I checked in on a former local lead the other day to see if they were still interested in web design services. Unfortunately, they had gone with our competition for their new website, so I decided to check out the site. While it is mediocre at best, any presence is still better than no presence and I’m glad they found something that fits within their budget and needs.
However, there was one GLARING issue of concern.
They didn’t have ownership of their domain.
Their web designer did, it was in the designer’s name which means essentially the designer now owns the website. If the designer happens to die, disappear, or decide to be malicious, that business could lose a big part of its online presence instantly. Be sure to check out 10 Things every small business owner should know about their websites.
In the digital age, establishing a unique and robust online presence is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. A crucial part of this online presence is owning a domain name, the digital address where customers, clients, and curious internet wanderers can find you. But owning a domain name isn’t enough. To truly wield the power of your online presence, you need to be the administrator and owner of your own domain. Here’s why.
The Power of Control, Ownership of a Domain
When you own and administer your domain, you hold the keys to your digital kingdom. As the domain owner, you have complete control over the content you publish, the design of your website, and the technical settings that impact its functionality and performance.
Having control over your domain gives you the freedom to make changes as and when you see fit. Want to revamp your website’s look and feel? Go ahead! Need to change your hosting provider to improve your site’s speed? You can do that too. As the domain administrator, you’re in the driver’s seat, steering your online presence toward the destination you desire.
Branding and Professionalism
Ownership of a domain can significantly impact your branding efforts. A unique domain name that matches your business name or your line of work can boost your professional image and give you a competitive edge. It sends a clear message to your website visitors— you mean business.
In addition to improving your brand image, a personalized domain name can enhance your visibility in search engine results, driving more traffic to your website. By optimizing your website’s SEO, you can attract more potential customers and increase your chances of conversion.
Security and Privacy
Being the owner and administrator of your domain gives you an upper hand in securing your website. You have the authority to set up necessary security measures, such as SSL certificates, that protect your site and your users’ information.
Moreover, with ownership of a domain, you have control over your domain’s privacy settings. You can choose to keep your information private, reducing the risk of spam or unwanted contact.
Business Continuity and Autonomy
Imagine waking up one day to find your website offline because your domain administrator has disappeared or ceased operations. This nightmare scenario can be avoided if you are the administrator of your domain. It ensures business continuity and protects your online presence from any third-party issues.
Furthermore, owning your domain gives you autonomy. You’re not tied to a particular service provider or platform, and you can make the necessary changes to adapt to your business’s evolving needs.
Economic Advantages
There are also economic advantages to being the domain owner and administrator. While there might be an upfront cost in purchasing a domain name, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Having a domain boosts your business’s credibility, potentially attracting more customers and increasing sales.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, being the owner and administrator of your own domain is not just about control—it’s about security, branding, business continuity, and economic benefits. It provides you with the tools to navigate the digital world on your own terms and to shape your online presence in a way that best represents your business.
If you’re not yet the owner of your domain, consider making the change. It’s an investment in your online presence that can yield significant returns. And remember, in the vast, interconnected world of the internet, your domain is your home. Make sure you hold the keys.
