Internetology - Domain Name FAQ

Who are the domain name registrars?

A domain name registrar is an organisation that holds the central records (database) for all the domains they administer. They are often government owned or sponsored.

The central registrar for .com, .net and .org domain names is Network Solutions (used to be InterNic).

The registrar for .co.uk, .org.uk, .ltd.uk, .plc.uk and .net.uk domain names is Nominet.

The registrar for .gov.uk and .ac.uk domain names is UKERNA.

Although it is sometimes possible to register your name direct with the central registry you will find that domain registrars do not usually provide the other "required" services you need to go with your domain name. They normally deal with maintaining the central domain name database ONLY and you need an ISP to provide these other services (DNS setup and hosting etc.)

In addition an ISP is able to provide the next level of services for your domain - including setup of a web server / web space and email services - see Hosting for more information.