Looking to start a blog or an online business this year? One of the most important stages in building a website is finding a domain name and registering it. A domain name is basically the web address where everyone will find you (for example, hostingplansreviews.com). Since this can have a big impact on your online presence, what you choose is a vital first step in building your website. Buying the domain name is easy, but finding a unique name that hasn’t been used can be tricky. While it’s true that there are millions of domain names available, many of the popular memorable ones are taken. But fortunately, via our simple step-by-step guide and a dose of creativity, you can still get what you need.
Here, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about domain names, as well as guide you on how to choose the right one – from purchasing your domain name to verifying ownership of it. All in just five simple steps, too!
Step 1: Visit a Domain Name Registrar
So, where to start? The good news is that anyone can buy a domain name. The best place to begin is by using a domain registrar; a company that will help you find, purchase, and manage your domain name. However, there are a lot of registrars to choose from. When choosing, we’d advise weighing up affordability, security, and support. What is the best value? And what will keep your domain name secure? It’s also worth exploring the registrars that are accredited with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which is the nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating all of the numerical spaces on the internet.
| Registrar | Features |
|---|---|
| Domain.com | Powers over 1.2 million websites globally, offers full control over domains, and includes free transfer lock security. |
| NameCheap | Offers free privacy protection and manages millions of domain names, aiming to make buying and transferring easy. |
| Bluehost | Best for all-in-one convenience; includes a free SSL certificate, Domain Lock Security, and one-year free domain registration. |
Step 2: Search for a Domain Name
Now you’ve selected your registrar, it’s time to search for a domain name. This is a long-term investment, so it’s worth getting it right the first time. Whilst searching for domain names, you’ll find that a lot of options are already taken. Don’t worry! Although this can be frustrating, take it as a chance to think outside the box, which can lead to a more unique result. If the name you want is taken, registrars also have search engines that’ll provide a list of available alternatives.
For now, here are some general tips when searching for and selecting a domain name:
- Keep it short! Make sure that your domain name is easy to remember.
- Use keywords and/or your brand name in the domain name search – keep things relevant!
- Avoid using punctuation, such as hyphens, in the domain name of your site.
Step 3: Choose a Domain Name Suffix
On the whole, people prefer Top Level Domains (TLDs), which refer to the suffix attached to Internet domain names. We think “.com” is often the best choice, as people always recognize and remember it. Even those who aren’t tech-savvy use “.com” and type it without thinking! Smartphones also have a pre-built key for .com, making mobile searching easy. However, if “.com” isn’t available, “.net”, “.edu”, or “.org” extensions are not uncommon. In fact, “.edu” and “.org” are often used by educational and charity websites. In some cases, they make more sense.
Step 4: Purchase the Domain Name
Now you have your domain’s name and suffix sorted, it’s time to buy your domain name. Domain names generally cost between $10 and $20 a year, depending on which registrar you buy from. Different registrars offer different packages, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal. Most registrars also offer a discount for a domain name for the first year, after which they’ll bill you annually.
If you’re using website builders such as WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace, you can get free domain names known as ‘sub-domains,’ for example, “hostingplansreviews.wordpress.com.” The downside of this is you don’t own the sub-domain, and it’s also a less memorable URL. So we’d recommend taking the plunge and buying a domain name – then, at least, it’s all yours!
Once you’ve found your domain name, you’ll be directed to a sign-up page to enter your account information; your name, address, and email address. Hosting extras will be offered at this stage, but it’s best to leave them for now. You can always add these in later. Finally, enter your payment details and you’re almost done.
Step 5: Verify the Domain Name
Lastly, you’ll need to make sure your domain name is assigned to you, which is a pretty easy process. Simply sign in to your domain registrar (where you bought your domain name from), and you’ll be asked for some final details about yourself. Submit these, and you’re all set. You now own the domain name!
Happy website building!
