Table of Contents
Introduction
Network Solutions is a domain registrar founded in 1979 in Herndon and is headquartered in Florida. The company is a subordinate of Web.com; a conglomerate that has acquired many other companies including Solid Cactus, and Register.com.
It offers a vast array of top-level domain solutions you can choose from, such as .com, .net, .biz, .org, and more. These options allow you to find the perfect domain name that suits your needs.
Beyond domain registration, Network Solutions offers a range of products, such as web hosting, web design, digital marketing services, and more.
But the issue here is: SHOULD YOU PURCHASE NETWORK SOLUTIONS DOMAINS OR NOT?
Let’s Cut To The Chase!
Buy It If:
- You want domain transfer services: The company provides guidance and support to transfer your domain from another registrar to its platform. This allows you to manage your domains in one place, and ensure the security of your site.
- You are unsure about a domain name: The platform allows you to search for your perfect domain name using its search tool. The platform gives you access to hundreds of domain name extensions you can leverage to build and protect your unique online brand.
- You desire to leverage AI domain generator: Supposing you’re the busy type or need some simple ways to generate a domain name, you can use the Network Solutions AI tool. The tool helps you to create names tailored to your brand.
- You need domain forwarding solution: If you have multiple domain names, you can redirect them to Network Solutions so that visitors can reach your main site.
- You seek domain privacy and protection: Keep your identity and website at maximum security using its privacy and protection tool. Get real-time SMS, hide your info, protect your site from blacklists, and more. This service comes with a price, though.
- You desire domain expiration protection: Don’t lose your domain when it expires by leveraging Network Solutions’ Domain Expiration Protection solution.
- You’re searching for premium domain names: Get domain names that are perfect for your brand. Even if the domain is registered to someone else, you can own it. Simply, place a certified offer, select a premium resale domain, bid on expired domains, and you’re good to go.
- You want to be listed on WHOIS search: The moment you register a domain name, Network Solutions submits your personal contact information to the WHOIS database, as required by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). People can search the availability of your domain name on the WHOIS search bar.
- You desire trademark protection: With Network Solutions, you can get trademark protection with AdultBlock. AdultBlock protects your brand from being compromised by adult-themed spaces. It uses .xxx, .sex, .porn, and .adult domain extensions to secure your reputation online.
- You seek a domain management solution: The platform provides a dedicated account manager who protects your brand and reduces security threats. You can also reduce your investment in domain portfolio. Get in touch with an expert via 1-855-250-6149.
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Don’t Buy If:
- You want a company with clean records: Be aware that Network Solutions has a history of customer deception. Read more about this in the “WHAT’S THE CATCH WITH NETWORK SOLUTIONS DOMAINS?” section. If you’re seeking a domain registrar with clean records, you might as well look elsewhere.
- You want excellent customer service: There have been negative reports concerning Network Solutions’ customer support. Aside from that, phone support is only available at M-F 8 am to 11 pm ET. If you prefer to seek help by phone, you may not find this platform suitable.
- You want an affordable domain registrar: Be aware that Network Solutions charges more for its domain’s solutions compared to top competitors. If you’re on a tight budget, you may consider other free or affordable providers.
THE BOTTOM LINE
🌐Network Solutions is a good domain registrar that comes with a variety of features. You can purchase a new domain, transfer, forward, generate domains, plus a whole lot more. The company has negative reports for deceptions, which is a real point when considering this platform. Plus, the platform is very expensive compared to its competitors. But in all, the platform offers great services.
Now, Let’s Detail Things For You.
Network Solutions belongs to the league of expensive domain registrars. If you’re on a tight budget, this should be a reg flag for you. You might as well look for cheaper domain registrars to buy from.
With that being said, here’s a breakdown of prices for Network Solutions Domains.
At the moment, Network Solution is charging $25/year for its .com domain, with an additional $9.99/year privacy protection fee. That’s quite expensive when compared to GoDaddy and Bluehost with prices typically ranging from $11.99/year to $19.99/year.
Suppose you’re purchasing a .io domain, be willing to let go of $79.99 every year, with an additional $9.99/year for privacy protection. That’s way too expensive, especially if you’re on a tight budget, or run a small business.
Network Solutions also charges $25/year for a .net, .org, .co, .biz, .co.uk, or .info domain, with $9.99/year privacy protection fee.
However, a .company domain name costs a bit cheaper at about $9.99/year plus $9.99/year privacy protection charges.
From the statistics above, you can tell that Network Solutions isn’t cheap.
So, what do you do at this point?
It’s quite simple…
Assess your needs, and check your affordability rate. Can you afford to spend over $80 every year renewing your domain name subscription?
The answer to this question is up to you to decide.
But whatever you do, make sure you’re getting value for your money, and a good ROI in the long run.
What’s The Catch With Network Solutions Domains?
Network Solutions Domains is one of those platforms you should be careful of. If you’re new to website building, and domain name purchasing, this platform is not recommended.
The platform has a history of customer deception that you should be aware of.
It may interest you to know that the company faced charges from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2003 for deceptive marketing practices.
Note that the FTC accused the firm of distributing misleading solicitation announcements to its customers, falsely informing them that their domain names were about to expire.
You’d be shocked to know that the notices didn’t disclose the actual expiration dates or the fact that the entire process could result in higher costs. That was a serious charge you don’t want to overlook.
However, if you feel like taking chances and giving the platform a benefit of doubt, it’s up to you. But understand that the goal of this article is to keep you informed about the products, services, costs, and any potential dubious activities around its prices.
There’s something else you should be aware of…
In its advertisement, Network Solutions promises to include its drag-and-drop website builder as part of the package when you purchase a domain, but that’s not the case. According to some review sites, including Forbes Advisor, the website builder costs extra, distinct from the actual price of the domain.
You may have to put on your thinking cap, as you decide on using this company for your domain needs.
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What You Need To Know.
As earlier mentioned, Network Solutions is expensive, which makes it a no for you if you’re on a tight budget.
When you purchase its domain solutions, you have access to a variety of features including domain name search, AI domain generator, domain transfer, domain forwarding, domain privacy and protection, domain expiration protection, premium domain names, WHOIS search, trademark protection, and domain management.
Remember, that privacy protection fees of $9.99/year are not included in the actual price for a domain.
Also, you’re paying a separate fee as required by ICANN.
You can hire a manager who manages your domain portfolio. The fees aren’t disclosed. You have to speak with an agent to get your quotes.
There are programs available for you to join and take advantage of returns, such as affiliate program, reseller program, and platinum program.
What Are Network Solutions Domains’ Competitors Offering?
Network Solutions vs. Hover:
Both Hover and Network Solutions offer domain registration services. While Hover primarily exists as a domain registrar, Network Solutions diversifies its services, including hosting, digital marketing, and more.
Hover currently charges $17.99/year for its .com domains, which is quite cheaper when compared to Network Solutions’ $19.99/year subscription fee. The $2 margin can be a price cut for someone who’s on budget.
Note that the above prices are exclusive to domain names. Fees for privacy protection, ICANN, domain portfolio management, and others are excluded from the $17.99/year cost.
If you seek a cheaper domain registrar, you may have to ignore both platforms and consider more affordable options like GoDaddy, or Bluehost.
Network Solutions vs. GoDaddy:
Unlike Network Solutions, GoDaddy is known for its extensive marketing and promotional offers, comprehensive customer support, and large market share. However, the platform has aggressive upselling of additional services and high renewal prices. But, not as high as what’s obtainable with Network Solutions.
GoDaddy offers domain registration as low as $0.99 unlike what you get from Network Solutions. With GoDaddy, you can snag a free domain name when you purchase one of its website hosting plans.
Both prices for GoDaddy and Network Solutions exclude applicable taxes and ICANN fees.
GoDaddy’s domains are remarkable for offering customized names, suitable for the kind of business you’re doing.
Network Solutions vs. Namecheap:
Namecheap is a popular company that offers a variety of web services including hosting, email hosting, VPN services, SSL certificates, and more. Unlike Network Solutions, Namecheap offers competitive pricing, along with free WHOIS privacy protection. At Network Solutions, the WHOIS privacy protection comes with as a separate fee.
When it comes to pricing, Namecheap typically charges $13.98/year for its .com domain. And the beautiful part is that it’s currently offering a 57% discount on the original plan. The delta is much compared to Network Solutions.
You can take advantage of the existing offers to get domains at cheaper rates. Remember, though, that the offer extends to other domain extensions.
What Affects Network Solutions Domains’ Prices?
Sometimes, you wonder why some domain names are cheaper, while others seem more expensive. The answer is simple…there are factors responsible for that. These company-centric factors determine what you get and how much you pay. Read on to find out more.
Domain Extensions:
Prices for common domain are usually lower compared to top-level domains (TDLs) such as .com, .net, and .org. Due to higher demand, the prices are equally on the high side. You can say that the law of demand and supply is at work here.
If you’re opting for premium domains, expect to pay more also. Note that premium extensions allow you to associate your domain with the industry you work with. E.g. YourDomainName.ai, YourDomainName.car, and so on.
The Billing Method:
With Network Solutions, you can pay for your domain extension every month or annually. Typically, you’re paying less when you choose the annual billing method. Unless you don’t have much funds to pay yearly for your domain, it is advisable you ditch the monthly billing plan.
Additional Services:
While there are basic fees for purchasing a domain extension, Network Solutions charges for add-ons. If you’re requesting a WHOIS privacy protection, for instance, you’re gonna pay a little extra fee which can add up to the overall cost of domain ownership. This does not include the ICANN fee or the amount you pay to hire a domain portfolio manager.
Promotions and Discounts:
Occasionally, Network Solutions offers sales, discounts, and promotional codes where you can temporarily get lower prices. You must keep an open eye to know when these offers are available since they’re often time-limited. You can also enjoy loyalty programs, especially if you’re a long-term customer, or someone who purchase multiple services.
Domain Transfer:
If you transferring your domains from another registrar to Network Solutions, you’re paying a fee. The consolidation fee can add to the overall cost you pay. Speak with the customer agent to know if there are discounts or promotions related to domain transfers, which can cut down on your overall expenses.
Regulatory Factors:
Remember, it was discussed under that the additional services such as ICANN can add up to the overall cost. It might interest you to know that the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) imposes fees on domain registrars. While this is true, you also have a share of that fee, directly or indirectly in the company’s overall pricing. Additionally, if you’re an international customer purchasing a domain from Network Solutions, expect exchange rates fluctuations that which can impact the price you get for a domain.
What Affects Prices In The Industry Overall?
Beyond factors that affect prices within the company are external conditions. These conditions are either directly or indirectly connected to the economy which determines domain prices in the marketplace.
As you read on, some of these factors become clearer to you.
Domain Extension:
As mentioned earlier, common top-level domains such as .com, .net, and .org typically costs more due to their popularity and demand. This factor not only affects prices within a company, it is a general price-determining influence in the industry at large.
Market Demain and Supply:
When the market for high-selling domains is high, chances are that prices will go up. It’s a common law in economics. If you’re purchasing domains with short names, common keywords, or brand-related, it may impact how much you pay.
Also, when your desired domain becomes scarce, especially if it’s an TLD, prices can go up, according to the law of demand and supply.
Registrar Pricing Policies:
It is a common practice among domain registrars to offer low initial prices, but have higher renewal rates. This is why speaking with the company’s sales representative is crucial so you know what you’re up against. Make inquiries, especially if you’re a new customer and are making purchases during special sales like Cyber Monday, or Black Friday.
Add-on Services:
The number of additional services you request can significantly add to your overall cost. Some registrars include WHOIS privacy protection for free, while others, like Network Solutions, charge a small fee for such a service. The same principle applies to extra services like SSL certificates, domain locking, and more.
Market Competition:
The competition among domain registrars can significantly impact the prices you get. With the presence of many domain service providers in the marketplace, domain registrars are forced to drive prices down to attract new customers and retain old ones. During this time, you can expect a price cut.
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How To Get The Best Deal With Network Solutions Domains?
Getting the best deals with Network Solutions remains one of the greatest moves you can make when purchasing a domain name. But the question is: How do you go about the whole thing? As you read on, you’ll find out a few tips to help you maximize your purchase.
- Define what Your Needs Are: You may get carried away, spending way beyond your budget, if you don’t spell out your needs upfront. Get a book and jot down everything you need, beyond domain name. That way, you can plan your budget, and know exactly where to allocate your funds.
- Look for Promotions and Discounts: It is a common practice among domain registrars—including Network Solutions—to offer promotions and discounts. Take advantage of these periodic offers, such as Cyber Monday, Black Friday, and any other available discounts. Subscribe to Network Solutions’ newsletter to get notified of any latest freebies.
- Register for a Long Term: Expect discounts when you register your domain for multiple years. You can save money on renewal fees in the long run when you’re committed for a long time. However, the prices you get when you pay for monthly plans is usually above what you get through annual billing.
- Negotiate with Customer Support: Sometimes, when you contact customer care and discuss a price cut, you can expect a subsidy. You can also get information about any available discounts or promos. Speaking with a customer rep also allow you to express concerns about your discomfort with its services.
- Leverage Referral/Affiliate Program: Keep in mind that Network Solutions has an affiliate program where you get some commission for every successful registration. Also, if you refer a new customer, you get discounts for every purchase you make from the platform.
- Buy a Memorable Domain Name: Avoid domain names that are long, and full of symbols, especially hyphens. Such domains are hard to remember. Not only that…domain names with hyphens make your site appear less professional. You can also get lost in the competition especially if your competitor is already established and has a similar domain name as yours.
Can You Afford Network Solutions Domain Prices?
By now, you should be aware that Network Solution isn’t cheap. It is highly-priced when compared to alternatives like GoDaddy, Bluehost, Namecheap, and the like.
If you’re considering to purchase a domain name from this site, be prepared to spend more, being that there are additional fees included.
Bottom line: Check what you need a domain for, and how much you’re willing to invest in purchasing one. The goal is to get the value for your money and maximize your ROI.
Finally: Should You Buy Network Solutions Domains Or Not?
Aside from its past deceptive practices, Network Solutions is a good choice for your domain name needs. The platform is easy to use, with a wide range of features curated to help you get the most from your purchase.
The company also offers services beyond domain registration. You can also purchase a hosting service from the company.
But the question is: Should you buy network solutions domains or not?
If Network Solutions offers all the fundamental domain registration features, and falls within your budget, why not?
But remember, you have other cheaper alternatives that can provide similar—or even, better—services at cheaper rates. Go for what works for you.
