Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a domain name?
The purpose of a domain name is to identify your business on the internet. A domain name is similar to your business' street address, but it is your address for the web and is typically something like www.yourbusinessname.com.au. A domain name by itself is not very useful, but when used in conjunction with a web site and WebCentral's world-class hosting services, internet users around the world will be able to locate your business on the internet. WebCentral can help you secure a domain name for your business - Simply call our Sales Team on 1800 800 099 (ext. 1) to discuss your domain name options.
- Why is it important to have my own domain name for my email?
One of the main advantages of registering a domain name and signing up for an email service with WebCentral (such as a BusinessMail 30 or Managed Exchange premium email account), is that your email addresses will always be independent of your local internet service provider (ISP). Organisations without their own domain name will find it difficult to change ISPs without also changing email addresses.
For example, Mick’s Mowing may have an email account with his local ISP, Example ISP, meaning that his email address would be mick@exampleISP.com.au. However, after moving suburbs, Mick has discovered that Example ISP does not service his new area, and so he needs to change ISPs. Not only does this mean that he will need to change his email address, but he will also need to reprint all his stationery, business cards and signage to reflect his new email address as well, which can end up being a very costly exercise!
The other benefit of using your own domain name for your email is the professionalism it projects. Plus, why promote another company in your email address, when you could be promoting your own?
- I already have a domain name. Can I move it to WebCentral when I sign up for my web hosting plan?
If you already have a domain name that is delegated to an internet service provider (ISP), you can have the domain name redelegated (ie. moved) to WebCentral's domain name servers at the same time you sign up for your web hosting plan. Having your web hosting, email and domain name with WebCentral means maintaining one point of contact for technical support and receiving one consolidated invoice for these services.
Redelegating your domain name to WebCentral also means that we will become the authorised administrative contact where this is possible (please ask if you are unsure), and will notify you via your Mission Control panel if we are able to assume this role. This allows us to provide better support for your web hosting services as your domain name, web site and email will all be hosted on the same platform. There is no charge involved in redelegating your domain name to WebCentral.
