Q: Can I register more than one domain name?
A: Yes, you can register as many domain names as you like. These can be aliased to one another, if required, so that you have e-mail and a website under more than one domain name. Domain names can also be “parked”, if you wish to secure the names, but not use them immediately for e-mail or a website.
Q: What are domain names?
A: Domain names are text names, which are used for finding one's way around the Internet. It is part of a system called DNS (Domain Name System), which converts the name into an IP (Internet Protocol) number and vice versa. Instead of having to say my company's web site can be found at (e.g.)196.22.209.22, I can say that our company web site is at www.allafrica.co.za and my e-mail address is sales@allafrica.co.za.
In the case of a web site address, the domain name is that part of the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) that tells a domain name server, using DNS, whether and where to forward a request for the specified web page, or e-mail.
Q: What are the advantages of having my own Domain Name?
A: Some of the advantages of having your own domain name include:
~ If your web site address is in the form of http://www.yourdomain (as apposed to something like: http://www.hostingproviderdomain/user/myusername), it will be easier for prospective clients and visitors to remember your web site address.
~ You can set-up a permanent e-mail address and your e-mail address will never change, no matter where your domain and/or e-mail is hosted.
~ Hosting under your own domain name contributes to the branding of your business and gives a more professional impression.
~ If your current web site address includes the "tilda" (~) sign, or is in the form of a sub-directory of another domain name, some search engines may not be able to list your site.
~ It is sensible to register your own domain name and protect your business's branding, before anybody else registers the domain name that you would require.
Q: Can I register any name?
A: Registration of domain names is generally on a first-come-first-served basis, providing that no 3rd party rights are infringed upon.
Technically, the letters in the alphabet (A-Z) and the numbers (0-9) and the hyphen (-) may be used. The technical character limit for some domain types may be up to 256 characters, but it is recommended that you keep the domain name as short as possible.
Legally, neither the registrar, nor the ISP doing the registration on behalf of a client, have any authority over the allocation of certain domain names and can therefore not be held liable in any domain name disputes. Domain name disputes must be settled between the parties, who lay claim to the name, failing which; the matter will have to be settled in court.
Please note that "cybersquatting", i.e. the registering of a domain with the sole intention of reselling it, is not condoned by the Internet Community and some registrars strictly forbid this practice.
Q: How do I know if the domain name I want is still available?
A: Please contact us with a list of names you are interested in. A consultant will confirm the availability if the names as soon as possible.
Q: Do I immediately have to make use of the Domain Name for E-mail, Web Site etc?
A: No, storage of the name is indefinite so that you are able to apply for other domain services in your own time.
Q: If I register a domain name with All Africa, must it remain on your servers?
A: Once your domain is registered to your company and, assuming the registration and renewal fees (where applicable) has been paid for in full, your domain name belongs to you and you are free to host your domain wherever you wish, be it locally or internationally.
