- Rebecca Tomasis
- Oct 23
- 6 min read
Updated: Oct 26
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→
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 domain cost and availability.
Your domain is more than just a web address; it’s the first impression of your online brand. With Wix, finding the perfect domain name is easy. Wix helps you secure the name for your business, blog, portfolio or any online presence, so you can focus on bringing your project to life. Ready to claim yours?
TL;DR: Can I buy a domain name permanently?
You can’t buy a domain forever, but you can lease it for 1–10 years and make it yours to use. Just remember to renew on time, as missed renewals deactivate your domain, meaning your website and email will stop working.
If that happens, don’t panic. You have a 65-day window to get it back:
Stage | Duration | What happens |
|---|---|---|
Grace period | 30 days | You can renew normally without extra fees. |
Redemption period | 30 days | Domain can still be recovered, but may incur a fee. |
Pre-deletion | 5 days | Domain is scheduled to be released to the public. |
While permanent ownership isn’t possible, with timely renewals, your domain can stay yours for as long as you need it.
Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix:
“Domains are like digital real estate: the right name can grow in value as your brand grows. Choose wisely now and you’ll thank yourself later when your online identity feels timeless and recognizable.”
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
Choose a domain name: Start by selecting a domain name that reflects your business identity and that's easy to remember.
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.
Select a registrar: Choose a reliable domain registrar, look for features such as customer support, pricing and additional services like business email.
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.
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.
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.
Ready to get a website domain name? Get started with Wix today.
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).
Expert tip from Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix:
"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."
You can 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 still work once you're a bigger company or one with a wider range of offerings.
Ready to take the next step? Create a website for free and bring your ideas to life.
Why trust Wix’s experts?
This article was created by Wix’s in-house domain experts, with years of experience helping people choose, register and secure the perfect domains for their businesses and online projects. The guidance, tips and best practices shared here come directly from real Wix projects, so you can be confident they’ll help you find a domain that represents your brand, stays secure and supports your long-term goals.
At Wix, we’ve guided millions of entrepreneurs, creators and small business owners in establishing a strong online presence. Our team keeps up with the latest in domain management, security and branding, making sure the advice you get is practical and backed by proven results.
Think of this article as your trusted resource for every stage of domain ownership, from finding your first custom domain to protecting and growing your online identity.
Can I buy a domain name permanently? FAQ
How do I protect my domain from squatters?
Once you register a domain, make sure to renew it on time—missed renewals are the main way squatters get hold of domains. You can also enable domain privacy and lock your domain through your registrar to make it harder for anyone to transfer or hijack it. Choosing a unique, brandable name can also reduce the risk of squatting.
How much does a one-time domain cost?
Domains aren’t purchased just once; they’re leased yearly. Costs vary depending on the domain extension (like .com, .net or .co) and registrar, typically ranging from $10–$50 per year. Some premium domains cost more, but you’ll always pay annual renewals to keep your domain active.