What is registrar?
A registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names (like example.com). It works with the global domain system to let you register a unique web address and keep the ownership details up to date.
Let's break it down
- Domain name: the human‑readable address you type in a browser.
- Registry: the organization that controls the master database for a top‑level domain (TLD) such as .com, .org, .net.
- Registrar: the middle‑man that talks to the registry on your behalf, lets you buy a domain, and stores your contact info (who owns it).
- Whois record: the public record the registrar maintains with your name, email, and other details.
Why does it matter?
Without a registrar, you couldn’t claim a web address for your site, email, or online service. The registrar ensures your domain stays unique, points it to the right server, and lets you renew it so you don’t lose it.
Where is it used?
- Registering a website’s address (e.g., mybusiness.com).
- Setting up custom email addresses (info@mybusiness.com).
- Creating subdomains for different services (blog.mybusiness.com).
- Managing domain transfers when you switch providers.
Good things about it
- Convenient: One place to buy, renew, and manage many domains.
- Control: You can change DNS settings, forward traffic, or lock the domain to prevent theft.
- Support: Registrars often provide help desks, tutorials, and bulk‑management tools.
- Security options: Domain privacy, two‑factor authentication, and domain locking.
Not-so-good things
- Cost variations: Prices differ widely; some registrars add hidden fees for renewals or transfers.
- Lock‑in risk: Moving a domain can be tricky if the registrar imposes transfer restrictions.
- Privacy concerns: If you don’t enable privacy protection, your personal info is publicly visible in the WHOIS database.
- Variable support quality: Not all registrars offer fast or knowledgeable customer service.