What is a domain name?
A domain name, a series of textual characters that identifies a specific IP address, uniquely identifies a website on the Internet. Domain names locate businesses, organizations, or other entities on the Internet. Domain names are easy to remember, easy to type alternatives to obscure URL's that you receive with free website hosting services. Using a domain name allows you to receive more visitors, less bounced emails, and the chance to make a lasting impression on the Web.
Why and when were domain names introduced?
In the beginning there were IP addresses - long, cumbersome strings of numbers that represented computers on the Internet. You had to remember that a string of numbers, such as 199.6.46.3, would take you to a particular website. In 1984, a system was introduced known as DNS (Domain Name System), which translates easy to remember words and phrases (domain names) into IP addresses, saving us the trouble of memorizing all those numbers.
Do I need a domain name to have a website?
While a domain name is not necessary to have a website, it is recommended. Whether you are creating a family website or a business website, having a domain name allows your site to be more easily found and remembered.
I don't have a website yet, why should I register a domain now?
Domain names are going at the rate of more than 200,000 a month. Registering your domain name now ensures your ownership of the domain name that may not otherwise be available when you want it. Once registered, that domain name is yours (provided that the registration and renewal fees are paid each year). You can hold onto it, use it, sell it or lease it. MokiHost will store your domain name on our servers free of charge until you are ready to do something with it.
How can I find out if the domain name I want is still available?
MokiHost provides a domain name search engine that can instantly tell you whether or not the name is available. If a domain name is available, you will be given the option to register it. If a domain name is already registered, we offer the option to backorder the domain name, giving you a chance at purchasing it when it expires.
My domain is already taken! What should I do?
MokiHost has partnered with SnapNames, a leader in the domain name aftermarket, to offer you a domain name backorder service. If the domain name that you want is already registered, simply select the backorder option. Your domain name will be monitored and we will attempt to secure if for you as soon as it expires. Our backorder service saves you time and increases your odds of securing the domain name when it expires.
If you need a domain name right now, in addition to the backorder service, you could register alternate domains. Consider registering alternate domain name extensions, such as .cc, .to, .co.uk, .biz, .us, etc. Also, try variations of your name, including hyphens.
How can I find out more about country domains (ccTLDs)?
MokiHost offers a huge list of country and alternate domains. From Albania to Yugoslavia, we list them all!
What type of domain names can I register at MokiHost?
You can currently register .com, .net, .org, .biz, and .us domain names at MokiHost.
What characters are allowed in a domain name?
Regardless of the extension, all domain names must follow the same character rules... You can use letters (abc), numbers (123) and dashes/hyphens (---). Spaces are not allowed and the domain can't begin or end with a dash.
A little known fact is that you CAN have multiple dashes right next to each other. (e.g. domain--names.com) Opened up a few more possibilities?
I found a domain that has already expired - when can I register it?
In order for an existing domain name to be re-registered by anyone other than the current owner, it must be completely released by the Registry. Unfortunately, at the present time there is not a set schedule for releasing expired domain names. Most domains are released within a few months of their expiration. The best solution is to use our backorder service. As soon as the domain name is released, we will attempt to secure it for you. There is no risk with the backorder service as you only pay if we successfully secure the domain name for you.
How much does it cost to register a domain name?
Each domain name is also subject to an annual maintenance fee which varies depending on the domain/registry (see the registration form for full info).
Can I pay by means other than a credit card?
Yes, we use PayPal and all credit cards through the PayPal portal.
How long will it take to register my domain name?
Your domain name is registered in a matter of minutes, provided the registration form is filled out correctly.
How can I make sure my registration information is secure?
Your registration is submitted via our secure form. This form encrypts all of your registration information, ensuring the security of your transaction.
What do I get with my domain name registration?
Once MokiHost has successfully registered your domain name, we will then act as technical contact for your domain name as well as providing the required DNS servers on which to set up and store your domain name. With your domain registration, Standard plan or greater, you will receive free email forwarding and free URL forwarding. Email forwarding is an email address @ your domain name (e.g. bill@microsft.com) that automatically forwards to your existing email account. URL forwarding allows you to forward your new domain name to your existing website.
Once my domain name is registered, can anyone else take it?
Your domain name is registered in your name. So long as it has active DNS entries, all the required fees are paid and it's not in breach of any law, nobody else can either use it or take it without your consent.
What if I misspelled my domain name?
Be VERY careful when registering your domain name. Once you purchase your domain, the order is non-refundable.
How can I register a .in, .ca, or .mx domain through MokiHost?
MokiHost offers a huge list of country and alternate domains. From Albania to Yugoslavia, we list them all! Visit this section for more information on registering specific country extensions (ccTLD's).
