No, you can't buy a domain name forever. Domain names are registered for specific time periods, ranging from one to ten years depending on the extension and name. While you can use a domain name indefinitely you need to renew it consistently in order to do so.

Why can't you buy a domain name forever? Lifetime ownership is blocked by ICANN, who oversees the global ownership and management of domains. Allowing a domain name to be bought permanently could lead to the hoarding of names or unauthorized entities buying and controlling large amounts of domains which could impact their cost and availability.

What is domain name ownership?

At the center of owning a domain permanently lies the concept of domain name ownership. This is the legal right to use a specific domain name. When you register a domain, you're essentially leasing it for a predetermined period. This lease grants you the exclusive right to use the domain name as long as you continue to renew it. It's important to note that owning a domain name does not equate to owning the internet real estate it's more like renting space on the web.

Another part of domain name ownerships lies with ICANN. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) plays an important role in domain registration and ownership. As a global organization, ICANN coordinates the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to domain names on the internet. It's the body that ensures each domain name is unique and properly registered, preventing conflicts and duplication.

Domain registrars like Wix are accredited by ICANN to register domain names. These registrars provide services, such as domain name searches, WHOIS lookup and domain registration, that allow individuals and businesses to choose and buy a domain. They offer various features such as privacy protection, DNS management and renewal options. When it comes to using a domain name long term, choosing a reliable registrar is crucial for the smooth management of your domain name. A reliable registrar offers robust security measures, user-friendly interfaces and responsive customer support, which are vital for maintaining control over your domain for as long as you can.

How to register a domain name and keep it

1. Choose a domain name: Start by selecting a domain name that reflects your business identity and that's easy to remember.

2. Check availability: Use a registrar's domain name search tool to check if your domain name is available. If it's taken, consider alternative names or different extensions.

3. Select a registrar: Choose a reliable domain registrar, look for features such as customer support, pricing and additional services like business email.

4. Register your domain: Once you've selected your registrar, proceed with the registration process. You'll need to provide personal information and choose the registration period.

5. Configure DNS settings: After registration, configure your DNS settings to point your domain to your website's hosting server. If you register your domain with Wix, this step is take care of for you.

6. Verify ownership: Complete any necessary verification steps required by the registrar to confirm your ownership of the domain.

If you're looking for long term ownership of your domain name because it's important for your brand and business, we recommend choosing and registering a domain with a registrar like Wix. Why? Because choosing your domain and registering it with the same organization as where you build your website means you don't have to worry about the rest of your website infrastructure when understanding how to create a website (web hosting, website security) and you know there are robust alert systems in place when it comes time to renew your domain. This makes it less likely you'll have its registration lapse and you can use it long term.

What is long term domain name registration?

Long-term domain registration involves securing a domain name for an extended period, typically beyond the standard one-year term. However the maximum is generally no more than ten years at a time. This offers several benefits, including a reduced risk of losing your domain due to expiration and potential cost savings from multi-year discounts. It also means you don't have to be on top of your domain renewal every year or so.

For domain names with .com, .net and .org extensions, Wix offers renewal options for up to ten years. The options include every 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years.

It's important to understand however that the concept of lifetime domain name ownership doesn't exist. Some services may claim to provide lifetime registration, but they often involve complex terms or rely on emerging technologies like blockchain. When considering these options, it's vital to evaluate their legitimacy and ensure they align with your business goals and legal requirements.

Learn more: .org vs .com vs .net

How to choose a domain name that works long term

Choosing a domain name that you use for a long time, is not just about how to register and renew it. It's also about choosing a name that you can use for your business and brand long term too.

This means you want to choose a name that is available, of course but also one that is:

• Memorable, easy to remember (usually this means nothing too long, easy to pronounce).

Shorter domains can be easier to remember and type, but they aren't essential. What matters most is that your domain accurately represents your brand and is memorable. Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix

• You ca think unique, as you want to stand out with your domain as a brand, or at least create something that helps you be trusted.

• Not offensive, including culturally appropriate.

• Reflects your brand first and foremost, both in the short and long term. It can be tempting to opt for something quirky when you're just starting a business but think about where you want to grow with it long term and if it will stil work once you're a bigger company or one with a wider range of offerings.