A domain name registrar is a company or organization accredited to manage the reservation, registration and management of domain names. They act as an intermediary between individuals or businesses and what is known as global internet web infrastructure. Want to register a domain name for your business and website? You'll need a domain name registrar.

Registrars allow you to search for available domains, purchase them and then maintain their registration. They make it possible to check and be sure that your chosen domain name is unique and not already in use.

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They're also integral to the Domain Name System (DNS) — a hierarchical system that translates human-friendly domain names into IP addresses, so browsers can locate and access websites. Registrars manage the DNS records associated with each registered domain.

When it comes to your website and online business, a domain name is important to helping you to stand out and build a brand. Much like with your company or brand name, it will become something your customers trust and recognize. This makes it important to not only choose the right one but to make sure you choose and register it with a reputable domain name registrar, so you know it's yours for as long as you need it. You can't own a domain name permanently but a solid domain name registrar will make sure you can renew it easily every year, or according to other set renewal cycles, so that you have it for your business no matter what.

What do domain name registrars do?

• Domain registration: Registrars enable users to search for and register available domain names, ensuring each domain is unique and not already in use.​ Learn more about how to choose a domain name.

• DNS management: They provide tools to manage Domain Name System (DNS) settings, allowing users to connect their domain to websites, email services and other online platforms.​

• WHOIS database maintenance: Registrars maintain records of domain ownership, including contact information, accessible through the WHOIS database.​

• Domain renewals and transfers: They handle the renewal of domain registrations and facilitate the transfer of domains between different registrars as needed.​

• Additional services: Many registrars offer supplementary services such as web hosting, email hosting, SSL certificates and privacy protection.​

Learn more: What is a domain name?

Domain name registrars and ICANN

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to namespaces on the internet.

What does ICANN do in relation to domain registrars?

ICANN accredits registrars, checking and enforcing that they meet specific standards and guidelines. This accreditation is essential for a secure and reliable domain registration process that you can rely on.

ICANN enforces compliance with policies designed to protect registrants' rights and ensure security across the internet. It plays a pivotal role in preventing fraudulent activities related to domain registrations.

Domain registrar vs registry vs registrant

When it comes to understanding what a domain name registrar is there is some terminology that's important to know, as each is a crucial part of the domain name system. These are:

• Registrar: A company authorized by ICANN to sell domain names directly to consumers. They provide services such as DNS management and customer support.

• Registry: An organization responsible for managing top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com or .org. They maintain a database of all registered domains within their TLDs.

• Registrant: The individual or business that registers a domain name through a registrar. As a registrant, you hold the rights to use that specific domain name for your website or email services for the agreed upon time period with your registrar.

How to choose the right domain name registrar

Selecting the right domain registrar is a critical decision for your business, as it impacts your website and branding online. Some criteria to look at include:

Customer service

Reliable customer service is essential, so look for registrars, like Wix, that offer 24/7 support and multiple contact options, such as phone, email and live chat. This should mean you can resolve any issues quickly and without any stress.

Pricing

Compare pricing structures among registrars and not just the the initial registration cost but also renewal fees and any additional charges. Transparent pricing helps avoid unexpected expenses. With Wix, a customizable domain name is free with a paid website plan.

Reputation

Research the reputation of potential registrars by reading reviews and recommendations from other businesses. A reputable registrar will have a track record of reliability and customer satisfaction.

What are some popular domain registrars?

If you need a free web hosting platform in addition to a domain name, then choosing Wix is a good idea. On top of a long list of website templates and Wix features for building a professional online presence, you’ll get access to powerful domain management tools, such as privacy protection (WHOIS protection), easy transfer, subdomains and a business email address. Furthermore, Wix will also provide you with 24/7 security monitoring, HTTPS and SSL protection, which are essential when you're learning how to make a website.

Other popular options include name.com, domain.com, Namecheap and Bluehost.

Learn more: Best domain registrars

What are some other services domain registrars might offer?

Domain registrars often provide a range of additional services that can enhance your online capabilities and website. These services go beyond basic domain registration, offering business tools and features.

Google workspace integration

Some registrars offer seamless integration with Google Workspace, enabling you to set up professional email addresses and access Google's suite of productivity tools. This integration can enhance collaboration and communication within your business.

For example, in some regions you can purchase a personalized Google Workspace business email directly from Wix (e.g. yourname@mybusiness.org).

Domain name generator

A domain name generator can not only help you come up a domain name you love, it can also help you check that your domain name is available.

What are the benefits of choosing an all-in-one domain registrar?

Opting for a registrar that provides a wide array of services can be advantageous in a few ways. One of these is convenience. Managing multiple aspects of your website through a single provider simplifies administration and reduces the complexity of dealing with multiple vendors.

Bundling services such as hosting, email and security features with domain registration can also lead to cost savings compared to purchasing each service separately. It also makes them easier to manage from one provider.

Choosing the best domain registrar for multiple domains

For businesses with multiple domains, effective management of your domain portfolio is important A well-organized portfolio ensures that all your domains are used efficiently and remain secure.

Choose a registrar that offers tools for managing multiple domains from a single dashboard. This centralization simplifies tasks such as renewals, DNS updates and contact information changes.

Enable automated renewal options to prevent accidental expiration of critical domains. This feature ensures continuous ownership and avoids disruptions to your online services.

It's common to ask can I buy a domain name permanently? We explain why that isn't an option and how to use a domain long term.