What is a Fully Qualified Domain Name?
A Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN) is an essential concept in networking and domain management.
It uniquely identifies a computer or network resource on the internet, allowing for precise addressing and routing.
Here's a guide to understanding what an FQDN is and how it's structured:
Structure of an FQDN
An FQDN consists of various parts, each with specific functions:
- Hostname: Examples include "www," "mail," "ftp," "forum," and "support."
- Domain: Such as "google," "elonmusk," "x," "starbase," etc.
- Top-level domain (TLD): These are extensions like ".com," ".net," ".org," ".co.uk," etc.
The complete FQDN combines these parts in the following format: "hostname.domain.TLD" (e.g., "www.google.com").
What Makes an FQDN?
An FQDN must contain all the aforementioned parts: hostname, domain, and TLD.
Missing any of these components means that the domain name is not fully qualified and cannot be used as a hostname.
Guidelines and Restrictions for Creating a Domain
When creating a new domain, adhere to the following rules:
- The hostname must be unique.
- The domain name must be available and between 2 and 63 characters long.
- The domain name can only consist of letters, numbers, and hyphens, but cannot start or end with a hyphen, nor contain spaces.
- The TLD must be supported by your DNS provider.
Additional Tips for Creating a Domain
Keep these considerations in mind:
- Select a hostname that resonates with users, is easy to remember, and is simple to type.
- Choose a domain name relevant to your business or website's purpose.
- Verify that your desired domain name is not already in use.
- Register the domain name promptly, and keep the registration up-to-date to avoid potential issues.
Summarization: An FQDN serves as a foundational element in online communication and website addressing. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that your domain names are fully qualified and adhere to best practices.
