Domain name

A domain name is a unique, user-friendly address used to identify and locate a website on the Internet. It consists of a string of characters, usually representing the name of a company, organisation or entity, followed by a domain extension (e.g. .com, .org, .net, .fr).

The domain name is used to translate the numerical IP addresses of servers into names that are easy for users to remember and type. Rather than memorising series of numbers, users can access a website by simply typing its domain name into the browser address bar.

Domain names are registered with accredited domain name registrars, who maintain databases of domain names and associated information. Domain names can be purchased for specific periods of time, usually ranging from one year to several years, and must be renewed periodically to maintain their validity.

In addition to representing websites, domain names can also be used for e-mail addresses and other online services.