What Is a Domain Name? A Beginner's Guide to Web Addresses
Never quite understood what a domain name is? We'll break it down simply — from how domains work to how to pick the right one for your site.
Domains are simpler than you think
Every website you visit has an address — that's what a domain name is. When you type naver.com or google.com into your browser, you're using a domain name.
Computers actually communicate using numeric IP addresses like 142.250.196.100. But remembering strings of numbers is a hassle, so domain names were created as human-readable alternatives.
Think of it this way: a domain name is your website's street address on the internet.
How is a domain structured?
Let's break down www.leto.kr:
- www — A prefix meaning "World Wide Web." Optional in most cases today.
- leto — The part you choose. Usually your brand or service name.
- .kr — The top-level domain (TLD). It indicates a country or category.
.com vs .kr vs everything else
.com
- The most widely used domain extension in the world.
- Open to anyone, regardless of country.
- Great for global brands and services.
.kr / .co.kr
- Indicates a South Korean website.
- Builds trust with Korean audiences.
- A solid choice for businesses targeting the Korean market.
.io, .ai, .dev
- Popular with startups and tech products.
- A good pick if you want something modern and distinctive.
The good news? Your choice of extension has minimal impact on SEO. What matters more is picking something that fits your brand.
How to choose a good domain name
Keep these principles in mind:
Keep it short. Aim for under 10 characters if possible. Shorter names are easier to remember and type.
Make it easy to say out loud. If you can tell someone your domain verbally and they get it right away, you're on the right track.
Avoid numbers and hyphens. They're easy to forget and often cause confusion.
Match your brand name. If your domain doesn't match your business name, it can feel off to visitors and hurt credibility.
Things to watch out for when registering
Track your renewal date. Domains are typically registered annually. If you forget to renew, someone else can claim your domain.
Keep your WHOIS info accurate. Your contact information needs to be correct so you receive renewal reminders.
Check for trademark conflicts. Using another brand's name in your domain can lead to legal trouble.
Ready to register your domain?
LETO makes it easy to search, register, and manage your domain — all in one place. Whether you're looking for a .com, .kr, or something more unique, we've got you covered at a fair price.
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