Domain vs Subdomain: The Ultimate Guide

In the world of website Domain and hosting, when people start looking for Australian Domain names for their website, they often confuse the Domain names with Subdomain. 

So, before investing in the Domain or Web Hosting in Australia, one should be well aware of some of the basic terms. 

So, in this article, we especially look at the Subdomain vs. Domain by understanding both concepts individually. 

Then, we will see a table to understand the difference between both Domain and Subdomain in a better and easier way.

 Let’s go!

Domain

A Domain name is a unique identity or web address that helps to show your website’s online presence on the web. Simply put the Domain name is what people type on their web browser when they want to search for your website on the internet.

• Domain Structure

Consists of a hostname (e.g., “www”), website name, and TLD (e.g., “.com”).

• Access Improvement

Simplifies access compared to using complex IP addresses.

• Types of Domain
  • Root Domain: It is a main Domain with one or more Subdomains, which is also known as the apex Domain.
  • Bare Domain: It is a Domain without “www” (e.g., “google.com”) generally acquired for aesthetic reasons.
• DNS Lookup

Converts human-friendly Domain names to numerical IP addresses.

• Domain Management
  • Managed by Domain registries, delegated to registrars.
  • Over 350 million registered Domain names globally.

Subdomain

A Subdomain is part of the Domain that is present within web addresses. It allows for creating sections or web addresses within the website. Subdomains are frequently used to categorise or arrange the website content.

• Creation

Multiple Subdomains can be created on the main Domain.

• Use Cases
  • Testing or staging versions of a website.
  • Hosting an eCommerce store.
  • Mobile websites (e.g., m.abc.com),
  • location-specific sites (e.g., uae.abc.com), sub-sections.
  • Installing separate instances, e.g., WordPress.
• Organisation

Efficiently organises website content.

• SEO Impact

Generally doesn’t affect the main website’s SEO.

• Creation Process
  • Log in to the hosting account.
  • Navigate to “Domains” > “Subdomains.”
  • Select the Domain.
  • Enter the Subdomain name.
  • Click “Create.”

Overview Table: Difference Between A Domain And A Subdomain

Feature	Domain	Subdomain
What is it?	Unique web address	Extension of a Domain
Hierarchy	Top-level of website’s address hierarchy.	Part of the Domain creates a hierarchy.
Ownership	Represents an independent website.	Owned by and under main Domain control.
Cost	Requires registration with possible fees.	Often included with the main Domain cost.
Purpose	Identifies and accesses a specific website.	Organises or categorises content within the main Domain.
DNS Management	Requires separate DNS management.	Managed through the main Domain’s DNS settings.
Branding Independence	Offers complete branding independence.	Reflects the main Domain’s brand.
SSL Certificate	Requires a separate SSL certificate.	May share an SSL certificate with the main Domain.
SEO Impact	Impacts SEO independently.	Influenced by the main Domain’s SEO.
Examples	www.abc.com	blog.abc.com, shop.abc.com

Conclusion – Domain Vs Subdomain

Without knowing the meaning, significance and purpose, choosing between domains and subdomains can be challenging. 

Thus, remember to use a standard website and use a regular domain with your business name. If you aim to create distinct sections, opt for a subdomain. 

Also, don’t forget to align your choice with your website’s goals, as both options have advantages.