Domain Names Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a domain name and why should you register one?

  A domain name is a "unique" human-readable name used to identify and locate computers on the Internet. Internet domain names provide a system of easy-to-remember Internet addresses which are translated by DNS (Domain Name Servers) into numeric IP (Internet Protocol) addresses used by the Internet.

  An Internet domain name is unique and allows you to have an "identity" on the Internet.

  A domain name adds value to your Internet presence and is therefore of great value to your organisation. Remember domain names are not just for businesses or organisations - many people register names for their own personal use.

  Domain names are used in a variety of contexts for identification, reference, and access to Internet resources. They can appear as components of Web sites' Uniform Resource Locators (URL, 'Web-address'), e.g. www.yahoo.com, electronic mail (e-mail) addresses after the customary '@' separator from the user's name, or as any other part of a syntax that describes an access method to a device or service in an IP network.

  If you register a domain name you could be:

  Web site address: http://www.your-domain-name.com Email addresses: name@your-domain-name.com

  If you DO NOT register a domain name you would be:

  Web site address: http://www.your-isp.com/users/your-name
  Email addresses: your-name@your-isp.com

• How long does it take to register a domain name?

  During normal business hours domain names are usually registered within 1-3 hours and active within 24 hours, outside these operating hours they can take slightly longer.

  Some domain names with restrictions can take longer as they have to be manually processed by the registrar:

  • edu.ng - 5 - 7 days
  • gov.ng - 5 - 7 days

   

  Sometimes registration of a domain name can take longer although this usually only occurs for the following reasons:

  • When either the central registries are very busy
  • Insufficient information has been provided with the order
  • Your payment was unsuccessful or has not been processed/verified

   

  Once your domain is registered it can take between 1 to 48 hours before your domain is fully visible across the Internet.

  It is important to note that the application to register a domain name does not guarantee reservation of that name and the application will only be processed following payment.

• I already have a domain name registered - can I transfer my domain to you?

  Yes - you can transfer a domain name to us. The cost to transfer any domain name is N3,500 + vat and this covers the domain name until its next due date (If within 2 years).

  In some cases moving the domain name to us can extend the registration by 1 year free of charge.

  To transfer your domain name to us please click here.

• I have seen another ISP that charges much less than you for domain names, why?

  There are companies that charge less than we do and there are also companies who charge more, this can be for a number of different reasons that you need to be aware of:

  • They do not include DNS hosting.
  • There are hidden fees for things like transferring your domain name.

  We offer a reliable and professional registration service at a competitive yet realistic price.

• Can I transfer my domain name elsewhere?

  Yes - you can transfer your domain name at any time - we would hate to lose you but there is no charge to transfer.

  We will need to know where you wish to transfer the domain name to and we need to know the details of at least 2 DNS servers that will hold your domain records.