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TETRAMEDIA

Understanding Domains vs. URLs: A Simple Guide for Small Business Owners

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When you're building a website, or hiring someone like us to do it for you — one of the first questions that comes up is: “Do you already own a domain?”


For far too many small business owners, this sparks some confusion.


Maybe you've heard of a domain before. Maybe you bought one five years ago but never used it. Maybe you're not even sure what the difference is between a domain and a URL — so let's break it down.


🧠 What Is a Domain?

Your domain name is the web address where people can find your site. Think of it like your digital street address.



Domains are usually purchased through domain registrars like GoDaddy, Google Domains, Namecheap, etc. Once you buy a domain, it’s yours — as long as you renew it annually (average $10–$20/year).


Pro tip: Even if you’re not ready for a website, you should buy your domain early so nobody else grabs it.

🌐 What Is a URL?

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the full link to a specific page or file on your site.



So while your domain is the overall name of your website, a URL is the exact route to a certain spot on it.


Think of it like:

  • Domain = Your Storefront

  • URL = The Aisle + Product Shelf inside your Store


🛠️ How It All Works Together

When we build a site, we connect your domain to a hosting platform (like Wix, which we use for most of our clients). From there, we organize all the content — Home, About, Contact, etc. — each with their own URL.

You don’t need to worry about the tech side — that’s what we’re here for. But it helps to know how these pieces fit:

Term

What It Means

Example

Domain

Your website name

tetra-media.com

URL

Link to a page on your site

https://tetra-media.com/contact

Hosting

Where your site lives online

Wix, Squarespace, etc.

Registrar

Where you buy domains

GoDaddy, Google Domains

🤔 Should I Buy a Domain Myself?

Yes — if you're confident managing it and know where to find it later.

No — if you’re unsure. We can help buy and manage it for you under your ownership.


Some clients come to us not knowing who owns their domain or where it was registered. If that’s you, don’t stress — we’ve seen it all and can help track it down.


💡 Choosing the Right Domain

Here are a few tips if you’re buying a domain:

  • Keep it simple and short. Avoid hyphens or weird spellings.

  • Match your business name. Consistency builds trust.

  • Use a .com if possible. It’s still the most trusted.

  • Buy similar versions. If your name has multiple spellings or common typos, grab those too.


✅ Final Thoughts

Understanding your domain vs. URL might seem small, but they’re a huge part of your digital presence. Getting them right means your business is easier to find, looks more professional, and is easier to manage long-term.


📣 Need Help With Your Website?

Whether you're launching from scratch or cleaning up a mess someone else left behind — we've got you covered.


👉 https://www.tetra-media.com/contact Or DM us directly — we’re always down to talk shop.

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