Reducing Internet domain name confusion is critical for all Web page creators who want people to find them easily online. Since there is such an astonishing number of Web sites on the Internet, it can be difficult to create a domain name that doesn’t closely resemble another one already in existence. If a Web page is going to be successful, it must have a distinct name. Luckily, a few strategies exist that can help you create a domain name that stands out.

Go With Dot Com
When you are looking at available domain names, keep in mind that sites that end in dot com are sought before domain names that end in dot net or dot biz. This is because the vast majority of popular sites end with dot com, and seekers may entirely ignore that fact that some sites end differently. In order to establish a dot com site, you must purchase one from a Web site host or provider. The cost of buying a domain name varies, but if you want to build a Web page, you must make this investment. Sometimes, hosting services also sell domain names, so you can get a package deal.

Beware The Hyphen
Long domain names with hyphens easily slip the mind. Remember, domain name confusion can be eliminated by seeking the simplest name possible. Hyphens make a domain name unnecessarily long-winded, and it’s not uncommon to find Web sites that actually have multiple hyphens. If a seeker can’t remember the exact placement of a hyphen, they may give up searching altogether.

Keep It Relevant
Your domain name should be as closely related to your site’s content as possible. That is, if you sell sponges, it is wise to choose a name such as “taylorsponges.com.” A name such as “what-do-youclean-with.com” is irrelevant, it is too long and it contains unnatural breaks. If your domain name is simple and closely related to your site’s content, seekers may be able to make an educated guess about your domain name should they forget it.

Don’t Squat
Cyber squatting involves choosing a name that is nearly identical to a popular site. This is a shady move, as it infringes on established trademark or service. An example might be “disney1.com.” If you feel it’s necessary to leech off another site’s popularity, you might want to re-think designing a Web site altogether because chances are good that you will be sued if you domain squat.

As the number of Web sites increases every month, it can be difficult to choose a name that hasn’t been taken but is still original and succinct. Keep in mind that a relevant and simple available domain name is the wisest option. Also, if your content is original, there’s no need to squat. Focus on creativity and simplicity, and you're sure to find the perfect name for your site.