Who We AreDomain Names
If your question is not addressed, please call us at (800) 251-3863 or complete our support form to ask your question.
- What is a domain name?
- Can I have my own domain name?
- What are some guidelines for selecting a domain name?
- How can I check the availability of a particular domain name?
- What if I already own a domain name, but AdvisorSquare does not host it?
- When do I need to renew my domain name?
What is a domain name?
A domain name is a unique name that identifies a site on the Internet. For example, in www.myfinancialsite.com, “myfinancialsite.com” is the domain name.
Domain names must be registered through a domain name registration company, also known as a Registrar. If you don’t already have a domain name, AdvisorSquare will register one on your behalf through our third-party Registrar and bill you for the initial registration fee. Once your domain name is registered, you own it and must renew it with the Registrar from term to term for a nominal fee. Whether we register your domain name or you do it yourself, you are responsible for all renewal fees, which are billed directly by the Registrar.
Can I have my own domain name?
Yes, you can have your own domain name, which must be registered with a domain name registration company, also known as a Registrar. Registering a domain name is part of the process in creating a website, so AdvisorSquare will handle the registration on your behalf through our third-party Registrar. However, you actually own the domain name and are responsible for all associated registration and renewal fees. Once your domain name is registered, your URL is activated and an “Under Construction” page displays at your Web address until your website goes live.
If AdvisorSquare registers your domain name, we will send you an email with your domain name registration account information. Please keep this information for your records—you’ll need it to access to your domain name account for renewals and maintenance.
What are some guidelines for selecting a domain name?
- Make it as short and simple as possible.
- Because domain names are not case sensitive, there is no difference whether you use upper or lowercase letters.
- Do not use punctuation or spaces. Although underscores are recognized, they are not recommended because they can be too easily misinterpreted. Stick to all letters!
- Choose carefully. Once you have distributed your address, you probably won't want to change it!
How can I check the availability of a particular domain name?
You can visit a number of websites, including InterNIC (http://www.internic.com/whois.html) and Check Domain.com (http://www.checkdomain.com), where you can conduct a search to see if a particular domain name is available (i.e., not registered with anyone else).
What if I already own a domain name, but AdvisorSquare does not host it?
If you already own a domain name, please contact us at (800) 251-3863 to have the DNS transferred to AdvisorSquare. There is a one-time $60 fee to have your domain name transferred from another host. No matter who hosts your website, you still own the domain name. Your domain name registration remains with the registration company (Registrar) you originally registered it with, and you are still responsible for all associated renewal fees through that Registrar.
When do I need to renew my domain name?
If you are not sure when your domain name expires, please visit the following website, www.internic.com/whois.html, and enter your domain name to check the expiration date. Please make sure you renew your domain name before its expiration date. If your domain name expires, your email and website become inaccessible, and the Registrar requires a $150 fee to reinstate your access.