When a Fediverse server is created, you have to give it its own name. This can be a domain name (example.com) or subdomain (social.example.com). People can use this server name when signing into their account on an app, or when using the server through a web browser.
The best domain names are usually short, easy to spell and memorable. You may want to avoid offensive words, as they can make it difficult to tell people about your server on other platforms which filter such words automatically.
Do I need to buy a new domain if I already have one?
If you already own a domain, you can use subdomains for all of your servers. Many people put their Mastodon server on the subdomain social.example.com, their PeerTube server on video.example.com etc.
Avoid mentioning the name of the software in your domain
It’s also probably a good idea to avoid mentioning your server’s software in its domain name. For example, if you were making a Mastodon server you probably shouldn’t mention the word Mastodon in the domain or subdomain. There are many reasons why:
- Software projects tend to change over the years, in their content, leadership or maintenance, and at some point you may prefer to switch your server to different software. It could be confusing for your users if your server mentions one kind of software but runs another.
- Software projects sometimes rename themselves, and this too can cause confusion if your domain refers to the old name.
- Software projects often trademark their names to prevent misuse, and only let servers use the name if they’re running that specific software. This could make it legally difficult for your server to transition to another kind of software in the future. (This isn’t a theoretical risk, this has actually happened in some cases.)
Couldn’t I just change the domain or subdomain if it causes difficulties?
You could change it, but it would cause far more trouble than it is worth. Changing a site’s domain or subdomain breaks links to it from other sites, breaks federation with other sites, and generally causes chaos technically. It’s much safer, easier and more reliable to just use a domain or subdomain that stays the same permanently.
Can I re-use a subdomain or domain from a defunct server on my new server?
It’s usually a bad idea to re-use subdomains or domains from existing servers that closed down. Click here for more info about this topic.
Can you provide a more detailed guide to choosing a domain name? Especially for non-technical people who haven’t done this before?
Yes, you can have a look at the Beginner’s Guide to Creating a Domain Name ⧉ over on Fedi.Tips’ sister site GrowYourOwn.Services