Understanding Domain Name Parking
When purchasing a domain name, you are simply acquiring the domain itself—without any additional services attached. One of the most common misunderstandings among new domain buyers is the concept of domain parking.
What is Domain Name Parking?
A parked domain is a domain name that has been registered but does not have any active services associated with it, such as website hosting or email. When you first buy a domain, unless you specifically purchase hosting services along with it, the domain remains parked.
This means there is no website, no email, and no other functionality connected to the domain—it’s essentially inactive but reserved for your use.
Adding Hosting to a Domain
If you want to create a website, set up professional email accounts, or use any other online services, you’ll need to add a hosting plan to your domain. Hosting provides the storage and resources necessary to run a website or email services. Once hosting is attached to the domain, you can begin setting up emails, installing a website, and utilizing the domain for business or personal use.
Parked vs. Hosted Domains
The key difference between a parked and hosted domain is the presence of additional services:
- Parked Domain: Only the domain name is purchased, with no active services. It remains reserved but unused.
- Hosted Domain: The domain has an active hosting plan, enabling you to run a website, create emails, and access other online services.
Cost Considerations
Since parked domains do not require hosting, they are generally much cheaper to maintain. However, if you plan to actively use your domain for a website or email, you’ll need to invest in a hosting plan, which comes with additional costs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re purchasing a domain with the intention of launching a website or setting up email accounts, remember that registering the domain alone is just the first step. To make full use of your domain, you’ll need to add hosting services.
Understanding the difference between parked and hosted domains can help you plan your digital presence more effectively and avoid unexpected surprises when setting up your website or email.