The Registration of Google.com: September 15, 1997

On September 15, 1997, the domain name Google.com was registered, marking a pivotal moment in the history of technology and the internet. This event laid the foundation for what would become one of the most influential and transformative companies in the world.

Background

The story of Google begins with two Stanford University students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, who were working on a research project called “BackRub” in 1996. Their project focused on developing a new type of search engine that used links to determine the importance of individual web pages. This innovative approach was based on the concept of PageRank, an algorithm that ranked web pages based on the number and quality of links pointing to them.

The Birth of Google

Recognizing the potential of their search engine, Page and Brin decided to rename their project to “Google,” a play on the mathematical term “googol,” which represents the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. This name reflected their mission to organize the vast amount of information available on the web.

On September 15, 1997, the domain name Google.com was officially registered. This step was crucial in transitioning their academic project into a commercial enterprise. The registration of the domain was a significant milestone, setting the stage for the company’s formal incorporation in September 1998.

Early Development and Growth

After the domain registration, Google continued to develop its search engine technology. In 1998, they received their first major investment from Andy Bechtolsheim, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, who wrote a check for $100,000 to “Google Inc.” This investment enabled Page and Brin to officially incorporate the company and expand their operations.

Google’s search engine quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity and effectiveness in delivering relevant search results. By the early 2000s, Google had become the dominant search engine on the internet, outpacing competitors with its superior technology and user-friendly interface.

Broader Historical Significance

The registration of Google.com marked the beginning of a company that would revolutionize the way people access and interact with information. Over the years, Google expanded beyond search, developing a wide range of products and services, including Gmail, Google Maps, Android, and the Chrome browser. The company’s influence extended into various sectors, including advertising, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.

Today, Google is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., a multinational conglomerate, and continues to be a leader in technological innovation. The registration of Google.com on September 15, 1997, stands as a testament to the vision and ingenuity of its founders, whose work has had a profound impact on the digital age.