How to Register a Domain Name

A domain name acts as your website’s street address on the internet.

Instead of telling friends to visit 192.0.2.1 (an IP address), you share something easy like example.ca. Just as you choose a business name, picking the right domain name is the first step in setting up your website.

Each domain name is unique, which means you get a one-of-a-kind identity online.

Steps to Register a Domain Name

You can register a domain directly through many domain registrars.
We suggest Porkbun for its support.

Here is how to do it in a few simple steps:

1. Search for Your Name Go to the domain name registration website like Porkbun or Namecheap. Use their search bar to see if your preferred domain name is available. Try different spellings or extensions like .com, .ca, or .net if your first choice is not available.
2. Choose and Add to Cart Once you find an available domain name, add it to your cart. Both Porkbun and Namecheap will offer extra services like privacy protection. It’s wise to accept privacy options, since they keep your contact information out of public view.
3. Create an Account Sign up for an account on the domain name registration website. You will need to enter your contact information, which becomes the registered owner’s details for your domain. The most important information you add is your email address as this is how you prove your ownership of the domain name. It’s also how you get notified of upcoming expirations and other important emails related to the ownership of the domain name.
4. Checkout and Pay Complete your payment securely. Most domains cost between $10 and $20 per year on these platforms, depending on the domain name extension (for example, .ca, .com).
5. Set Up DNS DNS stands for Domain Name System, which is like the postal system for the internet, routing visitors to your web hosting service. You can point your new domain to your web hosting provider, such as Tresseo, by updating the DNS records, usually found in your registrar’s account dashboard.

By following these steps, you secure control of your domain name for your website. Next, you can connect your domain to your website’s hosting, such as WordPress or DirectAdmin, to make your site live.

Registering a Domain Name through Tresseo

If you want convenience or prefer not to manage these steps on your own, Tresseo can register your domain name for you at $30 (CAD) per year. This is a good choice if you want all your website services managed in one place.

At Tresseo, we recommend this option for those who want a “one-stop shop” experience. Having us handle your domain registration means we’ll manage setup, renewals, and security steps like domain locking, which helps protect your domain from unauthorized transfers.

After registering, always keep your contact email up-to-date in your account. Registrars like Porkbun, Namecheap, and Tresseo will rely on this address for renewal notices and security alerts. Missing an expiry notice could mean losing your domain.

With your new domain name in place, you have set the foundation for a successful website. Whether you choose Porkbun, Namecheap, or the convenience of Tresseo, understanding how to register and manage your domain gives you the freedom to shape your website the way you want.