Here is my little guide on buying a domain.

1 What kind of website will you be opening? Typical domains only need about 100-250MB of disk space and 5-10GB of data transfer. Disk space is the amount of space you will be allowed to upload on your server. Data transfer is also known as bandwidth and that's basically how much your server will allow for your files to be downloaded for people to see. Everytime someone visits your webpage it uses up a bit of bandwidth! So, large files like .PNG's, .BMP's, .AVI's and stuff like that should be avoided. If you are going to open a personal site with a little bit of content, go for a smaller plan, but if you plan to open a large networking website with tons of images and files go with something larger. Just remember, you can always ask your hosting company for a downgrade or upgrade in your plan! <{> 2 I usually buy a domain before I buy hosting, just so I know the domain I want will be available. I buy domains from GoDaddy because they are very reliable and have great prices! Now, note that you will need to change the DNS (domain name server) after we buy the hosting.

After my domain is all done being bought, I then buy hosting! I'm currently hosted at Surpass Hosting. Other great companies are:
E-starr
Host Radius
MagiComm
However, your search isn't just limited to those, choose a company you want and trust! After you pick a company and do all the paying, they should e-mail you or give you a page of ALL your info including CPanel, FTP information and also DNS information. Be sure to copy down the DNS information and then log back into Godaddy or wherever you bought your domain and change your DNS info. It should take about 1 or 2 days to propogate. [Note: If you buy your domain and hosting at the same place, you need not worry about DNS].

4 CPANEL is a must when you buy a hosting plan because it gives you access to create emails, script your site up and all sorts of fun goodies.

5 To make uploading large amounts of files easier, it's best to invest in an FTP program. FTP allows you to upload files quickly!

If you need anymore help in buying a domain or questions about domains and hosting, please feel free to e-mail me!