A lot of people hate them, but I always use: http://www.godaddy.com Domains are $7. I think its always best to register the domain, get a basic page up on the domain and get a link from somewhere. That way Google will know about your website from the start.
Excuse my ignorance, of course I do understand the term 'link' but what do you mean when you say, get a basic page online and then get a link from somewhere ?
I think what they mean to say is just get it started. A link is like a lifeline. It lets the internet world know that you are out there. You can get a link by getting directory listing or two. DMOZ is an example of a directory. Hope this helps :)
My advice, depending on the likelihood of someone swiping up your domain name, is to go ahead and register it (godaddy.com is fine just for domains - just don't host with them). Do you have a good domain name idea (don't we all ;) ) and want to make sure it's not taken before you get your site up? It's very easy to change nameserver settings and/or specify new nameservers once you get set up with your hosting company. I know from experience that some hosting companies get a little bit too "touchy-feely" with your domain technical contact and other information if they are the registrar as well as your host. Also, many hosting companies who register domains spend time trying to convert that domain name registration into a more long-term business relationship with you... they have your domain under their control ultimately and feel they have more leverage against you in the event you ever want to leave and go elsewhere to host. I'm not saying it WILL happen that way, but keeping things separate may work out better for some folks in the long run.
Thankyou for the advice, all that you say sounds like good sence, I'll certainly go the separate route now. Cheers - Paul I've seen domains available for $7 thru my internet supplier Tiscali, is that about the going rate (thats obviously an on-going cost per year) They give me the option of the various 'endings' ie '.co.uk, or .com can you tell me :- Although my initial site will be connected to our family business, it will obvioualy need to be '.co.uk' - but, if I make my own site, be it on another subject, are there rules as to which type of 'end' bit that I am allowed to use, or can you put whatever you want on 'Any' site ?? Thankyou again for all great advice !! - Paul