I received an email the other day from a friend who asked me if I thought she had to use a domain name with .com – instead of .net or .info. She found a domain name she really liked…but .com wasn’t available. So – does she buy the name she wants with .net or .info or look for another name with .com? Here is what I told her…

When it comes to domain name extensions, most people are familiar with .com.

First, evaluate the purpose of your website.  If your website is designed to simply direct people to an affiliate page, then it won’t really matter what extension it has, since they are only going to visit it once anyway.  However, if a website is designed for repeat visits, people may not care about the site not having a .com.  Sites that contain updated information, games and message boards tend to be the type of sites that get repeat visitors.

Secondly, consider the memorable nature of  your domain name.  Is the name easy or hard to remember – or type? Your goal is to make it something they can easily remember and type – you don’t want to frustrate someone who leaves after not finding your site after a short while.

Thirdly, determine whether or not a domain name with an unconventional extension will rank higher in search engines than a domain name with a traditional one.

My opinion –  I recommend finding an easy to remember and type domain with a .com after it if your goal is to bring new visitors to the site.