What is the second level domain?
In simple terms, a second-level domain is the name to the left of the domain extension, .com or .net. Example.com is reserved to explain the relationship between Top Level Domains (TLDs) and Second Level Domains (SLDs). Here, the word "example" - directly to the left of the last point - is the second level domain. On Atakdomain.com, the word "domain" is SLD.
SLD is the first point of contact for Internet users with your website. It is the most unique part of a URL and thus the most important. Later on, we'll cover all the different ways you can benefit from SLD.
Many people are confused about the term second level domain. They don't know where it is within the generic domain name, or why it's important in the first place. If you understand the full potential of the second level domain, not only will you have an easier time navigating the vast internet space, but you can also make your personal website more visible.
To fully understand the importance of niche, and how to utilize second-level domains in useful ways, it requires an understanding of the purpose of a domain name.
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What is domain name?
In a basic sense, a website's domain name is the address of a website on the Internet, just like your home address. If you want people to find your home, you give them a set of letters and numbers that allow people to locate you. Domain names work in exactly the same way. If the internet is a mega neighborhood, and websites are homes, domain names are the addresses printed on the barriers or homes.
Domain names are also unique; There are no two identical ones on the Internet. While the same address may exist for two homes located in two neighboring counties, the Internet is essentially one large, cohesive neighborhood. Since there is no duplication of domain names, each domain name is private and valuable.
Domain name components
Domain names, such as the one currently in the search bar for this webpage, have several components. Each element of this alphanumeric string is used to help organize the web address so that both computers and Internet users can easily track websites. Every web address that exists on the Internet adheres to this organizational structure.
Once you understand how the domain name architecture works, it becomes easier to understand how important second-level domains are. It performs an invaluable function, and is often the most unique and often highly searched for a web address.
URL
Everyone has heard the acronym "URL," but what does that actually mean? It stands for Uniform Resource Locator, and is the name of the complete string of characters and symbols in a web address. In other words, every single element in a web address is part of the public URL.
Again, think about your street address. It leads all over to your home, but can also be divided into parts. It includes your street name, your zip code, the name of your city, and the numbers that correspond to your home or apartment. Only in its entirety can your street address lead to an accurate location. Likewise, a full URL can only lead to a web address. It is a combination of all the individual elements that help web servers to direct your computer to a website.
Transfer protocol
The transport protocol can be found at the beginning of the URL. In most cases, it is represented as https: //, also called Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol. This informs the website how to transfer data from a specific webpage to your browser.
Often, you'll see websites that drop an "s" and start with simply http: //. These sites are less secure than https: // website. "S" stands for a security layer that encrypts the information you enter on the website. Without this critically important little message, it is possible for bad-faith Internet users to access the information you enter on the website.
Top level domain
In the simplest terms, a TLD - also called a domain name extension - is the set of characters that stamp a web address. In the web address hierarchy, top-level domains are the most important. Of all TLDs, the most popular one is .com. Although they are also the most popular, there are new TLDs that are invented all the time, are becoming increasingly customizable, and can be changed to suit the needs of an individual website. Some of the most recent ones include .blog and .me.
Directories and folders
When you first click on a website, you'll notice that the final extension of URL text is usually a TLD. However, if you click on a link inside the website, another story will often appear. This is called a directory or folder. Corresponds to specific pages within the website. If a website looks like home, directories and folders are the different rooms within it.
An example of a second level domain
As we explained before using "example.com" - the word "example" is a second-level domain. The second level field is important for the following reasons:
- SLD is where you put your branding on. If you are a business, company, or organization, it is best to place your brand name within your SLD. If the SLD you want is already registered, learn how to track domain name owners, so you can try to buy a pre-existing SLD.
- If you set up an email address with your company website, such as Gmail for Work, your SLD is the most prominent part of that address. It is important to make sure that you choose something that is easy to remember and easy to write.
- In many ways, your SLD is the identity of your website. It must comply with the services you provide. It sets your website apart from others, and thus, is worth thinking carefully. Reserved second level domains
The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) has reserved three domain names for use as examples for anyone wanting to illustrate the different elements of a domain name. In all likelihood, it will never be made available to the public and will remain in its current state.
These three reserved areas are as follows:
- example.org
- example.net
- example.com
Second level domain do’s and don’ts
Before registering your dream second level domain, there are a few things you should keep in mind. These quick tips can help you retain ownership of your site and make sure you generate the most traffic possible.
- Remember to renew your registration. When registering your domain for the first time, you have the option to register it for up to 10 years. It is impossible to register it indefinitely. Make sure to secure it for as long as needed, and renew when the time is right. If there is any gap between the time your property expires and the time you seek to renew, then someone else may be able to legally acquire the domain. To avoid any problems, it is best to set your account to auto-renew within your account management dashboard.
- Avoid using numbers, abbreviations or dashes in your business name. Although possible, they do not make for a website name that is easy to remember.
Use the second level domain to communicate your business online
Second level domains are probably the most important part of your domain name, so make sure you take your time when choosing one!
