What Is a Domain Name and How Does It Work?

A domain name is your website's address on the internet - the human-readable label (like example.ca) that people type into their browser to find you. Without domain names, we'd all need to remember long strings of numbers called IP addresses just to visit a website.

How Domain Names Work

When someone types your domain name into a browser, a process called DNS resolution kicks in. Here's what happens behind the scenes:

1. The browser asks a DNS resolver (usually provided by your internet service provider) what IP address is associated with your domain.
2. The resolver queries a chain of DNS servers, starting with root servers, then top-level domain servers (like those for .ca or .com), and finally your domain's authoritative nameservers.
3. Your authoritative nameservers - typically ns1.dotcanada.com and ns2.dotcanada.com - return the IP address stored in your DNS records.
4. The browser connects to that IP address and loads your website.

Domain Name Structure

A domain name has two main parts: the second-level domain (the name you choose, like mybusiness) and the top-level domain or TLD (the extension, like .ca, .com, or .net). Together they form your full domain name.

Who Manages Domains?

Domain names are overseen by registries. For example, .ca domains are managed by CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority) and require a Canadian presence to register. dotCanada acts as an accredited registrar, allowing you to register and manage your domain in one place.

If you have questions about domain names or need help getting started, feel free to contact our support team.