Frequently Asked Questions

What is a domain name?

A domain name is an easy to remember name that points to an Internet web address. Registered domain names are unique - once registered the name is yours for at least one year. No one else can use the domain name. Domain names are not case sensitive, and are available with several different suffixes, some of the more popular being .com and .co.uk (the latter shows that you are based in the UK, but don't worry, Websites ending in this can be seen from all over the world).

Why should I have a domain name?

A domain name is you or your companies identity in cyberspace. Domain names are unique, so once registered it's yours and yours alone. A good domain name can in itself help to draw countless visitors to your Website. If you are a business setting up a Website a good domain name is essential to help portray a professional image.

Why do I need fast-name to register a domain for me?

There are lots of companies doing similar jobs to ourselves, however we believe we are one of the easiest to use and most reasonably priced around. With Fast-name you won't find lots of small print, and hidden charges later on if you want to transfer your name away from us, we don't believe in that, we like to keep things simple with a one off payment and a fast friendly service.

Are there any rules when choosing a domain?

UK domain registrations must be 3 or more characters in length. Domain names can consist of only alphanumeric characters and hyphens (-'s) (e.g. abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789-) Domain names can not start or end with a hyphen (-). The .ltd.uk and .plc.uk must exactly match your company name e.g. .ltd.uk/.plc.uk (Hyphens can be included). You should not register names that someone else has ownership or copyright/trade mark rights on. So registering microsoft.co.uk would get you in to trouble, unless of course you are Mr. Bill Gates.

What if the domain is already taken?

Domain names are sold on a first come first served basis, this is why it is so important to register and secure your domain as soon as possible. If the name you want is already taken try using slight variations, for instance add a hyphen or UK. e.g. instead of yourname.co.uk try your-name.co.uk or yournameuk.co.uk

Can I register a domain now for use later?

Yes - we recommend it. If you know what domain name you want, but are not ready to use it yet, don't hang about, it may be gone tomorrow. Register your domain name as soon as possible and we will look after it for you until you are ready to use it.

Can I move a domain name registered by Fast-name to another ISP?

You will find a lot of companies restrict the use and access of a domain and require you to keep the name with them, or charge you for moving it - not at Fast-name, it's yours, and you can move it where you wish. One of the great things about registering a domain name with Fast-name is that you don't even have to be ready to use it, we will look after it until you are, when if you require we can transfer it to another ISP, at no extra cost.

How long does it take to register a domain?

Once you complete the secure Online order form on our Website we get to work straight away registering your name (N.B. If paying by cheque we can not register the name until we are in receipt of the cheque). Once registered a domain name will take approximately 24 hours to become live, that is the time it will take before you will be able to do a search and see it registered to you.

Who owns the domain when registered?

Once registered the name belongs to you. After buying the domain name you can check it by searching for it using the WHOIS search engine under Search on the left hand side of the screen. You will see that the name is registered in your name, so it belongs to you!!