A Domain or domain name is a term used to refer to a website’s unique, human-readable identifier or “address.” They are comprised of three parts: A top-level domain, a domain name proper, and an optional subdomain.

Technically speaking, “Domain” refers to the three elements together, while “Domain name” indicates the middle part.

Top-level domains must be registered with the Web Internet Registry, and a yearly fee is required to maintain the registry.

The pieces of a domain name

Top-level Domain (TLD): This is the official designation to the suffix at the end of a domain name. The most recognizable being: .com, .net, .org, and .edu. However, there are over 1000 other possible TLDs to choose from. Some designate territories (.ca for Canada) or even things (like .book)

Domain name: This is the second level of a domain’s hierarchy. Domain names are usually purchased from a registrar – a company that manages the reservation of domain names – and represent the unique and specific location of a site.

Subdomain: This is the third level of hierarchy on a domain, added in front of the others. The “www” is the subdomain.

What’s a root domain?

Initially created in the context of DNS (domain name servers), it is a term used to designate the combination of a domain name and a top-level domain. Root domains form a complete website address and are usually where your home page is located.“overthetopseo.com” would be this website’s root domain.