Computers on the Internet are identified by a number (known as an IP address). These are not easy to remember, and the situation will get worse as the Internet grows and the numbers get larger. The solution is the domain naming system (DNS), which allows an address to be associated with a unique name. For example, this website is located on a computer with the address 77.72.202.100, but you probably got here by typing or clicking on www.malvernweb.co.uk. DNS works just like a big telephone directory, spread all around the world.

So will you need a domain name? The answer is of course yes, because without one it is almost impossible for people to find your website or send you email. Once you've purchased your own unique name, you can keep it forever (subject to regular renewal fees).