When you type in the name of a website your computers browser (the program you use to view the internet) contacts the main computer that controls all domain names. This main control system is called the Domain Name System or DNS .
Use the DotGO control panel to check the settings and purchased additional domain names to use with your business website builder.
Your computer asks the DNS where the website you want is located on the internet. The DNS replies and directs you straight to the site. All these processes take a fraction of a second, so the user doesn't realise its happening.
Every Domain name is allocated what is called a Nameserver. A Nameserver is simply the address of the computer (or server) that your website sits on. There are usually two addresses called Nameserver 1 and Nameserver 2. The second nameserver simply acts as a backup to the first.
For example the Nameservers for Reason8.com are:
Nameserver 1: ns.reason8.com
Nameserver 2 : ns1.reason8.com
When you give your domain name a nameserver it is very much like pointing a big arrow from the name to your website. Which is why we talk about Pointing your domain name.
Although the very process is simple after you modify the nameservers it can take up to 24 hours before any changes are seen. This is because all changes have to be acknowledged and recorded in a number of places on the internet.
The simple answer is yes. A nameserver can be split into two parts, the 'A record' and the 'MX record'.
The A record controls your website and the MX record controls your email. When you change the nameserver you automatically change them both.
If you already receive an email service from a third party, we recommend you stay with them unless you are unhappy. This is because when you change your email provider all of your email settings will change. You will need to reset any other programs or devices you use to retrieve your email, such as Outlook or your mobile phone. While these changes are being made you will lose any emails sent.
Click here for more About pointing your domain name to Reason8
If you are unhappy with the company you registered your domain name with it is possible to move it to a new provider. How you go about moving the name will depend on the names ending such as whether it is a .com or .co.uk etc. For more information on domain name endings please see our guide Changing your domain registration company
We are the DotGO: where everything is included and everything is managed for you, all at no extra cost.
We design websites to grow your business and wow your customers.
We are a UK company filled with passionate website designers and clever writers.
Friendly, professional and fast customer service is at the heart of everything we do. Our designers and unique technology make your website quick, responsive and secure, giving you the best chance of ranking well on Google.
If you need a shop, our own powerful ecommerce platform integrates beautifully. We train you to use our simple tools to update your website yourself. Our UK support team are on hand to provide sensible support and advice whenever you need it. We even power your professional email service, so you stay in contact with your customers by phone, tablet or computer.
Oh, and the best bit? It's cheaper than you may think, and we can get started right now.