February 11, 2025
Lagos, Nigeria
Business Domain Hosting

Differences between domain and addon domain from webhosting to trust – BThost Nigeria

In the digital world, a domain is like an address that identifies a specific website or group of web pages online. It’s what you type into your browser to visit a site. domain extension or top-level domain (TLD) (such as “.com”,”.com.ng” ‘.us”.online”.org”, “.net”). Together, they form the complete web address, such as “bolactech.com.ng“.

Domains simplify internet navigation. Instead of grappling with complex numerical IP addresses, users can enter a domain name that’s easy to remember and connect with a specific website or service.

To get a domain, Individuals or businesses register domains through accredited domain registrars. When a domain is registered, the owner receives exclusive rights to use it for a set length of time, which is usually renewed annually or for longer durations.

WHY ALL BUSINESSES NEEDS DOMAIN NAME 

Owning a domain name is crucial for any business serious about dominating online. It’s your virtual turf, the place where customers can find you without hassle. Having your own domain isn’t just about having an address—it’s about showing you mean business. It’s like staking your claim in the digital landscape, proving you’re here to stay. Your domain name isn’t just some random string of letters; it’s your brand’s online identity. It’s what sticks in people’s minds when they think of your business. Choosing the right domain isn’t just about being catchy; it’s about making sure it reflects who you are and what you do. When your domain is on your ads, business cards, and everywhere else, it’s like putting your brand on the map.

With your own domain, you have control over how you present yourself online. You can make your website look and feel exactly like your brand. Plus, if your domain name includes keywords that matter to your business, it can help you get noticed in search engines. And let’s not forget about protection—having your domain registered means no one can mess with your brand or steal your thunder.

Having a domain isn’t just about having a website; it’s about having a professional edge. Think about it—having an email address like [email protected] looks a lot sharper than a generic one. It shows you’re legit and ready to do business.

So, if you’re serious about making your mark online, getting your own domain name is step one. It’s not just about being online; it’s about being in charge and making sure everyone knows it. Domain are required for creating an online presence, whether for personal websites, corporations, or organizations. They are used to host websites, handle email services, and run other internet programs. Essentially, a domain is a simple label that directs readers to specific information on the internet, making it easier to navigate the vast digital environment.

WHAT IS ADDON DOMAIN 

An addon domain is a domain that works exactly like your primary domain and may be hosted on your web hosting account. It enables you to administer several websites, each with unique features and content, from a single hosting account.

HOW TO CREATE ADDON DOMAIN

Log in to Your Control Panel: Start by logging into the control panel provided by your web hosting company or login to your hosting platform and click to redirect cpanel. This is where you manage your website files and settings.

Navigate to Domain Settings: Look for a section labeled something like “Domains,” “Addon Domains,” or “Domain Manager.” Click on it to access domain-related settings.

 

 

Add New Domain: In the domain settings section, you’ll find an option to add a new domain or addon domain. Click on this option to begin.

Enter Domain Details: Enter the domain name you want to add as an addon domain (e.g., “mydomain.com“). Some hosts may also ask for a subdomain (e.g., “subdomain.example.com“) and specify a directory where the addon domain’s files will be stored on your server.

Create the Addon Domain: Once you’ve entered the domain details and set up any necessary directories, click on the button to create the addon domain. Your hosting provider will then set up the necessary DNS records and create the directory structure on the server for your addon domain.

Configure Email (If Needed): If you want to set up email accounts using your addon domain (e.g., [email protected]), you can usually do this through the email section of your hosting control panel. It allows you to manage email addresses specific to your addon domain.

Test Your Website: Once files are uploaded and settings are configured, test your addon domain by typing its URL (e.g., http://example.com) into a web browser. Ensure your website loads correctly without any issues.

Manage Your Addon Domain: Going forward, you can manage your addon domain through the domain settings in your hosting control panel. This includes tasks like renewing the domain, updating DNS settings, and managing associated email accounts.

HOW DOES ADDON DOMAIN WORK

Here is how it works: You tell your hosting provider you’re adding a new domain to your existing setup. This new domain taps into the same resources (like server space and bandwidth) as your main domain. It’s a smart move because it saves you from splashing out on separate hosting plans for each site.

Each addon domain operates independently, like different gears in your gearbox. You can set up unique websites, install different applications (think WordPress or whatever floats your boat), and run separate email accounts—all under their own domain names.

To keep things in gear, you manage addon domains through your hosting control panel. That’s where you upload files, tweak settings, and fine-tune each website’s performance.

While addon domains share resources, they’re distinct beasts online. You manage them individually, directing each domain to its specific spot on the server. This way, visitors can cruise to each website using its own slick domain name.

Bottom line: Addon domains are all about boosting your online horsepower without the hassle of managing multiple hosting accounts. It’s like having a turbocharged setup where you can flex multiple websites under one hood, each roaring with its own unique identity.

50 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DOMAIN AND ADDON DOMAIN

AREADOMAINADDON DOMAIN
Primary PurposeA domain serves as the main web address for a websitean addon domain is an additional domain
Independencedomain has its own independent identity and is typically used for a single websitean addon domain shares resources with other domains
Hosting RequirementA domain requires its own hosting plan and resourcesaddon domain shares resources with the primary domain
ManagementDomains are managed individually, often with separate control panelsaddon domains are managed through a single hosting control panel.
RegistrationDomains need to be registered through domain registrarswhile addon domains are created within the hosting account.
DNS ManagementDNS settings are managed individually for each domainaddon domains share DNS management with the primary domain.
Email AccountsDomains can have email accounts associated with themwhile addon domains can share or have separate email accounts
SSL CertificatesSSL certificates are required individually for each domain to enable HTTPaddon domains may share SSL certificates with the primary domain.
File StructureDomains have their own root directories for files and contentwhile addon domains are typically housed within a subdirectory of the primary domain's root directory.
Hosting ResourcesDomains have dedicated hosting resourcesaddon domains share resources (disk space, bandwidth, etc.) with the primary domain.
Domain HostingHosting providers offer domain registration and management servicesaddon domains are created and managed within the hosting account.
  • Primary Purpose: A domain serves as the main web address for a website, while an addon domain is an additional domain hosted under the same hosting account.
  • Independence: A domain has its own independent identity and is typically used for a single website, whereas an addon domain shares resources with other domains under the same hosting account.
  • Hosting Requirement: A domain requires its own hosting plan and resources, whereas an addon domain shares resources with the primary domain and other addons.
  • Management: Domains are managed individually, often with separate control panels or management interfaces, while addon domains are managed through a single hosting control panel.
  • Registration: Domains need to be registered through domain registrars, while addon domains are created within the hosting account.
  • DNS Management: DNS settings are managed individually for each domain, while addon domains share DNS management with the primary domain.
  • Renewal: Domains require renewal annually or as per the chosen registration period, whereas addon domains are renewed along with the hosting account.
  • Email Accounts: Domains can have email accounts associated with them (e.g., [email protected]), while addon domains can share or have separate email accounts depending on hosting configurations.
  • SSL Certificates: SSL certificates are required individually for each domain to enable HTTPS, while addon domains may share SSL certificates with the primary domain.
  • File Structure: Domains have their own root directories for files and content, while addon domains are typically housed within a subdirectory of the primary domain’s root directory.
  • Domain Privacy: Privacy protection services can be used to shield domain owner information for both domains and addon domains.
  • Hosting Resources: Domains have dedicated hosting resources, while addon domains share resources (disk space, bandwidth, etc.) with the primary domain.
  • Domain Extensions: Domains can have various extensions (.com, .net, .org, etc.), whereas addon domains usually have the same extension as the primary domain.
  • SEO: Domains need separate SEO strategies and efforts to improve rankings, while addon domains may benefit from the SEO efforts of the primary domain.
  • Domain Transfers: Domains can be transferred between registrars or owners, while addon domains are transferred along with the hosting account.
  • Subdomains: Domains can have subdomains (e.g., blog.yourdomain.com), whereas addon domains do not have their own subdomains unless configured separately.
  • Domain Parking: Domains can be parked or monetized with ads when not in use, while addon domains can be parked but usually point to active websites.
  • Trademark Protection: Domains may require trademark protection to prevent misuse, whereas addon domains are typically associated with the primary domain’s brand.
  • Brand Identity: Domains contribute significantly to brand identity and recognition, while addon domains are extensions of the primary brand.
  • Domain Ownership: Domain ownership is verified through WHOIS records, while addon domains are associated with the ownership of the hosting account.
  • Domain Authority: Domains gain authority based on backlinks and content quality, while addon domains benefit from the authority of the primary domain.
  • Domain Metrics: Metrics like domain age and history impact SEO for domains, whereas addon domains may inherit some metrics from the primary domain.
  • Domain Extensions: Domains vary by country code (e.g., .co.uk, .fr, .us), whereas addon domains typically share the same extension as the primary domain.
  • Domain Expired: Expired domains can be auctioned off for purchase, while addon domains typically expire with the hosting account.
  • Domain Forwarding: Domains can forward traffic to other domains or URLs, while addon domains can forward traffic to pages within the same hosting account.
  • Domain Monitoring: Services monitor domain availability and performance, while addon domains are monitored alongside the hosting account.
  • Domain Auctions: Domains can be bought and sold in auctions, while addon domains are included with the hosting account and not typically sold separately.
  • Domain Parking: Domains can be parked with registrars for temporary holding, while addon domains can be parked but usually point to active websites.
  • Domain Hosting: Hosting providers offer domain registration and management services, whereas addon domains are created and managed within the hosting account.
  • Domain Extensions: Domains have various extensions based on global or country codes, while addon domains share the same extension as the primary domain.
  • Domain Purchase: Domains are bought and sold by registrars, while addon domains are included with hosting plans and not separately purchasable.
  • Domain Control: Domains have control over their hosting services while addon dont

MISTAKE PEOPLE DO WHEN CHOOSING A DOMAIN NAME 

  • Length: Some folks go for domain names that end up being too long, making them hard to remember.
  • Complexity: Using words that are overly complicated or have unusual spellings can confuse visitors.
  • Hyphens: While trying to create a unique name, some use hyphens between words, which can be awkward and harder to type correctly.
  • Numbers: Including numbers in a domain can lead to confusion (like using “4” instead of “four”), making it less intuitive for users.
  • Trademark Issues: Not checking if a domain name infringes on someone else’s trademark can lead to legal trouble down the road.
  • Misspellings: Deliberately misspelling words to find an available domain might seem clever, but it can also make your site look unprofessional.
  • Trendy Names: Jumping on a current trend for a domain name might seem like a good idea at the time, but it could quickly become outdated.
  • Geographical Limitations: Choosing a domain name that’s too specific to a certain location might limit your audience unnecessarily.
  • Non-.com Extensions: While there are many domain extensions available (.net, .org, etc.), straying from .com without a good reason can confuse potential visitors.
  • Long-term Relevance: Not thinking about how the domain name will fit with your business as it grows and evolves can lead to rebranding headaches later on.
  • Keyword Stuffing: Stuffing too many keywords into your domain name in an attempt to boost SEO can make it sound unnatural and spammy.
  • Pronunciation: Opting for a domain name that’s hard to pronounce or unclear when spoken aloud can make word-of-mouth marketing challenging.
  • Memorability: Choosing a domain that’s forgettable or doesn’t stick in people’s minds means they might not remember how to find your site later.
  • Ambiguity: Using words or phrases that could have multiple meanings might confuse potential visitors about what your site is really about.
  • Restrictions: Failing to check if there are any restrictions on the domain name, especially if it involves sensitive topics, can lead to complications.
  • Social Media Availability: Forgetting to check if the domain name is available as a username on social media platforms can hurt your brand consistency.
  • Legal Risks: Not doing a thorough check to ensure your chosen domain name doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks or copyrights can result in legal issues.
  • Poor Brand Fit: Selecting a domain name that doesn’t align well with your brand’s identity or values can confuse customers.
  • Lack of Research: Not researching similar domain names already in use could mean accidentally sending traffic to a competitor.
  • Ignoring Feedback: Not getting input from others on your domain name choice might mean missing potential problems or better alternatives.
  • Competitor Names: Not checking what domain names your competitors are using might result in unintentionally promoting their brand instead of your own.
  • Unique Selling Point: Failing to highlight what makes your business unique in your domain name means missing out on a valuable branding opportunity.
  • Domain History: Not looking into the history of a domain name to see if it has been penalized by search engines or used for spammy purposes in the past can hurt your SEO efforts.
  • Localization: Ignoring how your domain name translates or resonates in different languages and cultures can limit your global reach.
  • Short-term Trends: Choosing a trendy name that’s hot right now but might not be relevant in a few years can lead to needing a rebrand sooner than expected.
  • Niche Limitation: Opting for a domain that’s too niche or specific might limit your business’s potential for growth and expansion into other areas.
  • Brand Association: Not ensuring your domain name clearly reflects your brand can lead to confusion among customers.
  • Generic Names: Going with a generic name that doesn’t stand out from competitors can make it harder for your business to differentiate itself.
  • SEO Ignorance: Not considering the SEO implications of your domain name choice might mean missing out on valuable organic search traffic.
  • Exclusionary Terms: Using terms in your domain name that could unintentionally exclude certain groups or demographics might limit your audience.
  • Broker Deception: Trusting domain brokers without verifying the value or availability of a domain can lead to overpaying or choosing a less valuable option.
  • Domain Age: Ignoring how the age of a domain might affect its SEO performance and credibility can impact your website’s ranking.
  • Expired Domains: Buying an expired domain without understanding its history or potential penalties can hurt your SEO efforts.
  • Budget Mismanagement: Not budgeting enough for a premium domain name, if necessary, might mean settling for a less effective choice.
  • Overpaying: Paying too much in domain auctions without understanding the true value of the domain can lead to unnecessary expenses.
  • Ownership Clarity: Failing to ensure clear ownership and administrative rights over your domain name can cause headaches later.
  • Payment Security: Using insecure payment methods when purchasing a domain name can put your financial information at risk.
  • Hidden Costs: Not checking for hidden fees associated with domain registration, renewal, or additional services can lead to unexpected expenses.
  • Auto-renewal Setup: Forgetting to set up auto-renewal for your domain name can result in accidental expiration and loss of your web presence.
  • Poor Support: Choosing a domain registrar with unreliable customer support can make resolving issues or making changes more difficult.
  • DNS Setup: Not correctly configuring DNS settings after purchasing your domain name can lead to website downtime or accessibility issues.
  • Hosting Compatibility: Picking a domain that’s incompatible with your chosen web hosting provider can delay launching your website.
  • Privacy Concerns: Not opting for domain privacy protection can expose your personal information in public WHOIS records, leading to spam or privacy issues.
  • Backup Options: Not having alternative domain name choices in case your preferred name isn’t available can slow down your website launch.
  • Legal Agreements: Failing to read and understand the legal agreements associated with domain registration can lead to unexpected obligations or restrictions.
  • SSL Certificate Fit: Not ensuring your domain name is compatible with SSL certificates for secure connections can affect visitor trust and security.
  • Content Management: Ignoring how your domain name integrates with your content management system (CMS) can lead to compatibility issues or extra work.
  • Accessibility: Not considering how your domain name affects users with disabilities can lead to a less inclusive online experience.
  • User Experience: Overlooking how your domain name contributes to overall user experience can affect how visitors perceive and interact with your website.
  • Future-proofing: Not planning for changes in technology, industry trends, or business growth when choosing your domain name can result in needing a rebrand sooner than anticipated.

 

STORY OF A FIRST DOMAIN NAME

Years ago, there was a young woman named Sarah who had a dream of combining her love for nature with her fascination for technology. She envisioned creating an online space where people could immerse themselves in the beauty of gardens, learn about sustainable living, and connect with others who shared their passion. After much thought, she settled on the perfect name for her website: “ElysianGardens.com.

Sarah worked tirelessly to make her dream a reality. She dedicated herself to curating content and building a community around Elysian Gardens, despite facing challenges like competition and the ever-changing online world. But she never lost sight of her goal.

As time passed, Elysian Gardens blossomed into more than just a website—it became a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts everywhere. People of all backgrounds found comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging within its digital walls, all thanks to Sarah’s unwavering dedication and the magic of the domain name “ElysianGardens.com.”

Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity. It shows that with determination, you can create a digital space where people can reconnect with nature and each other, no matter the challenges you face.

STORY OF A FIRST ADDON DOMAIN NAME

Once upon a time, there was this blogger named Emily. She’d been sharing her thoughts and stories on her blog for ages and it was going great. But then she got this idea to start offering her writing services on a separate website. So, she did some digging and found out she could actually add another website to her existing hosting account. Cool, right?

So, Emily added this new domain called “emilywrites.com” to her hosting account. It was like having two websites but managing them both from one place. She was stoked!

She worked her butt off on her new website, making it look all profesh with her writing samples and stuff. And because of this addon domain thing, she could easily link her blog posts to her new website. So handy!

Word got around about Emily’s writing services, and soon she had more clients than she could handle. But managing everything from one hosting account made it a whole lot easier. Emily was pumped about her growing freelance biz, and she knew that addon domain feature was a big part of her success.

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