When I first decided to create my own website, I was so excited, visualizing the design and content that I almost overlooked the most important step: choosing a domain name. I figured I’d just pick something that sounded cool and call it a day. But when I ran it by a friend, she pointed out something I hadn’t considered: my “cool” domain was impossible to spell and didn’t reflect what my site was about. Ouch.
That moment taught me just how crucial a good domain name is — not just for making a great first impression but for building trust.
Your domain name is your online business card. It’s often the first thing people see when they encounter your brand, and it’s what makes your site easy (or hard) to remember. Whether you’re starting a personal blog or an ecommerce store, you need to register a domain name as the foundation of your online presence. And here’s the best part — you can do it for free or at a very low cost if you know where to look. I’ll show you how.
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
Table of Contents
- Why register a domain name?
- How to Register a Domain Name
- How to Register for a Free Domain Name
- Free Domain Providers
- How to Buy a Website Domain
- FAQs About Website Domains
Why register a domain name?
I like to think of a domain name as my website’s street address on the internet. When someone types it into their browser, they’re instantly brought to my site — like arriving at my virtual front door. Behind the scenes, it’s a user-friendly cover for an IP address: a distinct sequence of numbers that pinpoint where my site’s data lives.
Let’s look into why securing — and registering — a memorable domain name is so crucial.
Establish Brand Authority
As I mentioned, visitors will raise their eyebrows if your domain name doesn’t match their perception of your brand.
Say I have an ice cream truck business in New York City called “Ice Cream Dream,” and I register this domain name:
It feels … off, right? Now, compare that with this domain name:
See the difference? A good domain name aligns with your brand and earns trust.
- Professionalism. A custom domain signals you’re serious about your business and its digital representation.
- Trustworthiness. Customers trust websites with custom domains more than those using generic or shared domains.
Boost Brand Recall
If you go by Ice Cream Dream on social media but use www.icecreamtruckNYC.com as your website, won’t that look jarring? (The answer is yes.)
- Memorability. A well-chosen domain name makes your business stick in people’s minds.
- Consistency. Match your domain to your brand name or service to reinforce trust across the board.
Optimize for Search Engines
I mentioned my ice cream truck business is based in NYC. A good SEO tactic here would be using a geo-specific extension.
Instead of www.icecreamdreamNY.com, an even better domain would be www.icecreamdream.NYC.
- SEO boost. Search engines like Google often rank websites with custom domains higher.
- Location-specific tailoring. Geo-specific domain extensions (e.g., .nyc, .london) can enhance local search visibility.
Customized Email Addresses
Imagine a customer who wants to book your ice cream truck for a private event. Which email looks more polished: icecreamdreamNYC@gmail.com or hello@icecreamdream.NYC? The latter, right?
- Professional communication. Move beyond generic email addresses and show you’re legit.
- Trust in transactions. Customers are more likely to engage with a custom domain email.
Protect Your Brand
Owning my domain name gives me full control over how my ice cream truck business is portrayed.
- Avoid brandjacking. Registering your domain, especially across various extensions (.com, .net, .org), prevents others from tarnishing your brand name.
- Control the narrative. Owning your domain means controlling the content, ensuring your brand’s story is told how you want.
Create Tailored User Experiences
I can also create more personalized, user-specific experiences for visitors on my ice cream truck’s website with a customized domain name. Think:
- Landing pages. Promote campaigns using subdomains like “promo.brandname.com.”
- Segmentation. Guide various audiences to specific sections of your website, enhancing user experience and conversion.
How to Register a Domain Name
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or taking your first steps into the digital world, I’ll show you how to register a domain name. Let’s begin.
Step 1. Choose a domain name.
When choosing a domain name, I prioritize options that are memorable, on-brand, and welcoming.
If your brand name is available as a straightforward www.YourBrand.com, congratulations, you’re golden! But let’s face it, that’s not always the case. If your ideal domain is already taken, here’s how to make it uniquely yours:
- Suffix strategy. Add a relevant word or descriptor. Consider highlighting your signature product (YourBrandShoes.com), location (YourBrandUK.com), or a universal term like YourBrandHub.com or YourBrandShop.com.
- Prefix play. Start with an action-oriented word. Think BuyYourBrand.com, DiscoverYourBrand.com, or TasteYourBrand.com — anything that matches your brand’s vibe.
- Extension exploration. Don’t limit yourself to .com. Options like .store, .app, or regional extensions (.uk, .in) can work wonders. Keep in mind that niche extensions can be pricier — perfect if you’re investing heavily in branding but not ideal when building a website on a budget.
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
Step 2. Check for domain availability.
The Domain Name System (DNS) is like the internet’s address book, translating human-friendly domain names into the right web addresses. Before you get too attached to your domain idea, make sure it’s available.
Plenty of platforms make this easy with free tools powered by databases like WHOIS or RDAP. Here’s where to start:
- Shopify.
- Google Domains.
- GoDaddy.
- IONOS.
- Bluehost.
- Domain.com.
- Namecheap.
- HostGator.
If your domain is taken, it’s off the table everywhere — but don’t panic.
These platforms usually suggest alternatives that might spark an even better idea. If you’re absolutely set on a name, you could explore domain brokerage services, where a middleman negotiates with the current owner. While this might seem tempting, I would avoid going down this path unless absolutely necessary. Here’s why:
- Hidden costs. You’ll pay broker fees on top of the domain price, and those fees are non-refundable — even if the deal falls through.
- Time constraints. The negotiation process can drag on, delaying your launch.
- Premium pricing. Securing a domain via brokering can result in a significantly steeper price than registering an available one.
Evaluate your circumstances, budget, and timeline. While brokering is a fit for some, others value iterating on their initial choice to optimize costs and time. It’s never been worthwhile for me, but if you’re set on a domain name, you can consider it.
Step 3. Choose a domain name registrar.
Picking a domain registrar is like choosing a home for your website — it’s where your domain officially lives in the DNS. Registrars handle the registration process, making sure your domain is reserved and ready to use.
You’ve got options — plenty of them. That’s actually a good thing because it means you can choose the platform that works best for you. Here are a few popular routes to consider:
- Website-building platforms. Platforms like Shopify, Squarespace, WordPress, and HubSpot make the process a breeze. If you’re already building your site there, it’s an easy choice. Bonus: HubSpot’s drag-and-drop website builder is perfect for creating a stunning site without coding.
- Web-hosting services. HostGator and Bluehost bundle domain registration with hosting perks, keeping everything under one roof.
- Direct domain registrars. GoDaddy, NameCheap, and Google Domains specialize primarily in domain registration.
If you’re unsure about committing, don’t sweat it. You can register your domain in one place and host it elsewhere. This flexibility is handy if you’re not thrilled with your provider down the line.
What do domain names cost?
Domains aren’t one-off purchases — you’re essentially leasing them. Most require yearly renewals, so plan for recurring costs. According to HostGator, a domain name cost ranges from free to tens of thousands of dollars. Typically, a standard .com domain costs $10–$12 annually. Premium domains (short, catchy, or highly relevant names) can fetch a much higher price tag.
💡Top Tip: Watch out for introductory offers. Many providers tempt you with discounted rates for the first year or two, but renewal prices often climb significantly. And don’t forget — the domain extension you choose, like .com or .store, also impacts the price. Niche extensions tend to cost more, so factor that into your decision.
Things to consider before you register:
- Setup simplicity. If you want simplicity, registering your domain through your website builder keeps everything streamlined. Using separate services may involve extra steps.
- Domain privacy needs. When you register a domain, your contact info becomes public through ICANN. Some providers include privacy protection for free, while others charge extra.
- Domain extension preferences. Prefer a niche extension like .store or a regional one like .ca? Double check your registrar supports it.
- Ancillary services. Need ecommerce hosting, email solutions, or other extras? Some registrars offer enticing domain deals if you bundle them with additional services.
(Psst: Build your site with HubSpot CMS, and you can get free hosting while linking your custom domain — no extra costs!)
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
Step 4. Purchase and register.
Now, it’s time to initiate the domain purchasing process. Once you hit “Purchase,” your provider will take care of the registration process for you.
Since every platform has its quirks, the steps might vary slightly. Here’s how to register a domain with Shopify, Google Domains, GoDaddy, IONOS, Namecheap, and Domain.com.
How to Register a Domain With Shopify
- Access your Shopify store and navigate to Settings > Domains.
- Click Buy new domain and type in your preferred domain name. A list of available extensions will pop up automatically.
- Click Buy next to the desired domain.
- Enter payment details if prompted. Adjust settings like auto-renewal and review Shopify’s ICANN policy and Domain Registration Agreement.
- Click Buy domain to finalize.
- Check your inbox for a verification email. Click the link to confirm your details — it can take up to 48 hours for your domain to go live.
- After setup, head back to Settings > Domains to tweak your domain settings as needed.
How to Register a Domain With Google Domains
- Visit the Google Domains registration page.
- Input your domain, then click Add to Cart.
- In your cart, set privacy and renewal preferences.
- Add your contact info and payment details.
- Click Buy — your domain is now registered with Google Domains.
How to Register a Domain With GoDaddy
- On GoDaddy.com, enter your domain and click Search Domain.
- If available, select Get it. Add more domains if desired.
- Navigate to Continue to Cart. Here, you’ll see add-ons like hosting or SSL. Pick what you need.
- Review your order and choose your payment term (up to 10 years for .com domains).
- Sign in or create an account, add billing info, and complete your purchase.
How to Register a Domain With IONOS
- Visit IONOS and check domain availability.
- Add the desired domain(s) to your cart.
- Explore optional services like email hosting, then proceed to checkout.
- Create or log into your IONOS account, enter payment details, and confirm your purchase.
How to Register a Domain With Namecheap
- Visit Namecheap and search for your domain.
- If available, add it to your cart.
- At checkout, you’ll see optional services like SSL or VPN — select what you want.
- Complete payment, and your domain is all yours.
How to Register a Domain With Domain.com
- Head to Domain.com and search for availability.
- Choose the registration duration and any privacy features.
- Decide on connecting to additional services like Google Workspace.
- Complete the billing process, and you’ve successfully registered your domain.
While registration procedures might slightly differ across registrars, most adopt a similar structure. When deciding which platform to use, I consider cost, brand credibility, and customer support options.
Step 5. Add domain ID protection.
When you register a domain, you’ll need to share personal information — like your name, phone number, address, and email — with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).
But here’s the catch: Once you’ve registered, this information becomes public. It opens you up to spam, phishing attempts, and even identity theft. But don’t worry — there’s a simple fix.
Most domain registrars offer a service called domain privacy protection (also known as WHOIS Privacy). This swaps out your personal details with generic ones provided by the registrar, keeping your information safe from prying eyes.
I wouldn’t skip this step — if you do, you and your business become vulnerable to bad actors trying to steal your information.
Step 6. Renew your domain name.
I already touched on this, but it’s important, so let’s walk through it again.
When you secure a domain, it’s not an indefinite ownership. Most registrations last a year, though some registrars offer up to 10 years for certain domains like .com. Either way, you’ll need to renew it to keep ownership.
Make it easy on yourself by enabling auto-renewal. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it option that keeps your domain secure without the stress of manual renewals. Just double-check that your payment details are up to date so the process runs smoothly.
Even with auto-renewal, keep an eye on your domain’s expiration date. Registrars usually send reminders, but missing a renewal could mean losing your domain — and all the work you’ve put into building your online presence. It’s better to be safe than scrambling to recover what’s already been scooped up by someone else.
How to Register for a Free Domain Name
While most domain registrations come with a price tag, there are free options out there — but, as you might guess, they’re not always without a catch.
Free Domains From Website Builders
Platforms like Shopify, WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, and Weebly offer free domain names as part of their package. However, these domains often embed the builder’s brand in the URL (think: icecreamdream.myshopify.com).
They get the job done, but here’s what you’re up against:
- Memorability. Long, branded URLs aren’t exactly easy to recall.
- Professionalism. Custom domains generally look more polished.
- Functionality limitation. Free domains usually lack advanced features like email forwarding or subdomain creation.
- Non-transferability. These domains are tied to the platform, so switching to another service isn’t an option without starting over.
Free Domains From Hosting Providers
Some hosting providers, like Bluehost and GoDaddy, throw in a year’s free domain registration when you purchase their hosting packages. If you plan on using their hosting services, why not leverage this perk? I certainly would.
But if you’re eyeing a website builder like Shopify, paying for additional hosting doesn’t make sense. Also, remember that “free” only lasts the first year — after that, you’re on the hook for standard renewal fees.
Bottom line: Free domains can be tempting, but they come with trade-offs. If you’re serious about your online presence, investing in a custom domain gives you the flexibility, features, and professionalism you need to stand out.
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
Free Domain Providers
While I believe paying for a domain is worth the investment for a professional look, sometimes free is the way to go. Here’s a breakdown of the best options in my experience.
1. Wix
Wix is a drag-and-drop website builder that’s great for beginners. It offers free domains, but there’s a catch: your URL will look like yourdomainname.wix.com with Wix branding
What I like: Wix is perfect if you’re just starting out or building a personal brand. It’s super easy to use, and the free subdomain gets you online fast. When you’re ready to level up, upgrading to a custom domain is seamless. That said, if I were focusing on blogging, I’d probably go with WordPress.com instead for its flexibility.
2. Weebly
Weebly works a lot like Wix, giving you free subdomains like yourwebsite.weebly.com. It’s simple to use and great for small projects or experimenting with web design.
What I like: I love how beginner-friendly Weebly is. When I first started building websites, I found Weebly’s interface super approachable. It’s also a nice option for small businesses testing the waters without spending much. If you outgrow it, switching to a more robust platform like CMS Hub is easy.
3. Bluehost
Bluehost is mainly a web hosting service, but they include a free custom domain for the first year when you sign up for hosting.
What I like: For me, Bluehost is a smart choice for small to medium-sized businesses. I like that I can pick my own custom domain and pair it with whatever CMS works best for me, like WordPress.org or Joomla. It’s also nice to bundle hosting and domain registration — it saves time and keeps costs manageable when starting out.
4. WordPress
WordPress.com offers free subdomains like yourdomainname.wordpress.com and is backed by one of the most trusted names in content management. You’re assured extensive support and a broad range of plugins.
What I like: I’ve always appreciated how versatile WordPress.com is. Whether I’m starting a blog or building something more professional, it has the tools to make it happen. Even the free subdomain feels more polished compared to other options like Wix. When I’m ready to grow, upgrading to WordPress.org gives me even more freedom.
5. GoDaddy
GoDaddy gives you a free domain when you purchase one of its hosting plans. The platform is known for affordable hosting and handy features like malware scanning.
What I like: I like GoDaddy because it’s a holistic solution. When I don’t want to juggle multiple providers, its hosting, domain, and website builder combo keeps things simple. Plus, the pricing is super competitive, which is great when my clients are mindful of their budget.
6. Freenom
Looking for a free domain without the frills of hosting or website-building commitments? Freenom steps up with its range of five TLDs: .tk, .ml, .ga, .cf, and .gq. However, be aware that these are country-specific domains, such as .ga for Gabon.
What I like: I think Freenom is a solid short-term fix when I need a free domain for a quick project or experiment. I wouldn’t use it for a long-term brand because the TLDs can feel a bit sketchy, but it’s handy when I’m trying something out. When the time comes, it’s easy enough to switch to a more established registrar.
How to Buy a Website Domain
If you’ve decided a free domain isn’t for you, you’ll need to purchase a website domain.
The good news? Doing so isn’t too difficult, and generally, it is without a hiccup. That is unless you’re purchasing the domain from someone who already owns it. If that’s the case, don’t worry — I’ll share tips to help make that transaction hassle-free.
Step 1. Pick a brand-reflective domain name.
Your domain name should embody your brand’s essence.
- Steer clear of dashes and numbers for clarity.
- If your desired name is unavailable, incorporate keywords associated with your service, product, or brand ethos. Here are some of my favorite examples:
- Billie → Domain: mybillie.com
- Animal → Domain: weareanimal.co
- Briogeo → Domain: briogeohair.com
- Ella’s Boutiques → Domain: shopellasboutiques.com
- Billy! → Domain: lovebilly.com
- Listen → Domain: wearelisten.com
Step 2. Set your budget and commitment period.
Figure out what you’re comfortable spending and how long you want to lock in the domain. Most registrars offer flexible plans — monthly, yearly, or multi-year. Longer terms often come with discounts, so keep that in mind.
Step 3. Search for your domain on a registrar site.
Head over to a domain registrar and plug in your desired domain to check if it’s available. If it’s taken, no sweat — the registrar will suggest alternatives or different endings (like .net or .org). But let’s be real: .com is still the gold standard.
Step 4. Purchase and register the domain.
Found the perfect available domain? Add to your cart, register (or sign in if you already have an account), and complete the purchase. Double-check your details during registration to avoid any hiccups.
Step 5. For taken domains, visit the domain’s website.
If your domain is unavailable, visit its website. If you find a generic page without substantial content, chances are it’s a “parked domain,” meaning it’s held for resale. You’ll usually see a banner or link that tells you how to make an offer.
Step 6. If active, research the owner.
If the domain displays an active website, you’ll need to switch gears.
- Analyze the website’s activity. Check for recent updates or signs of stagnation.
- Use tools like the Wayback Machine to get an overview of the site’s history.
- If the owner’s contact info is listed on the site, great! Reach out directly. If not, try ICANN’s database, but don’t be surprised if privacy settings block the details. It happens a lot.
Step 7. Negotiate a mutually beneficial price.
Start the conversation with the domain owner and agree on a price that works for both of you. Here’s what to consider:
- Site history. Use the Wayback Machine to assess its past.
- Domain Authority (DA). Check this with tools like Moz or Ahrefs.
When it’s time to pay, stick to secure platforms like Escrow. Personal payment apps might seem easy but aren’t worth the risk.
Step 8. Transfer the domain.
Upon purchase, initiate the domain transfer to your chosen registrar. The steps might vary depending on your seller and registrar, but they’ll guide you through it.
Step 9. Remember to renew your domain.
Timely domain renewal is the only way to ensure an uninterrupted online presence. Missing this step could derail your online presence. Thankfully, most registrars send reminders, so set it and forget it — just don’t ignore those emails.
Step 10. Link your domain to a CMS (optional).
Want to make the most of your domain? Pair it with a Content Management System (CMS) to create a sleek, functional website. Platforms like HubSpot also offer tools like Custom Domain Connection. This links your domain and lets you craft a visually appealing and functional website faster.
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
FAQs About Website Domains
In case you have any additional FAQs about registering a domain, I’ve put together some answers that may prove helpful.
What is a domain name?
A domain name is the web address visitors type into their browsers to access your website. It acts as an address by which your site is identified on the internet.
Why is choosing the right domain name important?
A domain name is crucial for branding, search engine optimization (SEO), and establishing credibility with your audience. It’s the first impression many will have of your brand online.
What is a TLD?
TLD stands for Top-Level Domain. It’s the last domain name segment, like .com, .org, or .net.
How can I check if my desired domain name is available?
You can use domain registrars or availability checker tools online to see if your desired name is free.
What if the domain I want is already taken?
If the domain is parked (bought for reselling), you can purchase it from the current owner. You can contact the owner to negotiate a sale or consider alternative domain names if it’s actively being used.
How long can I register a domain name for?
Most registrars offer registration periods from one year up to ten years. However, the common practice is registering a domain for one to three years and renewing it as needed.
What is domain privacy or WHOIS protection?
Domain privacy or WHOIS protection hides your personal information from the public WHOIS database, ensuring your details remain confidential.
Can I change my domain name after registering it?
Once a domain name is registered, you can’t modify it. However, you can register a new domain and redirect your old one to the new domain.
What is the difference between a domain and hosting?
A domain is the address of your website. Hosting is where your website content (like files and images) resides. You need both for a functioning website.
How does domain renewal work?
When your domain nears its expiration, your registrar will notify you. It’s crucial to renew your domain before it expires to keep your site accessible and protect it from being purchased by someone else.
Build your business with a registered domain.
I realize now just how powerful a well-chosen domain can be. But what stood out the most to me is how methodical the process really is — every step, from researching a domain’s history to negotiating a deal, plays a crucial role in securing the perfect fit for your brand. And once you have it, the work doesn’t stop. Maintenance and thoughtful integration with tools like a CMS are what keep your domain running smoothly and your brand looking sharp.
If there’s one takeaway I want you to remember, it’s this: Your domain isn’t just an address — it’s the first impression your brand makes. Put in the effort, and it’ll pay off in spades.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in February 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
Custom Domain Connection with HubSpot
Inspire consumer trust and brand recognition by connecting your custom domain to your website for free.
- Connect a custom domain to your website for free.
- Keep your brand consistent across channels.
- Allow customers to find you online.
- And more!
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