protection and privacy options
• Owner change and transfer

Which domain suits whom?

• .com – International projects and global reach
• .de – Companies and individuals focused on Germany
• .net – Network and technology projects
• .org – Associations and non-profit organizations

More details can be found in the articles in the left navigation under Domains.