A hover domain is a domain name that is registered but doesn't have a website hosted on it. When you type a hover domain name into your web browser, you'll usually see a "parked page." This is a temporary placeholder page, often owned by a domain registrar or web hosting company, that lets you know the domain is registered but not yet in use.
What Happens When You Hover a Domain?
When you "hover" a domain, you're essentially checking to see if it's available. This usually involves typing the domain name into your web browser's address bar. If the domain is registered but not active, you'll see a parked page.
Why Do Hover Domains Exist?
- Domain Speculation: People often register domains they think might be valuable in the future, hoping to sell them for a profit. These are often referred to as "domain parking."
- Brand Protection: Companies often register variations of their brand name (like different spellings or domain extensions) to prevent others from using them.
- Future Website Development: Sometimes people register a domain name with the intention of building a website on it later.
- Temporary Use: You might need a domain name for a short-term project, such as a landing page for a specific campaign.
What Does a Parked Page Look Like?
Parked pages are designed to be simple and informative. They typically include:
- The Domain Name: The parked page will clearly display the domain name that you entered.
- Registrar or Hosting Company Information: You'll often see the logo or branding of the company that registered the domain.
- Information about the Domain: It might tell you the domain is registered but not yet active, or it might offer options to purchase the domain or register a similar one.
- Advertisements: Some parked pages may display ads from the registrar or other companies.
What to Do When You See a Parked Page
If you encounter a parked page, it means the domain is registered but not yet in use. You have a few options:
- Wait: If the website is under development, the owner might launch it at some point.
- Contact the Owner: If you're interested in purchasing the domain, you can often find contact information on the parked page.
- Register a Similar Domain: If the domain you want is unavailable, consider registering a similar one.
- Move On: If the domain isn't relevant to you, simply close the page and continue browsing.
What's the Difference Between a Hover Domain and a Parked Domain?
The terms "hover domain" and "parked domain" are often used interchangeably. Technically, a hover domain is just a domain that you're checking the availability of, while a parked domain is a domain that is registered but not active. However, the terms are frequently used to describe the same thing, a domain with a parked page.
Is a Hover Domain Worth Buying?
The value of a hover domain depends on several factors:
- The Domain Name: A domain name that is short, memorable, and relevant to a specific niche can be highly valuable.
- Demand: If there is high demand for a particular domain name, it may be worth a significant amount of money.
- Your Goals: If you plan to use the domain for a business website or an online project, it might be worth investing in.
How to Find Hover Domains for Sale
- Domain Registrars: Many domain registrars offer domain marketplaces where you can buy and sell hover domains.
- Domain Brokers: Professionals specializing in buying and selling domains can help you find the right one.
- Domain Auctions: Online domain auctions are another place to find available domains.
Conclusion
A hover domain is a domain name that is registered but not active. When you type a hover domain into your web browser, you'll often see a parked page, which is a temporary placeholder page. Hover domains can be valuable assets for businesses and individuals, and there are several ways to find them for sale.
