how to pick the perfect domain name

So you're thinking of starting a blog, a webpage, or even a business? Maybe a place to gush about the grandkids, or sell those lovely items you've been diligently crafting.

First things first, you'll need a domain name. What's that, you say, and where can I get one?

A domain name is like the sign hanging out front of a brick and mortar store. It tells people what your business is all about.

Best practices for picking your domain name

Pick a name that's easy to spell and avoid hyphens and numbers. Keep it relatively short and possibly use keywords that relate to your business.

A domain name is followed by an extension, such as .com or .org or .net. There are many TLDs (top level domains) these days, like .travel, and .photography, but for a business you'll most likely stick with .com.

A domain name must be registered.

Each domain name is unique, and before it can be used it must be registered, which makes the name yours and yours alone. They are not too pricey; a domain typically costs about $15 per year.

Be protective of your ideas.

My husband worked in the domain industry for many years. One thing he instilled in me was the importance of protecting your ideas.

For example, don't sit talking loudly to your coworkers in a restaurant over lunch about which name you are intending to purchase and how wonderful it is.

Someone at the next table (like my husband) might just go back to his office and register that name before you have finished your dessert!

Also, when you want to check whether that perfect name you've thought up is available, don't go checking for it on a registrar's website. Check for it at whois.net, where you can find a free and secure lookup database.

Just pull up their website, plug your domain name in the search bar and you will find out if it is available.

If so, head to a registrar's site such as Bluehost, which will provide two free domain names if you sign up with them for hosting.