What is a domain name?
A domain name is a unique name that identifies a particular website on the Internet, such as ArtHost.biz.

Do I have to already have my own domain name to have an ArtHost.biz website?
No. If you don't have your own domain name, we can supply you with a URL to which your website can be visited, free of charge. The name would be an ArtHost.biz name, such as http://yoursite.ArtHost.biz where "yoursite" is the login name you use when signing up for your account.

So, in a nutshell, what do I do regarding a domain name?

• Decide to a) either purchase one/use one you own, or b) use a free ArtHost.biz name (see directly above)
  
  
• What to do if a) If you decide to purchase one or already own one you wish to use, you must go to where you purchased your domain name, and change the Nameserver info there, also known as DNS info, to reflect ONLY our two nameservers, which are shown below. Delete any other nameserver info which may already be there.
  
  
• In the Domain page of your ArtHost.biz admin area, simply enter the domain name you purchased or already own
  
  Done!
  
  
• What to do if b) if you want a free ArtHost.biz name instead, such as http://yoursite.ArtHost.biz where "yoursite" is whatever you desire, then use "yoursite" as your login name when first signing up with ArtHost.Biz
  
  
• Done!

What are your nameservers?
Primary Name Server = NS1.ArtHost.biz
Primary Name Server's IP Address (if asked for) = 216.128.31.132)
Secondary Name Server = NS2.ArtHost.biz
Secondary Name Server's IP Address (if asked for) = 216.128.31.133)

How do I decide on a domain name?
Although you can not really make a mistake while choosing a domain name, there are some things to keep in mind, such as:

• Is it easy to remember?
• Does it accurately reflect your website content?
• Is it hard to spell or easy to misspell?

Do you host foreign domain names?
Yes. All domain names will work with ArtHost.biz accounts

How do I purchase a domain name?
You purchase your domain from an accredited domain name merchant, such as tucows.com, godaddy.com, or internic.com. They currently are charging some of the lowest prices we have found. Essentially, you:

1. Search for your domain name.

2. Select your domain name or an alternative from a list.

3. Submit the registration form with your information and purchase your domain name.

What do I do after I purchase my domain name?
You need to modify the nameservers listed for your domain name to reflect our nameservers, listed below. You can do this when you purchase your domain name, or afterwards. But you must do it where you purchased your domain name, we cannot do this for you.

How long does it take for modified nameservers to "take effect"?
Once the modify request has been submitted, it can take anywhere from 24-72 hours. Usually this is much closer to 24 hours. It usually depends on the time that your request is received at your registrar (most only process requests once a day).

Your domain is set up immediately on our servers once you enter it into the admin. It is the timing at the registrar that will determine how long it takes for the transfer to be "visible".