I've heard that some registrars, such as Network Solutions, will park the domains that are searched for and not bought right away. If this is true, what would be the best site/method to check for domain availability?
never heard any of that. I usually just goto namecheap ( where i purchase my domains ) and just look up a domain. They also have a bulk lookup if you ar ewanting to lookup alot at once
You are correct about Networks Solutions, there is a class action lawsuit against them right now for doing that. Wherever you go just be ready to buy if the right name is available because it may not last for long. On a Mac you can run terminal and use the 'whois' command and avoid any web portal, look for something like that. I think other places besides NS are doing the same thing.
I use Godaddy or Moniker bulk checker Network Solutions, well you shouldnt use them as they were taking names that people were searching for and they were found out.
Stay clear from Network solutions, alot of bad media about them. Godaddy is a save and reliable registrar.
I seldom check domain availability on Registrars site because they may be interested in logging your searches. You'd rather first use the oldest whois such as http://www.internic.net/whois.html or http://registrar.verisign-grs.com/whois/ and then registester the domain, if it's available.