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Frequently asked questions about buying domain names

• What is a domain name?

  By definition, a domain name is simply a human readable form of an IP address. In function it is the destination that you type into a web browser in order to visit a website, such a www.google.com. Metaphorically, it is very similar to how you would scroll to a contact in your cell phone rather than manually dialing the person by entering their full phone number; the phone number would be an IP address and the saved contact would be a domain name. Always buy a domain with a reputable domain registrar.

• How do I buy a domain name?

  With Netfirms, buying a domain name is very straightforward. Simply use the search bar at the top of this page to check domain availability, then follow the prompts in order to complete the domain registration process.

• I have a domain name at a different company. Can I transfer my domain to Netfirms?

  Yes. You can transfer either the domain registration or simply update the DNS at your current registrar to point to your Netfirms hosting account, or both. We would recommend both hosting and maintaining the domain registration with us in order to ensure the optimum support experience.

• What is WHOIS Domain Privacy?

  The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is the organization that governs the rules and regulations for domain name registrations. ICANN requires, for various reasons including to determine ownership of a domain should a dispute transpire, that a publicly accessible database be maintained that contains the contact information of all domain registrants. In layman's terms this means your domain name will be searchable by anyone and those search results will include your full name, physical address and other contact information. In order to protect your privacy in this regard, Netfirms offers WHOIS Domain Privacy which then masks your information using our own and implements a procedure for you to control who is able to then gain access to your contact information via a WHOIS search. Whenever you buy a domain name, no matter what domain name registration service you use, you are subject to the same ICANN rules, for this reason it is important to use a reputable service who cares about your privacy. Netfirms always recommends enabling WHOIS Domain Privacy.

• How many domain names can I host with Netfirms?

  Our Basic web hosting plan will host one domain, whereas our Deluxe and Ultra web hosting plans will host unlimited domains. It is important to choose the plan that best fits your needs. All of our hosting plans allow for unlimited subdomains, and you can certainly upgrade at any time.

• Can I use my custom domain name for my email?

  Absolutely. In order to convey an air of professionalism with your online business, or even just make a good first impression, it is important to use an email address that matches your domain name. Netfirms makes this very easy to set up once you complete your domain name registration.