Choose the right domain name...

Choosing the right domain name is vital. You don't want to be stuck with a name that will take you no where in terms of the number of visitors it will attract.

For example: If you're planning to buy and sell cars online, it will be better to register cars.co.za than pietsekarre.co.za

Check if the domain name is available for registration...

If you want to check which co.za domain names are available you should vist the website of the co.za Domain Administration in South Africa. Type "co.za" in your web browser and hit enter. On the left hand side of their website under "Registration Information" you will find a link named: "Whois (Registration Details)" Click on that link and it will take you to a web page with a search box. Type the name of your proposed domain name in the search box and hit enter.

"This domain is available for registration. The first correct application received and processed for this domain should be successful." If you get this message your proposed domain name is still available for registration. If you don't get this message, then the proposed domain name is not available. You will have to search for another domain name. The secret is to keep going until you find the perfect domain name.

Register the domain name...

Ok, let's assume your proposed domain name is available for registration. You can then go ahead and register the domain name in your name by following the easy instructions on the co.za Domain Administration website. You will find everything you need to know on how to register a domain name by visiting the link named "Howto Guide" under "Domain Registration" on the left hand side of their website.

Registering co.za domain names yourself by following the easy instructions will save you a lot of money. In fact, you will only pay R50 per domain per year and will have total control over the relevant domain name!

discreet pleasures

If you choose IX Webhosting as your hosting provider you need to add the domain name to your account first before sending the registration through to the co.za Domain Administration. If you don't do this the name servers will not be accepted. In order to do this you have to go to the main control panel of your IX Webhosting account. Click on "Domains" and then on "Add new domain". Fill in the necessary details and then click on "Submit". If you have trouble doing this be sure to submit a support ticket by clicking on the "Ticket Center" link at the bottom of the main control panel page.

If you choose HostMonster as your hosting provider you need to contact support first and ask them to add the domain name to your account first before sending the registration through to the co.za Domain Administration. You will then have to wait on HostMonster before sending off the registration. If you don't do this the name servers will not be accepted. 

There are many other ways to make money online, but we're confident that the above-mentioned ways of making money online will provide you with a good starting point without you having to risk a fortune.

Remember, there are many other considerations to take into account when starting a new website in terms of content, search engine optimisation (SEO) and all of that. The advice given here must only be seen as a Beginners Guide on how to make money online in South Africa.

If you follow our advice, which is free like we've already stated, you will save yourself a lot of frustration, time and money.

Good luck with your online money making endeavours. Enjoy every bit of it!

I leave you with a bit of inspiration from one of the world's greatest entrepreneurs...

"I don't believe that that little word 'can't' should stop you. If you don't have the right experience to reach your goal, look for another way in. If you want to fly, get down to the airfield at the age of sixteen and make the tea. Keep your eyes open. Look and learn. You don't have to go to art school to be a fashion designer. Join a fashion company and push a broom. Work your way up" Richard Branson, Screw It Let's Do It.