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Step 1
Check to see if the domain name you are interested in purchasing is available. The easiest way is to search online at a website such as www.allwhois.com. You may also try accredited doman registrars online to see if a domain name is taken. For a list of accredited registrars go to www.internic.net. Also check to see if the domain name is not already used off the web as a trademark or service mark. If you operate a dot-com with the same name as a brick-and-mortar business, you could receive a "cease and desist" letter.
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Step 2
Determine when the registration expires if the domain name is already registered. You can research the registrant at www.allwhois.com, including their name, address and date of registration expiration. If the domain name is not renewed by the expiration date you can then claim it.
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Step 3
Use a low-cost domain registration service if you want to save on costs. Popular sites include www.godaddy.com where registration can be had for only a few dollars. These sites often require that domains are hosted on their web space, allowing them to recoup costs by putting advertising with the content of your website.
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Step 4
Look for domains on the resale market if you want to browse for a good name. Thousands are listed on eBay and other online auctions services every day.
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Step 5
Register your domain name as a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office for further protection. You may register your domain name there if the name distinguishes your services from the services of others. For example, you might not be able to register the name www.sports.com, but you are more likely to get a trademark for www.davidsportssupplies.com.
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Step 6
Consider buying up additional forms of your doman name in case you may want to use them in the future. For example, if you buy www.domainname.com, you may also want to purchase www.domainname.net and www.domainname.biz.
