Are URL and Domain the Same Thing?

One of the most common terms in the internet world, domain and URL (Uniform Resource Locator), are often confused with each other. However, both are different concepts and have important differences. A domain name is the address of a website, while a URL is the full link used to access that address.

In this article, we will examine the differences between domain and URL in detail and discuss topics such as domain inquiry, domain purchase, and the importance of premium domains.

What is a Domain?

A domain is the address of a website on the internet. Internet users use easy-to-remember domain names instead of IP addresses to access websites. For example, instead of an IP address like 192.168.1.1, a domain name like google.com is used to access a website.

Domain names are complemented by certain extensions:

• .com – The most popular extension for general commercial use.
• .net – Used for technology and network services.
• .org – Preferred by non-profit organizations.
• Country-coded domains (ccTLDs) such as .tr, .uk, .de are customized for specific countries.
• New generation domain extensions such as .blog, .shop, .tech are suitable for sectoral uses.

Some generic domains fall into the premium domain category because they have high search volume and brand value. Premium domains provide a great advantage in terms of SEO and have a high investment value.

What is a URL (Uniform Resource Locator)?

A URL is a link that specifies the address of a web page on the internet. While a domain name is the address of a site, a URL contains the full address that provides access to specific pages within that site.

A URL consists of the following components:

• Protocol: HTTP or HTTPS (secure connection).
• Domain: For example, example.com.
• Subdirectory and Page Path: For example, /blog/url-and-domain-difference.

An example full URL structure: https://www.example.com/blog/whats-domain

Available at:

• https:// → Protocol
• www.example.com → Domain (domain name)
• /blog/whats-domain → Subpage path

As you can see, the domain name is only part of the URL, while the URL shows the exact location of that page.

Differences between Domain and URL

In summary, every URL contains a domain name, but not every domain name is a URL. The domain name is only part of the URL.

Domain Name Search and Finding Available Domains

Before you make a domain purchase, you need to check the availability of the domain name you have chosen by making a domain check.

Domain inquiry steps are as follows:

1. Search among domain registrars (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, etc.) using the domain checker.
2. If a suitable domain name is not found, consider alternative extensions (.net, .co, .org).
3. Review premium domain name options. Generic domains with high SEO value can offer great advantages in the long run.

Domain Name Purchase and Registration Process

If the domain of your choice is available, the domain purchase process is as follows:

1. Choose a registrar – Register through a trusted domain name registrar.
2. Register the domain name – Register your chosen domain name for a specific period of time (usually between 1 and 10 years).
3. Configure DNS settings – Activate your domain name by connecting it to your web hosting service.
4. Keep track of renewal dates – Prevent loss by renewing your domain before it expires.

Generic and premium domains in particular can fetch high prices on the secondary market. Therefore, buying domain names early can offer great opportunities in the future.

Tips for Choosing the Right Domain Name

• Understand the difference between a domain name and a URL and choose the most appropriate domain name for your website.
• Choose short and memorable domain names to make it easier for users to find your site.
• If you can't find a suitable domain name, consider alternative extensions or premium domain options.
• Choose generic domains for SEO so you can increase your organic traffic.
• When buying a domain name, avoid legal issues by checking for trademark registration.