A Domain name or url is the web address that customers will use to find your website on the internet. A domain name should be something memorable and preferably something to do with what your website is about or contains.
The shorter the better to decrease the chance that customers will make a typo while trying to access your website.
Your domain name will also give you the ability to have an email address that matches your website address. Please be aware that if you are in an industry that requires you to comply with HIPAA or similar regulations, you will need to secure an email service that meets these regulations and security measures.
Lots of places will let you register a domain name for your business. Don’t wait too long if you have an idea for a domain name or someone else might already own it.
It’s also a good idea to get the domain name registered in your name instead of your web designer/developer’s name. You don’t want to have to rely on someone else to send you renewal notices.
Domain names are usually good for one year and will need to be renewed. If you let your domain name renewal slip, you may not be able to get it back and customers won’t be able to find your website.