How to Park a New Domain

If you have come up with a good domain name but don't have the time to publish a new Web site, consider parking the name. Parking a domain name ensures that nobody else can use it while you're in the process of building your Web site. To park a new domain, just follow this guide.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Create and register a new domain name with a credible registrar site. Do a search among domain name register sites (see Resources below) to find out if the domain you want is already registered or still available.

2. Point your domain at the name servers. Do this by supplying the registrar site with at least two name servers or Domain Name Servers (DNS).

3. Direct the name servers to the Web server of your choice by going to the Web host or ISP-controlled DNS manager. Supply your ISP or Web host with the name of your new domain so it can point your domain to your site's IP address.

4. Add your new domain to the server's Host Headers to get your site to respond or directed to the new domain if you are using a shared IP. If you are using a dedicated IP, you do not need to do this.

5. Wait for the name servers and your Web host to accommodate the changes you made. This usually takes one to two days. Check that your parked domain is working once all updates have been made.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want your domain name to offer something more than an "under construction" notice, try loading the temporary site with pay-per-click advertisement services.
• When you're looking for a Web site where you can park your domain name, seek stable registrars with a reputation of reliability and service.
• You get what you pay for with a domain name service. If you go for the cheapest site, you might not get all of the features or reliability you need.

Resources

• Visit Register.com at Register Domain Names
• Learn more about registering a domain name at the Network Solutions Official Web Site
• Register your domain name at the enom website