Web Hosting Getting Started Guide

Basic Domain name information

1. What is a DNS?

DNS stands for "Domain Name Server".   This is a networked server that resides on the Internet that holds a large database containing IP addresses and domain names.  It also contains routing information for every domain listed in its database.  So, whenever you type in a domain name in a web browser, that request is routed to a DNS server which then tells your request where to go to locate the server of the domain that you have specified.   

2. How long will it take for my domain to get transferred to my new server?

Once your domain registrar notifies the InterNIC of your registration activity, InterNIC sends a confirmation notice that your domain name has been registered or transferred, it can take up to 3 to 5 days before the domain name becomes fully active. All DNS servers and Internet Service Providers throughout the world must update their DNS tables to reflect any new web site locations. The rate at which this happens can vary among providers. New domain name registrations are usually live on the InterNIC's main root servers within 24 hours of registration completion. You may need to allow additional time for this information to trickle down to all the DNS Servers on the Internet. Transfers will take approximately 72 hours from the time the InterNIC receives the OK from either the Administrative or Technical contacts to be live in the InterNIC root servers.

3. How do I get my domain name transferred from one hosting firm to another?

For this process you will have to contact the firm that you registered your domain with.   Some of the large firms include Network Solutions, Name It and register.com.  These domain domain registrars as they are usually called, will probably have some type of online system that will allow you to log in and manage your domain name account.   Once you log in, you will have to access the section that says either "Change DNS server information" or "Transfer DNS information".   When you access this area you will see your current DNS server information which will look something like this:

ns0.hostingfirm1.net
123.455.566.778

ns1.hostingfirm1.net
123.455.566.779

ns2.hostingfirm1.net
123.455.566.780

You will now simply need to update this information with the new information that your new hosting firm will provide to you.

4. How do I register a domain name?

You may register your domain name through various domain registrars. If the domain is available, you can purchase it directly.