Things to know to register a good domain name

First, make sure your domain name has not been registered by someone
else by doing a "whois" search. Most domain registration sites maintain
a whois database, but you canuse VeriSign.com .

Enter the domain name you want to check into the online form. Do not
enter "www."

Some "whois" search forms make you enter a code contained in an on-screen
graphic. This is to prevent overuse of the system by automated systems.
If you are asked for the code, enter it.

The results of the whois search will tell you if anyone already owns the
name. If the name is taken, you will have to select another one. If it is
unregistered, you can proceed.

Select a Domain Name Registrar. This is the company that will manage
the domain registration for you

Enter your desired Domain Name on your Registrar's web site.
Select the number of years you want to pay for. Paying for more than one
year in advance may save you a little money.

Enter your contact information. There are four types of contacts: the
registrant or owner, technical, billing, and administrative. You may
use the same name for all if you wish.

If your registrar offers you the option, select a private or public registration.
A private registration costs more, but will protect your identity and may
cut down on the amount of SPAM you receive.

Point your new domain to a Web server or "park" the domain. If you have not
yet built a Web site, you should park the name with the registrar. If you have
built a site, you must tell the registrar on which Web server the site is located.

This information is provided by your Web host.
At this point, you are probably done! It may take up to 4 to 8 hours for .com
and .net domains to become active and about 24-48 hours for other domain extensions.