How Domain Registrars and Registries Work
Have you ever bought or registered a domain name before?
If you have, you would know that you need to register the domain through a domain registrar. However, have you ever wondered what is a domain registrar? What function does the domain registrar accomplish?
Today we will discuss the function of a domain registrar and how it works. We will go into detail about the role of the domain registrar to help you understand the exact role the registrar plays and provide you with some domain registrar tips that will have you more comfortable with the terminology.
What is a Domain Registrar?
The domain registrar is responsible for reserving domain names. The registrar also often times also offers domain hosting which assigns assigns IP addresses to those domain names. The IP address redirects all the domains to their current host. However, the primary function of the domain registrar is to register the domain names so that no one else can use that domain name.
A domain registrar can only register the domain name but has minimal to no involvement in managing the domain name. The task of managing the domain name is with the domain name registry.
How Does The Domain Registrar Work With The Registry?
Registries are organizations that deal with a specific top-level domain extension. For example, a .com will have a different registry as compared to a .net. Depending on the domain which you are trying to register, the domain registrar will interact with the registry of that particular TLD. The domain registries are also regulated by ICANN, which stands for Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.
Registries are the ones that reserve the domain name on behalf of the registrars. Thus, when you’re registering a domain name, your domain registrar has reserved it with the registry. While most of us Will only interact with the domain registrar, there are actually two entities involved in each and every domain registration transaction. As a consumer you only have to focus on choosing the right domain registrar rather than thinking about the work of registry.
The next question, of course, that you will have is; how you can choose the right registrar? There are parameters that you need to keep in mind while selecting the domain registrar. These include:
• Age and experience of the domain registrar:
You have to always look at the age and experience of the registrar. When you go with an established registrar, you will usually not have to worry about loopholes in the security of your domain, whether your domain actually gets registered or a litany of other problems that are common with new registrars.
• Cost:
The domain cost can vary from one registrar to another. Since the domain registration takes place with the same registry irrespective of the registrar, it is a good idea to go with the registrar, which can provide you with the best deal. It will ensure that you can save a significant amount of money.
• Additional services:
Many registrars also offer other services like hosting, SSL certificate, and so on. You have to determine the additional services which you need, and then you can choose the registrar that best fits your needs. You do not have to purchase any additional services at all. If you like you can simply register your domain name and use a separate web host for your other needs.
• Customer support:
Often, you will need to contact the registrar with one issue or the other. That is why; it is a good idea to choose a domain registrar who provides proper customer support. All customer support is not created equal so you will want to inquire if your desired registrar offers various support options such as phone or chat support.
Once you choose the domain register, depending on the many factors discussed above you are finally ready to register your domain name. It can be difficult to pick a domain registrar and often times can take a bit of research to determine the best choice. We hope that our guide has answered some of the common questions about the process and helps better explain the role of the domain registrar and how it related to registering domain names.
