New domain or sub-domain?

above

[webmastertexas]

With my main site going well, and a second site starting to pick up steam, I'm starting on a third and fourth site, both of which will have a lot of content, but will be rarely updated once I put everything I need to put up on them. My question is, should I get two new domains for both of them, are use sub-domains? The plus for two new domains: I get two new URL address that fits into my site; the con: I have to pay for two extra web hosting package. Also, with a sub-domain, I wouldn't have to re-apply for my affiliate sites, and could just plug in the banners on the new sites, which is very convenient.

Any thoughts? Pro or con?

Another pro I just thought up about sub-domains: Since they won't cost me an extra web hosting package, I wouldn't need to make any minimum earnings for the site to pay for themselves. They would just add additional income to the site I already have.

You know, having said all of the above, I think the answer speaks for itself. Or does it?

[encyclo]

If the new sites are not related to the others, then you should use a domain name for each. Domain names are cheap, and you need an identity for each site.

I have to pay for two extra web hosting package.

Check with your hosting company. Most of them will allow you to host more than one site within the same space, sharing bandwidth limits, stats, etc., sometimes for a small fee (but much less than a whole hosting package). Basically, they will point the extra domain names to a subdomain of your main site.

If your host doesn't offer this option, find one that does - or if you're running multiple sites, look for a reseller package (but use it all for yourself!).

[Dejan Bizinger]

Even if your new sites are not related or similar I would suggest you to register new domain names even if you won't use them at some time. It is good to reserve a name if you later want to put them as a separate web sites, because of branding.

You don't have to worry that you will have to buy a new web hosting package for your new domain name. Simply use the space from your existing web hosting package and make a domain redirection to that space for your new domain name. Many registrars offer free domain and email redirection. If your registrar doesn't offer that service, you can use the free service at <snip>

HTH,

[edited by: trillianjedi at 2:21 pm (utc) on Oct. 13, 2004]
[edit reason] TOS [/edit]