The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Domain Name: Types, Pricing, and Essential Tips for Your Business

Building a digital brand starts with one crucial step: choosing the right domain name. Think of it as your digital storefront, the address people type in to find your business in the vast landscape of the internet.

If you are currently designing a custom website or application, choosing a domain shouldn’t be an afterthought. Let’s dive into the details so you can make the best choice for your brand!

What Exactly is a Domain Name? Technically, a domain is a simplified version of an IP address (those complicated strings of numbers) turned into easy-to-remember words. The right domain name strengthens your branding and makes it effortless for potential clients to find the solutions you offer.

IP Address vs. Domain Name: A Comparison Imagine you want to visit the Webdev Custom office. In the digital world, every server has unique “coordinates” called an IP address.

• IP Address (Hard to remember): 103.154.2.87 or 172.67.141.23 Imagine having to tell a client: “Please visit our website at one-seven-two-dot-six-seven…” It would be incredibly impractical.

• Domain Name (Very easy to remember): webdevcustom.com With just one or two brand-relevant words, clients know exactly where to go for their digital solutions.

A Simple Analogy: Smartphone Contacts This concept is very similar to your phone’s contact list:

• The IP Address is the phone number (a long string of digits).

• The Domain Name is the contact name you save (e.g., “Webdev Custom”).

You don’t need to memorize the phone number manually; you just search for the name, click, and the system connects you. That is the core function of a domain: wrapping technical complexity into a professional brand identity.

Types of Domain Extensions (TLDs) There are many extensions to choose from. Here are the most common ones:

1. gTLD (Generic Top-Level Domain):

   • .com: The most popular choice worldwide. Highly recommended for a global professional impression.

   • .net: Typically used by tech companies or network infrastructure.

   • .org: Commonly used by non-profit organizations.

2. ccTLD (Country Code Top-Level Domain):

   • .id: Indonesia’s official extension. Great for local SEO and building trust within the domestic market.

   • .co.id: Specifically for registered business entities with legal standing in Indonesia.

3. New gTLDs (Industry-Specific):

   • Examples: .tech, .agency, .app. These are perfect if you want a modern look that aligns specifically with your industry.

How Much Does a Domain Name Cost? Prices vary depending on the extension and the registrar you choose. Generally:

• .com: Ranges between IDR 150,000 – 200,000 per year.

• .id: Ranges between IDR 200,000 – 250,000 per year.

• .my.id: Very affordable, usually under IDR 50,000 per year.

Keep in mind that these are annual subscription fees. Make sure to renew on time so your business address isn’t snatched up by someone else.

Tips for Choosing the Right Domain To ensure your domain is effective, keep these points in mind:

• Keep it Short and Easy to Spell: Avoid using numbers or hyphens (-) which can be confusing.

• Represent Your Brand: Ensure the domain matches your business name.

• Make it Memorable: Choose catchy words so clients remember them for future visits.

• Check Social Media Availability: Ensure the same name is available on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn for consistent branding.

Build a Professional Digital Presence with Webdev Custom Choosing a domain is just the first step. To have a digital platform that truly supports your business growth, you need a system built to high standards.

Webdev Custom is here as your strategic partner for digital transformation. From custom web development to full-stack software engineering, we are committed to delivering the best results for your brand.

Don’t let your big ideas stay on the drawing board. Consult your needs today or visit our Integrated Digital Solutions to see how we can help build the custom website and applications that fit your business vision.