I could have sworn there was a time way back in the beginning days when you could simply RESERVE / buy a domain name without having to signup through a web hosting service ... was this just my imagination?

I have a domain name that I have verified is not in use and would like to reserve / buy it before it gets snapped up ... but I am not yet ready to commit to any particular web hosting site / package ...

... is this even possible ?

... if yes, can someone please provide me with the link (s) ?

Thank you!

You can *register* a domain without actually setting up a Web site, but you will still have to purchase the rights from an official domain registrar. Back in the day, Network Solutions was *the* place to do this, but now you can register for as cheap as $6 for one year through Yahoo!, GoDaddy, or any other number of sites. Most of these sites will offer bundled package deals that give you Web hosting, email, etc., but if you don't need that then don't buy it.

Of course, remember that you need to re-register the domain every 3-5 years (depending on how long your contract is) or it goes back to the public domain.

I know it's too late to answer. But I'd like to address one concern.

The domain name IS considered used the moment it's registered, even if there's no active website. How can you possibly verify a domain name as not being in use if you're not its registered name holder? Report It