Domain names serve as human-readable labels that correspond to numerical IP addresses used by computers to identify each other on the Internet. Here’s how domain names work:
When a user enters a domain name (e.g., example.com) into a web browser, the browser sends a request to a Domain Name System (DNS) server. The DNS server translates the domain name into the corresponding IP address associated with the web server hosting that domain. This translation process allows the browser to establish a connection to the correct server and retrieve the requested web page or other content.
Domain names work through a hierarchical system managed by domain registrars and DNS servers. Each domain name consists of two main parts: the top-level domain (TLD), such as .com, .org, or .net, and the second-level domain (SLD), which is the unique name chosen by the domain owner (e.g., example in example.com).
Ownership of a domain name is determined by the entity or individual who registers it through a domain registrar. When you register a domain name, you typically do so for a specific period, commonly one year, but you can renew it periodically. The registrant retains ownership rights as long as they continue to renew the domain name registration and comply with registration requirements and policies set by the domain registrar and relevant authorities.
Domain names are not purchased forever; they are registered for a renewable period, usually ranging from one to ten years depending on the registrar and the domain name. To maintain ownership, registrants must renew their domain name registrations before they expire. If a domain name registration lapses and is not renewed within a specified grace period, it may become available for registration by others through the domain registrar.
Domain names are valuable digital assets that can be bought and sold on the open market. The market for domain names involves transactions where individuals, businesses, or organizations buy domain names from sellers or domain brokers. Prices for domain names can vary widely based on factors such as the desirability, length, and relevance of the domain name, as well as market demand and trends.
Domain names can be registered, managed, and transferred between registrants through domain registrars accredited by domain name registries. When a domain name is sold, ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer through a formal process facilitated by the registrar, ensuring that the domain name’s registration details and rights are accurately transferred.
