In the online business sphere, a domain name is a significant and valuable asset that a company requires to protect its brand identity. A domain name is a unique identifier that is used to locate a website on the internet. For example, the domain name for keNIC is “kenic.or.ke”. Domain names are registered with a domain registrar and are typically to be renewed on an annual basis.
Losing a domain name can be a significant setback for any business or individual that relies on its online presence for visibility and communication.
Here are some of the reasons why it is important to renew your domain before it expires and the steps to take to retain ownership of your registered domain;
Loss of Online Presence
When a domain name expires, the website associated with it will be suspended resulting in inaccessibility online. Lacking an online presence will result in a loss of web traffic, customers, and revenue.
Difficulty in recovering the domain name
Once a domain name has expired and is not renewed before the grace period lapses, it will be deleted becoming available for registration. In some cases, domain squatters may purchase expired domain names with the intent of selling them back to the original owner at a much higher price.
This can be a costly and time-consuming process for a business. Malicious individuals might use the newly registered domain to scam unsuspecting netizens using your brand name.
Negative impact on SEO
Search engines prioritize websites that have a long online history and established domain names. If a domain name expires, the website may lose its search engine rankings and visibility. This can be detrimental to a business’s online presence.
How to prevent your domain name from expiring;
Set up auto-renewal
Most domain registrars offer an auto-renewal option, which automatically renews the domain name on the expiration date. This is the easiest and most reliable way to ensure that your domain name remains in your possession.
Keep contact information up to date
Make sure that the contact information associated with your domain name is accurate and up to date. This will ensure that you receive renewal notices and other important information related to your domain name.
Register your domain name for a longer period
Consider registering your domain name for a longer period, such as two or three years. This will help to ensure that your domain name does not expire accidentally.
Set up reminders
If you prefer not to use the auto-renewal option, set up reminders for yourself to renew your domain name before it expires. This can be done using a calendar or reminder app.
In conclusion, a domain name is a valuable asset for any business that operates online and must be protected to maintain one’s brand identity. To prevent your domain name from expiring, set up auto-renewal, keep contact information up to date with your registrar, register your domain name for a longer period, and set up reminders.