Domain Name Terminology
The name used to identify a web site on the Internet. There are levels to domains so that the owner of abc.com can also use public.abc.com or private.abc.com in addition to any other prefix desired. These examples are called sub-domains of abc.com. Technically even the .com at the end is a domain, but we call .com, .net, .org, .us and the many other suffix domains top level domains. They are used strictly to classify. The rules are very loose so if you are a non-profit you don't have to use .org though that is what people have come to expect.
Price:
The price is pretty variable for registering a domain name on the Internet. If you use Network Solutions then you can expect to pay up to twice the price you can get elsewhere, but you are registering with the source, the central registrar. Some people think this will ensure they get changes done faster, but I don't buy it and I don't register my domains with Network Solutions. Look at our list of links to see who I recommend for domain registration.
Availability: (Good Luck)
While there are literally as many domain names as there are combinations of letters and numbers there are some rules for how to get a good domain name. While we will talk about that exercise alot in the future for now realize that if you thought of it then it is likely taken. Check before you build your expectations too high. If you want to check go to www.NetworkSolutions.com and they have the faculity for you to search for domain names and determine which are taken and which are available. Any site that sells domain names (registers them) will also have this functionality, but I recommend you visit Network Solutions at least once (who knows maybe their prices will drop).