XFOR: How To Register an Internet Domain Name (153011)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Exchange Server 4.0
  • Microsoft Exchange Server 5.0
  • Microsoft Exchange Server 5.5
This article was previously published under Q153011

SUMMARY

In order to connect a host to the Internet, you must register a domain name with the InterNIC. The InterNIC is responsible for registering top second level domains EDU, ORG, GOV, COM, and NET. This article outlines procedures and considerations for the registration process.

MORE INFORMATION

InterNIC Registrations Services is provided by Network Solutions Inc. After choosing potential domain names, you can use the WHOIS program to verify that the domain is available. To use WHOIS, connect to http://www.internic.net/ through a World Wide Web browser. For additional information about methods of verifying domain names, please see the following article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

151710 Using WHOIS To Research Internet Domains

After a domain name is selected, it should be entered into at least two domain name servers. The first two servers are known as the primary DNS and secondary DNS servers and are the authoritative servers for resolving hosts for the domain. Other hosts that wish to connect with the domain will query these servers to resolve a host name to an IP address. Any additional servers that contain domain information will act as backups. While the InterNIC requires existing domain servers to list the new domain before it becomes propagated to the Internet, it is possible to reserve a domain name first.

After the DNS entries are performed, an application is submitted to the InterNIC along with payment for the registration. Currently, new registrations are $100 for two years and renewals are $50 per year. Check with the InterNIC for current pricing.

The easiest way to submit a registration application is through the World Wide Web using the InterNIC home page listed above. The following information is requested on the application:
  1. Requested domain name.

    Contact Names. These include administrative, technical, zone, and billing contacts.

    Organization Details including name, address, and phone number.

    Primary and secondary DNS server names and host addresses.
  2. Contact Names. These include administrative, technical, zone, and billing contacts.

    Organization Details including name, address, and phone number.

    Primary and secondary DNS server names and host addresses.
  3. Organization Details including name, address, and phone number.

    Primary and secondary DNS server names and host addresses.
  4. Primary and secondary DNS server names and host addresses.
After you submit the application, the registration system will assign a tracking and invoice number. The status of the registration can be tracked via e-mail or the World Wide Web. Once the registration is complete, the domain name will be propagated to top level name servers and Internet hosts will be able to connect to machines on the new domain.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:4/28/2005
Keywords:kbhowto kbusage KB153011
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