I'm sorry for any dumb questions I may ask, but this is my first time registering a domain name.
Suppose I want to register tomsmith.com.

The website for this domain won't be set up right away; I simply want to secure it for myself.

Where is the most optimal and affordable place to do this?

Hello!

The cost of registering a domain name varies depending on the zone you choose. Different registrars have significantly different prices, especially for certain extensions. For example, you can purchase a domain from reputable registrars for $5, but when it comes to renewing it, the price can increase to $15, not to mention the additional paid services that may be required.

An alternative option is to consider getting an extension from SpaceWeb, although it might be slightly more expensive.

If the English language makes you uncomfortable, you can opt for slightly pricier options like Dynadot or Beget, or even consider international registrars like Porkbun.com or Sav.com.

When registering a domain, it is important to consider where you plan to rent and host your website. Instead of solely focusing on the initial price of domain registration, pay attention to the cost of renewal as well, as it can be unexpectedly high.

Keep in mind that if you infringe on someone's rights with your chosen domain name, they can take legal action to seize it from you. On the other hand, if someone expresses interest in acquiring your domain, it might be easier for them to purchase it from you. This is why the domain industry exists in the first place.

It's worth noting that there have been numerous cases where the court ruled in favor of the domain owner. For instance, the domain nissan.com remained with an individual who shared the same name, despite the carmaker's efforts to remove him by investing millions of dollars.

Another notable example is the case of the domain dom, which was an attempt by an Internet provider to take over the domain. However, the court ruled in favor of the owner, who happened to be a real estate agency.

These cases demonstrate the complexity and legal intricacies surrounding domain ownership.

There are many options out there for registering a domain name, and it can get a bit overwhelming.

First of all, you'll want to look for a domain registrar, which is a company that manages the reservation of Internet domain names. Some of the most popular and affordable registrars include GoDaddy, Namecheap, and Google Domains. Each of these have their pros and cons, so it's good to do a bit of research.

GoDaddy is often recommended because they have a large market presence and sometimes offer discounts for the first year. However, they can be a bit pricey for renewals, so keep that in mind. Namecheap, on the other hand, is known for providing good customer service and very affordable prices for both registration and renewal. Plus, they often have promotions running, which is always a plus.

Google Domains is a more recent player in the market. It's very user-friendly and integrates well with other Google services, which could be beneficial if you plan to use things like Google Workspace for email or collaboration tools. Their pricing is straightforward with no hidden fees, but you may not find as many discounts as other registrars.

Once you choose a registrar, you'll simply go to their website, search for tomsmith.com to see if it's available, and follow the prompts to register it. Make sure you include WHOIS privacy protection if it's offered. This way your personal information won't be publicly accessible, which is a good idea for privacy reasons.

As for the cost, domain registration usually ranges from 10 to 20 dollars per year. Don't forget to budget for renewal fees, which are often the same amount or slightly higher.
Locking in a domain name now is smart, even if you don't have a website ready, because domain names can get snatched up quickly.