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Note: This article applies only if you want to reserve a domain name and do not plan to set up a Web host account with it yet. If you're ready to move forward to setting up a site, start with this article.

A domain name is a way to identify pages, files, resources or computers that are connected to the Web. Anyone who wants to be on the Web needs to have one.

The domain for this site, for example, is bluepoint0.com. If you want to launch a Web site, you'll first need to register a domain name. Here's how you do it.

1. Go to any Web site that specializes in reserving domain names (Google "reserve a domain"). Some popular ones are HostGator, GoDaddy and Yahoo! Domains.
2. On their site, navigate to the page that allows you to reserve the domain you want.
3. Type in the domain name you want to represent your brand. You'll have an option of choosing .com, .org, .info, .biz and a host of other .names. The most popular by far is .com, so I recommend going with this. Only because it might be easier for people to find you.
4. When you've typed your domain name in, click submit and you'll be taken through a payment process.
5. If for some reason your desired domain name is taken, try a variation. Remember, however, to select a name that represents you well and that you like.
6. I always find it a good idea to reserve your personal name (i.e. johnsmith.com) in addition to your business or brand domain. You can then link both domains to your Web site, and people have two ways of finding you now.

What I Would Do

1. Go to GoDaddy.com
2. Type the domain you want in the field in the front page.
3. On the next page, verify that it's the domain you want. Most domains are $10-$20 a year*.
4. Continue through the process until you've paid for the domain.
5. You'll be e-mailed a receipt and next steps on how to set up your Web site.

*Note: many domain hosting companies offer specials for the first year of domain reservation. Be careful because while you might jump at a deal to pay only $6 the first year, you may end up paying $36 the next year. Find a company that has one set price per year.

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