Preparing for your Website

What is a domain name?
A domain name is a Web address. The domain name is mapped to an IP address (which represents a physical point on the Internet). When someone types a domain name into a Web browser, the requested Web page will open.

How to Register your Domain name?
Certain restrictions apply to registering a domain name in Australia. You will need to have a Registered Business or Company to be eligible to Register a dot com.au domain name.  Registered Organisations and Charitable Organisations are eligible to register dot org.au domain names.

How to find out if a Domain Name is available?
Many Internet service providers and Web hosting services, offer a search box in which to place the name you would like to check. You should never pay just to search for a domain name; most reputable sites will provide this service for free.  An estimated cost of domain names vary from $20 - $55 for 2 years.

What is Web Hosting
Web Hosts provide space on Internet servers for the storage of World Wide Web sites which can be accessed by others via the internet. This service is usually offered by ISPs or web hosting specialists. Usually most Web Hosts payment plans can be made monthly or annually in advance and plans can start as little as $10 per month.

What does bandwidth have to do with my Hosting plan?
Bandwidth is the amount of traffic that is allowed to occur between your website and the rest of the internet. Since bandwidth is a significant determinant of hosting plan prices.  Almost all hosting plans have bandwidth requirements measured in months.  Talk with your Web Host to estimate the amount of bandwidth that will be required by your site on a monthly basis.