The Web - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the different available domain name formats - .com , .net , .org
.COM, .NET and .ORG are unrestricted open domains — anyone from any country can register them. Originally, it was suggested that .COM be used primarily for commercial businesses, .NET for network related organisations and .ORG for nonprofit groups. However, with the explosion of the Internet (and specifically, the world wide web) as a new business medium, the lines were blurred, and companies and individuals alike started cross-registering domains (IE. Me.com, me.net, me.org) just to protect their interests. Now, .com, .net, and .org names (the generic Top Level Domains) can be used for any purpose.
Additional domain names are now also available - .info , .biz
.INFO is the Internet`s first unrestricted top level domain since .COM Around the globe, .INFO is synonymous with information. .INFO allows you to protect your brand, expand your global presence, and drive more traffic to your site. Anyone can register a .INFO.
.BIZ is the Internet`s first top level domain just for businesses - the new and visionary domain that will compliment, enhance, and extend how you do business on the Internet. .BIZ is for businesses only.
What is the difference between a .com and .com.au domain?
Essentially a .com.au domain name identifies you as an Australian business. This has a number of advantages if you are targeting Australian Internet users. The .com, .net and .org are called generic domains because they are not affiliated with any country. Having said that, there is no reason why you can`t have both. It is certainly possible to purchase both the .com and the .com.au versions of your domain name and have them both point to the same website.
What are the requirements for registering a .com.au domain?
To obtain an Australian domain ( .com.au, .net.au ) name you must have a registered business name with an ABN or ACN. The domain name you choose must be directly derived from that business name. The domain name must not be an Australian place name (Canberra, Alice Springs) and you must be able to directly derive the domain name from the business name.
In other words, if you run Toms Car Sales, you may register toms.com.au or tomscars.com.au but not, for example cheapcars.com.au (not directly derived) or car.com.au (generic).