top of page

Search Results

1860 results found with an empty search

  • ccTLDs explained: The complete country domain list

    The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain → Every country with a recognized internet presence has its own two-letter domain extension, known as a country code top-level domain or ccTLD. Below you'll find a complete list of country domains organized by region, along with everything you need to know about domain registration rules and how to pick the right country code extension for your site. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: everything covered in this guide Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) are two-letter suffixes assigned to specific countries and territories. There are over 250 active ccTLDs globally, each governed by that country's registry. Here's the complete list organized by region, plus tips on how to register one. You'll learn: What a country domain is and how it works? The complete list of country domains Which territories and special-use ccTLDs exist Which country domain extensions are the most popular How businesses use ccTLDs for branding (not geography) Who can register a country domain? Do country domains affect SEO? When to use a country domain (and when to skip it) What is a country domain? A country domain, officially called a country code top-level domain, or ccTLD, is a two-letter internet suffix assigned to a specific country or territory. The system was formalized in the early 1980s when IANA (the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) began delegating extensions based on ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 codes, the same two-letter country abbreviations used on international sports scoreboards and passport stamps. Each ccTLD is managed by a designated national registry. Germany's .de, for example, is run by DENIC eG. The United Kingdom's .uk is managed by Nominet. Japan's .jp is overseen by JPRS. These registries set the rules for who can register, what documentation is required and what the annual fee looks like, which is why registration requirements vary considerably from one extension to another. The key distinction between a ccTLD and a generic top-level domain (gTLD) is intent. gTLDs like .com, .net and .org were designed for global use with no geographic restriction. ccTLDs, by contrast, were designed to signal a connection to a specific place, though in practice, many have taken on entirely different meanings. To understand the full landscape, see our guide to types of domains. Learn more: What is a domain? What is tld Cctld meaning Not all ccTLDs represent current countries Not every ccTLD maps neatly to a modern independent country. Some represent former states, territories or regional organizations, while others have taken on meanings beyond their original purpose. .su is a legacy ccTLD originally assigned to the Soviet Union. Although the USSR dissolved in 1991, the extension remains active and continues to have registered domains today. .eu represents the European Union rather than an individual country. It is used by eligible individuals, businesses and organizations connected to EU member states. .ac belongs to Ascension Island, a remote British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic. Despite its geographic origin, it is also popular internationally because of its association with academic websites. .uk is the widely recognized domain extension for the United Kingdom, even though .gb is the ISO country code for Great Britain. While .gb was reserved and technically exists, .uk became the standard choice for UK-based websites. IANA accommodates these exceptions for historical and practical reasons. The complete list of country domains There are currently 308 delegated ccTLDs across the globe, one for nearly every recognized country and territory. The tables below organize them by region. IANA occasionally adds, removes or updates entries as geopolitical circumstances change. Europe Americas Asia-Pacific Africa and the Middle East Worth knowing: Some entries in the tables below are territories, dependencies or special administrative zones rather than fully sovereign nations. .gg (Guernsey), .je (Jersey), .fo (Faroe Islands) and .aq (Antarctica) follow the same ccTLD structure and are governed by IANA, but their local registries and registration rules operate differently from those of independent nation-states. Europe ccTLDs Country/Territory ccTLD Albania .al Andorra .ad Austria .at Belarus .by Belgium .be Bosnia and Herzegovina .ba Bulgaria .bg Croatia .hr Cyprus .cy Czech Republic .cz Denmark .dk Estonia .ee Faroe Islands .fo Finland .fi France .fr Georgia .ge Germany .de Gibraltar .gi Greece .gr Guernsey .gg Hungary .hu Iceland .is Ireland .ie Isle of Man .im Italy .it Jersey .je Kosovo .xk Latvia .lv Liechtenstein .li Lithuania .lt Luxembourg .lu Malta .mt Moldova .md Monaco .mc Montenegro .me Netherlands .nl North Macedonia .mk Norway .no Poland .pl Portugal .pt Romania .ro Russia .ru San Marino .sm Serbia .rs Slovakia .sk Slovenia .si Spain .es Sweden .se Switzerland .ch Turkey .tr Ukraine .ua United Kingdom .uk Vatican City .va Americas country code domain extensions Country/Territory ccTLD Anguilla .ai Antigua and Barbuda .ag Argentina .ar Aruba .aw Bahamas .bs Barbados .bb Belize .bz Bermuda .bm Bolivia .bo Brazil .br British Virgin Islands .vg Canada .ca Caribbean Netherlands .bq Cayman Islands .ky Chile .cl Colombia .co Costa Rica .cr Cuba .cu Curacao .cw Dominica .dm Dominican Republic .do Ecuador .ec El Salvador .sv Falkland Islands .fk Grenada .gd Guatemala .gt Guyana .gy Haiti .ht Honduras .hn Jamaica .jm Martinique .mq Mexico .mx Montserrat .ms Nicaragua .ni Panama .pa Paraguay .py Peru .pe Puerto Rico .pr Sint Maarten .sx St. Kitts and Nevis .kn St. Lucia .lc St. Vincent and the Grenadines .vc Suriname .sr Trinidad and Tobago .tt Turks and Caicos Islands .tc United States .us Uruguay .uy US Virgin Islands .vi Venezuela .ve Asia-Pacific country-specific domain extensions Country/Territory ccTLD Afghanistan .af Armenia .am Australia .au Azerbaijan .az Bangladesh .bd Bhutan .bt Brunei .bn Cambodia .kh China .cn Christmas Island .cx Cocos Islands .cc Cook Islands .ck Fiji .fj French Polynesia .pf Guam .gu Hong Kong .hk India .in Indonesia .id Iran .ir Iraq .iq Japan .jp Jordan .jo Kazakhstan .kz Kiribati .ki Kyrgyzstan .kg Laos .la Lebanon .lb Macau .mo Malaysia .my Maldives .mv Marshall Islands .mh Micronesia .fm Mongolia .mn Myanmar .mm Nauru .nr Nepal .np New Caledonia .nc New Zealand .nz North Korea .kp Northern Mariana Islands .mp Pakistan .pk Palau .pw Papua New Guinea .pg Philippines .ph Samoa .ws Singapore .sg Solomon Islands .sb South Korea .kr Sri Lanka .lk Taiwan .tw Tajikistan .tj Thailand .th Timor-Leste .tl Tokelau .tk Tonga .to Turkmenistan .tm Tuvalu .tv Uzbekistan .uz Vanuatu .vu Vietnam .vn Africa and the Middle East ccTLDs Country/Territory ccTLD Algeria .dz Angola .ao Bahrain .bh Benin .bj Botswana .bw Burkina Faso .bf Burundi .bi Cameroon .cm Cape Verde .cv Central African Republic .cf Chad .td Comoros .km Democratic Republic of the Congo .cd Djibouti .dj Egypt .eg Equatorial Guinea .gq Eritrea .er Eswatini .sz Ethiopia .et Gabon .ga Gambia .gm Ghana .gh Guinea .gn Guinea-Bissau .gw Israel .il Ivory Coast .ci Kenya .ke Kuwait .kw Lesotho .ls Liberia .lr Libya .ly Madagascar .mg Malawi .mw Mali .ml Mauritania .mr Mauritius .mu Mayotte .yt Morocco .ma Mozambique .mz Namibia .na Niger .ne Nigeria .ng Oman .om Palestinian Territories .ps Qatar .qa Republic of the Congo .cg Reunion .re Rwanda .rw Saudi Arabia .sa Senegal .sn Seychelles .sc Sierra Leone .sl Somalia .so South Africa .za South Sudan .ss Sudan .sd Syria .sy Tanzania .tz Togo .tg Tunisia .tn Uganda .ug United Arab Emirates .ae Western Sahara .eh Yemen .ye Zambia .zm Zimbabwe .zw Territories and special-use ccTLDs A handful of country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) have grown far beyond their original geographic purpose. Although these domain extensions are officially assigned to specific countries or territories, many have become popular worldwide because they are short, memorable or naturally fit certain words and industries. Some of the best-known examples include .io (British Indian Ocean Territory), which is widely used by technology companies and startups, .ai (Anguilla), which has become closely associated with artificial intelligence businesses, .tv (Tuvalu), a favorite for video creators and streaming platforms, and .me (Montenegro), which is often used for personal brands and portfolios. These extensions are available to anyone in many cases, though registration rules and pricing vary by registry. While they remain official country code domains managed by their respective registries, their global popularity has turned them into powerful branding options that often compete with traditional generic top-level domains (gTLDs). Territory ccTLD Common use British Indian Ocean Territory .io Tech startups and software products Anguilla .ai Artificial intelligence companies Colombia .co Company shorthand; startups Tuvalu .tv Streaming, media and video platforms Montenegro .me Personal sites and apps Micronesia .fm Radio, podcasts and music platforms Guernsey .gg Gaming and esports communities Ascension Island .ac Academic institutions St. Helena .sh Developer tools and shell scripts Cocos Islands .cc General brandable use Tokelau .tk Historically used for free domains The most popular country domain extensions Not all ccTLDs are equal in terms of registration volume. The extensions backed by large, internet-active populations tend to dominate, but brand recognition and registry policies also play a significant role. For a broader look at which extensions are gaining ground, see our guide to popular domain extensions. Top ccTLDs by active domain registrations The following rankings are based on active domain registrations reported in the Verisign Domain Name Industry Brief (Q4 2025), providing a snapshot of the world's largest country code top-level domains by registration volume. China's .cn is currently the world's largest country code top-level domain, with around 21 million registered domains. Germany's .de follows with approximately 17.7 million registrations, reflecting Germany's large digital economy, high internet adoption and long-standing preference for country-specific domains. The United Kingdom's .uk ranks third globally with about 10.2 million registrations. Other major European ccTLDs include .ru, .nl, .fr and .eu, each with millions of registered domains. Europe continues to have some of the world's most mature country code domain markets, with strong adoption among businesses, government organizations and individuals. Outside Europe, .br (Brazil), .au (Australia) and .in (India) rank among the world's largest ccTLDs. Large domestic internet populations, strong local business ecosystems and consumer trust in national domain extensions have helped these country code domains remain popular despite the continued growth of generic top-level domains such as .com. Expert tip from Keren Nir, Senior SEO Strategist at Wix: ".com is the most popular and widely recognized domain extension, making it the best choice for businesses. However, other extensions like .net, .org and country-specific ones can also be effective, depending on your business." Worth knowing: Volume of registered domains doesn't always equal trustworthiness. Some smaller ccTLDs have strict local residency or trademark requirements, which actually makes them harder to obtain and, as a result, more credible locally. A .fi or .no domain immediately reads as Finnish or Norwegian to a local audience in a way that a .com never could. Learn more about best domain extensions for a personal website ccTLDs used for branding (not geography) Some of the most interesting corners of the domain world involve extensions that were designed for one purpose and ended up serving a completely different one. A handful of ccTLDs, mostly assigned to small territories, have been adopted at scale by companies and communities with no geographic connection to their country of origin. .io, assigned to the British Indian Ocean Territory, became the go-to extension for SaaS products and developer tools in the early 2010s. The appeal was partly aesthetic, "I/O" as input/output is fundamental computer science terminology, and partly practical, since .io was open to non-residents when other tech-friendly extensions weren't. .ai, officially Anguilla's, followed a similar path when the artificial intelligence industry accelerated. For a deeper look at one of the fastest-growing extensions, see our guide to what is an .ai domain. .co was repurposed as a shorthand for "company" or "corporation" and became especially popular with startups looking for a .com alternative. .tv (Tuvalu) found a natural home in the streaming and broadcasting industry, where the TV metaphor is self-evident. .me (Montenegro) became a favorite for personal sites and apps with a first-person angle. .fm (Micronesia) is now synonymous with radio, podcasts and music platforms. New generic TLDs like .ai, .app, and .shop reached 37.8 million registrations in Q1 2025, posting the fastest growth rate among all domain categories, with demand for .ai domains alone growing more than 400% in three years. According to Domain Name Industry Brief (DNIB) Q1 2025. Who can register a country domain? Registration rules are one of the most important things to check before choosing a ccTLD. While some country code domains are available to anyone worldwide, others require a connection to the country or territory they represent. Open vs. restricted ccTLDs Open ccTLDs do not require a local address or residency. Extensions like .co, .io, .ai, .tv and .me can be registered by people and businesses around the world. Their open registration policies have helped these domains become popular beyond their original geographic use. Restricted ccTLDs have specific eligibility rules. Some require a local address, citizenship or business registration. For example, .de requires a German administrative contact, .au requires an Australian business number or legal presence and .ca is available only to eligible Canadian individuals and organizations. Other extensions, like .fr, have rules based on EU residency or a connection to France. Some ccTLDs are reserved for specific purposes. For example, .eu can be registered by eligible individuals and organizations connected to the European Union, while .gov.uk is limited to UK government bodies. These restrictions help keep certain domains connected to the communities and organizations they serve. Keep track of ccTLD policy changes ccTLD eligibility rules can change over time. A domain extension that is open to international registrants today may introduce new requirements in the future. For example, after Brexit, .eu updated its eligibility rules and many UK-based registrants who no longer met the requirements could no longer hold their domains. Registrants had a transition period to update their information or make changes, but some businesses and individuals had to move to a different domain extension. Learn more about how to register a domain name Do country domains affect SEO? The relationship between ccTLDs and SEO has changed over time. While country code domains are still associated with specific countries or regions, search engines now use many different signals to understand where a website is relevant. In the past, ccTLDs were a stronger geographic ranking signal. A .de domain suggested a connection to Germany, while a .au domain indicated a focus on Australia. This made ccTLDs a popular choice for businesses serving a specific local market because the domain itself helped communicate their target audience. Today, Google considers a wider range of factors when determining a website's geographic relevance, including content, language, location signals and user behavior. Google removed the country targeting feature from Search Console in 2022, but ccTLDs can still provide a clear local identity for users and may support local SEO efforts through stronger connections with regional audiences, directories and backlinks. How Google treats ccTLDs and gTLDs Google generally treats generic top-level domains (gTLDs) such as .com, .app, .shop and .blog the same when it comes to rankings. These extensions do not provide a built-in SEO advantage based on the domain ending alone. ccTLDs work differently because they are designed to represent specific countries or territories and can send a geographic signal to search engines. However, some ccTLDs have gained global use and are treated differently by Google. For example, extensions like .io and .ai are commonly used by technology companies worldwide and are considered generic by Google rather than being tied only to their original territories. This means businesses can use certain ccTLDs for branding without necessarily limiting their search visibility, but it is still important to understand how each extension is treated and what audience it is most commonly associated with. When to choose a ccTLD or a .com domain For businesses targeting multiple countries, a common approach is to use a .com domain with separate language or country versions supported by hreflang tags. However, companies focused on a single market may still benefit from using a local ccTLD because it can build trust with local customers and make the site's target audience immediately clear. Learn more: .ai va .com .co vs .com When to use a country domain (and when to skip it) A ccTLD is worth considering when your business is genuinely local or regional. If you operate in Germany and most of your customers are German, a .de domain signals local relevance in a way no amount of localized content fully replicates. The same logic applies to any market where local audiences instinctively trust a national extension over a generic one. A territory ccTLD (like .io or .ai) makes sense when the extension genuinely reflects your brand's identity. A tech product called something.io reads as native to the developer ecosystem in a way that something.com might not. For a full breakdown of your options, read our guide to domain extensions. On the other hand, if you serve multiple countries, plan to expand internationally or aren't sure yet which market you'll prioritize, a .com remains the safer foundation. It carries global recognition, faces no residency restrictions and avoids the complication of country-specific registries setting your operational rules. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, Domains Product Marketing Manager at Wix: "Think of your domain as the headline of your brand. It's often the very first thing people see, even before they land on your website. A strong domain builds trust instantly and sets the tone for your entire website." Find your perfect domain plus 400+ domain extensions on Wix. Search and register your domain in one place. How to register a country domain with Wix Wix offers over 400 domain extensions, including country-specific TLDs from around the world, through its real-time domain search. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix handles the registration process directly, without third-party intermediaries. 01. Search for your domain Go to Wix's domain name search and type your preferred name. Wix will show availability across multiple extensions including the ccTLD you're targeting, so you can compare options in one place. 02. Check availability and eligibility For restricted ccTLDs, Wix surfaces the relevant requirements during the registration process. Open ccTLDs like .co, .io and .ai can be registered immediately with no additional documentation. 03. Choose your plan Wix lets you register a domain as a standalone purchase or as part of a website plan. If you're building a site, connecting your domain, hosting and email in one place simplifies ongoing management. 04. Connect your website and set up email Once registered, your domain connects directly to your Wix website. From the same dashboard, you can set up a professional email address that matches your domain. Custom domain adoption has surged: Wix data shows the rate among published sites more than doubled in three years, jumping from 26% in 2022 to 66% in 2025. According to Wix State of Websites 2026. If you haven't settled on a name yet, Wix's domain name generator can help you explore options across hundreds of extensions, including the ccTLD you're targeting. Wix lets business owners register a domain, build a website and manage hosting and email from one platform, which means one login, one renewal date and one support team rather than coordinating across separate providers. Not sure what to call your site? Browse our list of domain name ideas for inspiration before you search. Country code domains FAQ What is a ccTLD? A ccTLD (country code top-level domain) is a two-letter internet domain extension assigned to a specific country or territory based on ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 codes. Examples include .uk (United Kingdom), .de (Germany) and .jp (Japan). Each ccTLD is managed by a national registry with its own registration rules. What is the most popular country domain extension? .de (Germany) is the most registered ccTLD in the world, with close to 17.7 million active domains. .uk comes second in Europe. In terms of global recognition, .co.uk, .com.au and .com.br are among the most widely used second-level ccTLD structures. Can I register a country domain if I don't live there? It depends on the extension. Many ccTLDs, including .co, .io, .ai, .tv and .me, are fully open to international registration with no residency required. Others, like .de, .au and .ca, have local presence or citizenship requirements. Always check the specific registry's rules before attempting to register. Do country domains affect SEO? Yes, though the effect has become more nuanced. ccTLDs still carry a geographic signal that can help with local SEO in the target country. For businesses targeting a single national market, a ccTLD can reinforce geographic relevance. For international businesses, .com with hreflang implementation is generally a stronger approach. What is the difference between a ccTLD and a gTLD? A ccTLD (country code TLD) is a two-letter extension tied to a specific country or territory (.uk, .de, .jp). A gTLD (generic TLD) is a multi-letter extension with no geographic association (.com, .net, .org, .app). gTLDs are available for global registration without country-specific requirements. What ccTLDs are commonly used for branding rather than geography? The most common brandable ccTLDs are .io (tech and SaaS), .ai (artificial intelligence), .co (startups and companies), .tv (streaming and media), .me (personal projects and apps), .fm (podcasts and music) and .gg (gaming). These are technically assigned to specific territories but are registered globally for their brand associations rather than geographic ones.

  • Do I really need a website? The definitive answer

    Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix → If you’re wondering, “Do I really need a website?” so you’re not alone. With social media, online marketplaces and AI tools, many people are left wondering if a website is still necessary. The short answer? Yes. “Social media is like speed dating, it gets you noticed, but your website is the real date where trust is built, connections deepen and relationships grow,” says Oz Golan, a product manager at Wix. “Unlike social media, where users scroll past in seconds, your website provides a dedicated environment for customers to learn about you, connect with your brand and make meaningful decisions.” “Furthermore, we've seen time and time again how even the mightiest platforms can quickly vanish, taking your hard-earned presence with them,” adds Judit Ruiz Ricart, Wix’s strategic project manager. For freelancers, entrepreneurs and small business owners, a website offers a distraction-free space to stand out and grow. This guide will break down the reasons why having a website matters and how you can create one without technical skills. Learn how to build a website from scratch using a website builder or an AI website builder. TL;DR: Do I really need a website? Yes. A website gives you a space you fully control, and that control is what turns visitors into customers. This guide walks through five concrete reasons, from credibility and brand control to marketing, sales and staying ahead of competitors. Wix empowers you to build a professional business website for any industry. What you'll learn What a website lets you do that other channels don't How a site builds credibility, captures leads and sells around the clock Where AI fits in and why it doesn't replace having a site How to build one without technical skills What can you use a website for? A website is so much more than a place to share information. “It provides a stable, long-term foundation that gives you full control over your online presence, from search engine visibility and content presentation to lead generation,” sums up Judit. There are countless types of websites and customizable website templates you can use to meet your needs. Whether you’re building a brand, selling products or offering services, a website allows you to: Share who you are: Introduce yourself, your mission and what makes your work unique in a way that feels authentic and true to you. Engage with your community: Share updates, tell your story through blogs or share videos and images to connect directly with your audience. Turn traffic into customers: Make it easy for people to book your services, shop your products or send inquiries with features like contact forms or an eCommerce website. Show your expertise: Include testimonials, case studies or add an online portfolio to build trust and demonstrate your skills. Provide valuable information: Include an FAQ page, outline your services or share resources that help your audience find the answers they need. Learn more: Best AI website builder Free website builders Cheap website builder Personal website builders Website builders for small businesses Why you need a website to grow, connect and succeed Credibility and professionalism Control over your brand and messaging Marketing and growth opportunities More sales and lead generation Competitive advantage Benefit of a website How the benefit works The impact Credibility and professionalism Provides a dedicated space that proves your business is legitimate and established. Customers trust you more than a business that only has a social media profile. Brand and message control You own the design, the narrative and the user experience without a platform dictating the format. Your story isn't limited by character counts, algorithms or changing social media rules. Marketing and growth Acts as a hub for SEO, email signups and data-driven advertising. You can be found on Google and build a list of customers you can contact anytime. Sales and lead generation Operates 24/7 with automated booking, contact forms and eCommerce checkouts. You generate revenue and capture inquiries 24/7. Competitive advantage Provides a superior experience compared to competitors who are harder to find or contact. You stay ahead of the curve by being easily accessible. 01. Credibility and professionalism Having a website is a key part of how others perceive you. “We live and breathe the stories of successful independent brands here at Wix,” says Wix’s head of marketing content, Maria Hayday. “And something that comes up all the time is the need for a recognizable, trusted ‘house’ that ties a brand together. “A website proves you’re a serious, legitimate entity. I’m always a little suspicious when a brand I’m interested in doesn’t have their own website when I search for them online.” Without a website, you risk coming across as outdated or untrustworthy, or simply being forgotten. Meanwhile, a well-made website can help you make a strong first impression. It provides a space for you to tell your story and show off your vast experience, alongside your credentials. “Real trust is built through sustained engagement. And unlike fleeting social media interactions, a website allows your business to showcase detailed content, including testimonials, case studies and rich storytelling, which are all essential for building authority and trust,” notes Oz. Pro tip: Personalize your website by securing a domain name that reflects your brand identity or goals. Not sure about the process? Use a domain name search or a domain name generator to search available names. 02. Control over your brand and messaging Relying only on social media limits how you present your brand. Algorithms change, platforms disappear, but your website remains yours. A website gives you full creative control to express yourself or your vision without restrictions. Whether it’s through web design, your website layout or content, your site becomes a personalized space and “is really the best place to tell your full story,” according to Maria. Take Muted Luxe as an example. The UK-based jewelry brand uses its site to demonstrate its devotion to handmade, sustainable products. “Muted Luxe is a quiet rebellion against the rush of fast-fashion and mass-produced homeware,” reads its About page, where visitors can learn about how the business was founded. Learn more: What is web design? Within the website, visitors can also find blogs imploring them to consider buying gold-plated jewelry. They can also shop for items or explore wholesale and white label opportunities. No matter how they spend their time on the site, it’s clear that Muted Luxe has a very specific mission and aesthetic. As evidenced, when you fully own everything you create, you can influence the kinds of opportunities that come your way. Discover more about the differences between a website vs. social media. 03. Marketing and growth opportunities A website opens the door to endless opportunities for growth and visibility. “It’s a space where visitors can find your full offering, and you can manage all your ventures and revenue streams,” says Maria. “Today, entrepreneurs are branching out into all areas. For example, it’s rare for a hospitality brand to just need a booking solution. They’ll likely want a blog to share recipe ideas or a store to sell merch.” Your website acts as a hub, where you can launch events, promote special offers or explore other revenue streams without having to direct people to multiple platforms. And if you’re using Wix, these business solutions come built-in, so you don’t have to worry about managing multiple apps either. Eugeniy Mikityuk launched the walking tour business History Walks FXBG and now runs it in two Virginia locations. "Wix has been my business in a way. Everything I have done has been with Wix, whether it's adding a new service, selling gift cards, creating invoices. The streamlining and having everything in one place is where Wix has created a very high standard." From a marketing perspective, one of the most powerful tools at your disposal is search engine optimization (SEO). By incorporating strategies like adding relevant keywords and publishing valuable content, you can potentially get your site ranking higher on search engines like Google. “A website enables your business to be referenced by AI-driven search platforms [e.g., LLMs, GenAI tools], too,” adds Oz. Being referenced is one half of it. The other half is that AI assistants increasingly act on your behalf, and they need something to act on. The Wix MCP server is a Model Context Protocol server that allows AI agents and tools to interact with Wix capabilities through natural language, so you can update products, publish a post or check bookings by asking an AI client you already use. Wix Harmony combines vibe coding creation with full drag-and-drop control in a single environment, which means the site itself is no longer the slow part. You can also manage all of your marketing strategies from one place. Use tools like email marketing to target, engage and retain your audience. Share updates, offer free resources or learn how to make a newsletter to encourage visitors to return. Combined with features like call-to-action (CTA) buttons, your site turns casual visitors into loyal customers. Pro tip: Starting a blog is one of the easiest ways to boost your SEO. Using a blog maker, you can easily publish fresh and engaging content that increases your site’s visibility and helps more people discover what you have to offer. When optimized with blog SEO, blogs can drive more organic traffic to your site. "Don't be afraid to start small with your SEO content strategy. Start by focusing on basic on-page optimizations and best practices, such as including keywords in headings. Once you're confident your blog audience can be found through organic search, you can start planning a more advanced content strategy, which involves clustering and implementing advanced SEO techniques."Rebecca Tomasis, Head of AI visibility & OG content at Wix 04. More sales and lead generation A good website is one of the best tools for driving sales and generating leads. It acts as a 24/7 storefront, always ready to engage potential customers and guide them toward taking action. Oz points out that “a website isn’t just about making a sale; it’s a platform for lasting engagement. Features like newsletters, memberships and personalized experiences keep customers connected beyond their first visit.” With strategically placed CTA buttons, signup forms and offers like free trials or downloadable guides, you can collect valuable visitor information to nurture future relationships. Features like live chat, personalized pop-ups and integrated bookings systems make it easy for users to connect and move further along the sales funnel. Don’t underestimate the power of web analytics either, notes Judit. “A website offers a wealth of data on your audience, from demographics and interests to granular behavioral insights, enabling data-driven decisions.” Use tools like Wix Analytics to track visitor behavior and to identify which page drives the most engagement. This, in turn, can help you fine-tune your strategy for better results. For example, if you see that users frequently visit a specific product page but don’t convert, you can tweak the content or offer targeted discounts to encourage a purchase. For online sellers, understanding what is eCommerce and how it works is the key to building a strategy that drives results. Your site can simplify the checkout process by offering a secure payment option like Wix Payments and intuitive website navigation. You can upsell or cross-sell at checkout and stay in control of the entire shopping experience. By learning how to make an eCommerce website, you can create a smooth shopping experience that keeps customers happy. Jonathan Loake has run the aluminium supplier Aluminium Rainflow on his own for eight years. "About 50% of my sales come through the website through the eCommerce platform that you provide. The other 50% is through leads again through the website." Learn more: Does my business need a website Business website templates Why I regret never building a website for my business 05. Competitive advantage There’s no doubt, a website sets you apart from the competition. Unlike social media or word-of-mouth marketing, your website serves as your own unique space, customized to reflect your personality, values and vision. “Instead of competing for attention on a crowded feed, a website puts you in control of the customer journey, it provides a distraction-free environment where visitors can explore your brand,” says Oz. On a more practical note, he recommends creating dedicated landing pages for specific campaigns, promotions or audience segments. You can weave in customer testimonials or feature-by-feature comparisons, just like Green Heffa Farms does right on its homepage. Visitors are greeted with a thought-provoking video, testimonials and copy boldly stating “why we are the better choice.” Ultimately, you control the narrative on your site and can freely express what makes your brand so special. You can offer a fully branded experience that makes your business hard to forget. Pro tip: Think of your website as your competitive edge. If you’re looking to take the next step, learn about Wix’s free website hosting solution or explore how to host a website and what is web hosting. Wix offers secure, scalable web hosting built in when you create your website. Ready to make your website? If you’re convinced that having a website is the way forward, the next step is deciding how to build it. Website builders, like Wix, make the process simple and accessible for anyone, regardless if you’re a beginner or a pro. With drag-and-drop editors and powerful built-in features, you can design a professional website with no experience. Website builders come packed with everything you need to create a site. They offer integrated SEO tools to boost your site’s visibility, mobile-friendly designs to make sure your site looks great on any device and customizable and simple website templates to match your unique style. You’ll have access to features to help get your site up and running in no time. For founders working with developers or AI builders, Wix Headless makes it possible to build a fully custom frontend while Wix handles all the backend infrastructure, payments, bookings, eCommerce, events and CMS, so you get a bespoke website without managing servers or stitching together tools. Learn more about Wix Headless: What is Wix Headless What is a headless CMS How much does Wix Headless cost Do I need a website? FAQ Do you really need a website anymore? Yes, a website remains essential for businesses and professionals. It acts as a reliable home base for your website, accessible anytime, anywhere, and provides a level of control and professionalism that social media alone cannot offer. Is it still worth it to have a website? Absolutely. A website builds credibility, expands your reach and gives you the freedom to tell your story your way. It’s also a long-term investment in your brand, offering tools to analyze and grow your audience. Do you really need a professional website? A professional website makes a world of difference. It creates trust, offers seamless user experience and shows your audience that you take your brand seriously. Plus, it’s often the deciding factor for customers choosing between you and your competitors. Learn more: Squarespace alternatives Wix vs. Squarespace Shopify alternatives Wix vs. Shopify WordPress alternatives Wix vs. GoDaddy How necessary is a website? A website is more necessary than ever. It’s a powerful tool to connect with your audience, showcase your products or services and adapt to the changing landscape of online businesses. What are the benefits of a website? A website helps you stand out by establishing credibility, reaching a broader audience and providing 24/7 access to your brand. It’s a platform to showcase your unique value, track engagement through analytics and continuously optimize your growth.

  • What is a .net domain?

    The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ The .net domain has been around since the internet's early days, yet most people aren't sure when or if it's right for their brand. The good news? It's more flexible than you think. If .com is taken or too expensive, .net can still look polished, credible and memorable, as long as you use it the right way. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: What is a .net domain? The .net domain is one of the original generic top-level domains, originally designed for network providers but now used by almost any kind of website. It is the third most-registered TLD globally and is widely seen as a credible alternative when the .com version of your name is taken, with a similar level of authority and broad recognition. You’ll learn: The history of the .net domain and what it was for How .net compares to .com today Who typically registers a .net domain When a .net makes sense as your primary domain What .net domains usually cost How to register a .net domain in a few minutes Understanding the .net domain The .net domain extension, a top-level domain (TLD), is designed to serve a wide range of websites, particularly those associated with networking, technology and online activities. It was introduced on January 1, 1985, as one of the internet's original domain extensions, alongside .com, .org, .int, .edu, .gov and .mil. Short for "network", it was initially created for organizations involved in networking technologies, such as internet service providers (ISPs) and network infrastructure companies. It has since evolved to become a versatile and widely used domain option. What is .net domain used for? Tech and networking businesses: Tech and networking companies like .net because it shows they’re reliable and professional. Cloud services, software platforms and IT consultancies use it to highlight their online expertise. Web tools and platforms: Developers and app creators use .net to make their sites feel trustworthy. Portfolios or SaaS tools can show off their tech skills with domains like "CodeFlow.net" or "PixelHive.net." Niche e-commerce brands: Small online stores can use .net to show they’re techy or specialized. For example, "EcoTechGear.net" signals eco-friendly and tech-focused products. Creative branding: Startups and small businesses sometimes pick .net for short memorable names that fit their vibe. Side hustles and blogs: Personal projects side hustles or blogs can use .net to stand out from a main site but still feel official. Alternative to .com: If your favorite .com is taken grabbing the .net keeps your brand consistent and protects your name. Is a .net domain good? A .net domain is is a reliable and flexible choice for many websites particularly for tech companies online services and networking sites. Because it's seen as professional and trustworthy a .net domain is a solid option for businesses blogs or online tools. It’s also great for branding because it isn’t tied to one specific type of site. A small e-commerce store like EcoGear.net or a portfolio site like AlexWrites.net can both use it. Plus, because .net is widely recognized but less crowded than other extensions, it’s easier to find available names, combine words creatively or register a domain that matches your brand closely. Pros and cons of a .net domain Pros of a .net domain Cons of a .net domain Network-oriented: great for tech, networking and online service businesses. Not as widely recognized: most people naturally expect a .com domain. Established and trustworthy: one of the original domain extensions with a reliable, professional reputation. Feels niche-specific: best suited for tech and digital-related brands. Professional image: makes your site look credible and well-established. People tend to type .com first: without owning the .com, you might lose traffic. Brand protection: securing both .net and .com helps protect your brand identity and avoid confusion. Requires extra brand awareness: you’ll need to make sure people remember your .net address. Budget-friendly: often more affordable than .com, especially for long-term registrations. Limited premium name availability: some desirable .net domains may already be taken. Learn more: What is a domain Guide to domain extensions Website infrastructure Why choose a .net domain extension? It has greater availability If your ideal .com domain is already taken, a .net can give you a better chance of securing a short, memorable name. This makes it easier to create a brand that’s easy to recall and share. It's network and technology-oriented .net is particularly suitable for websites related to networking, internet services and technology. It signals to users that the website is associated with network-related activities. It's established and trustworthy As one of the earliest domain extensions, .net carries a sense of credibility and tradition. It has a well-established presence on the internet, contributing to the trustworthiness of websites using this domain. In 2025 about 12.6 million .net websites were registered. It establishes a professional image A .net domain can help create a polished and credible online presence, making it appealing to clients and users seeking trustworthy services. It helps protect your brand Many businesses secure the .net version of their domain alongside their existing .com to protect their brand identity and ensure their online presence is secure. Adding a .net domain can offer peace of mind and an extra layer of branding strategy. As Daniel Harman, the Founder & Principal of Growth Friday shares: "Buy variations of your main domain immediately. During my VC days, I saw startups lose thousands in traffic because competitors bought the .net version of their .com domain. I always grab the .com, .net and common misspellings for Growth Friday - it cost me $60 upfront but saved countless misdirected customers." It's budget-friendly While .net isn’t one of the really cheap domains, it’s still a cost-effective option for businesses seeking affordability. It’s often more affordable than a .com domain, especially when registering for multiple years, providing great value for long-term plans. It can be an alternative site option A .net domain can also be used for a dedicated blog, a side project or a separate platform while keeping your main .com site focused on your core offerings. This flexibility allows your brand to grow without confusing your audience. Learn more about how to get a free domain name. .net vs .com: which one to use Use .net when Your website is related to networking, technology or related online services. This could include if you're a technology company, a development business or a marketing agency dealing with tech clients. The .com extension for your desired domain name is already taken or if you want to differentiate from a .com counterpart. Some brands create sites with both .com and .net to reinforce their online presence. On occasion the .net version may automatically redirect to the .com site. Use .com when Your website has a broad scope and you want a widely recognized domain extension. The branding of your website is not closely tied to a specific niche. How to register a .net domain Here are three steps to building your website with a .net domain: 01. Choose a reputable domain registrar Opt for a domain registrar that facilitates the registration of .net domains, Wix domains are a popular choice. Is Wix a domain registrar? We explain. 02. Use the registrar's domain search tool Get started with a domain search tool. Then verify the availability of your desired .net domain. If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator, which can help you find a similar domain name. You can also find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup. 03. Confirm domain availability Then select your preferred .net domain and complete the registration process. Provide necessary contact details and make the required payment. Note that with a website builder like Wix, domain registration is included in paid plans when learning how to build a website from scratch. I want to buy a domain, where to start? Be aware that .net domains, like all domains, typically incur annual renewal fees. Check with your registrar for specific domain pricing details and renewal procedures. Wix domains, for instance, are renewable on an annual basis. Learn more: How to choose a domain name How to register a domain name Country code domains explained with a complete list Who administers the .net domain? The .net domain is managed by Verisign, a global leader in internet infrastructure. Verisign has operated the .net registry since 2000, ensuring its stability, security and reliability. Like other top-level domains, .net can be registered through accredited domain registrars, including Wix, which makes it easy to search for and register your preferred domain. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. Wix examples of .net domains Helena Hauss is a Paris-based illustrator whose online portfolio showcases bold ballpoint-pen artwork. A short .net domain lets her keep her exact name online after the matching .com was taken. Flores Electric is a licensed California electrician offering panel upgrades, EV chargers and repairs. A .net domain fits this service business and kept its name intact when the .com was unavailable. Hello Sunshine is a lifestyle blog covering travel, weddings and content creation by writer Brittney. A memorable .net domain gave her a short, brandable address when the crowded .com was gone. .net domain extension FAQ Can I use .net for non-technology websites? Yes, in theory .net can be used for any type of website. It's more commonly used for sites with a technology focus. Are there any restrictions on registering a .net domain? Generally, there are no specific restrictions but it's essential to review the registrar's policies for any updates. Is .net suitable for personal sites or portfolios? Yes, .net can be a suitable choice for personal portfolios, especially if they involve technology, networking, or online-related content. Can I use a .net domain for business emails? Yes, you can use a .net domain for business emails. It's a solid choice if you're looking to learn how to create a business email that looks professional and aligns with your brand. Using a .net domain for your business emails, like info@yourbusiness.net or support@yourbusiness.net, can help maintain consistency with your website and brand identity. It's also a great opportunity to explore creative email name ideas that align with your business's image and communication needs. What are the SEO implications of using a .net domain? Domain extensions have minimal direct impact on search rankings. What matters more is the quality of your website’s content, user experience and backlinks. However, a .net domain can still contribute to your brand’s credibility and trustworthiness, which can indirectly support your SEO efforts. Is a .net domain a good fit for an eCommerce website? Yes, a .net domain can be a suitable choice for an eCommerce website, especially if your business has a focus on technology, networking or online services. While .com is often the go-to for eCommerce, .net can help your brand stand out and still convey professionalism. What's the history and purpose of other original top-level domains besides .net? Beyond .net, several original top-level domains (TLDs) were created in the 1980s for specific communities. .com was for commercial entities, .org for non-profits, .edu for U.S. educational institutions and .gov and .mil for government and military use. These early TLDs set the foundation for today’s domain system, balancing open registration with purpose-driven namespaces. Is .net as trusted as .com by users and search engines? Search engines treat .net and .com the same. With users, .com still has a slight psychological edge for memorability and brand recall, but .net is widely recognized and trusted, especially for technology, infrastructure and SaaS brands. If the .com is taken and the .net is available, it is a strong backup choice. Other potential top level domain extensions to use .info domain .org domain .co domain .llc domain .studio domain .media domain .solutions domain .expert domain .group domain .technology domain .land domain .tokyo domain .london domain .love domain .training domain .photos domain .ai domain

  • Popular domain extensions in 2026

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→ Popular domain extensions like .com, .org and .net have become online standards, signaling trust, credibility and professionalism. Choosing the right one helps your website stand out, attract organic traffic and build long-term recognition for your business. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular domain extensions, what they mean and how to choose the best one for your brand. Website trends may come and go, but a domain name is meant to last. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: Popular domain extensions From classics like .com to emerging extensions like .ai, this guide breaks down the most popular domain extensions, how they’re being used today and what to consider when picking the one that best fits your business. You'll also get a look at newly launched TLDs and industry-specific options to help your domain stand out while aligning with your goals and audience. The most popular top-level domains include: .com: The most widely used domain, suitable for almost any type of website .org: Common for non-profits, communities and open-source projects .net: Originally for network services, now a general alternative to .com .io: Popular with tech startups, apps and SaaS companies .co: Often used by startups and businesses as a shorter alternative to .com .ai: Strongly associated with artificial intelligence and modern tech companies .app: Designed for mobile apps and software products .dev: Used by developers, tech projects and coding-focused platforms .shop: Popular for eCommerce and online retail stores .blog: Ideal for personal blogs, creators and content-driven sites Ready to turn your vision into reality? Grab your free domain name and create a website now. What is a domain name? In order to understand what is a domain, think of it as a digital address for your website, similar to how a physical address directs people to your store or office. It's the URL that customers enter into their browser to find you (e.g., “www.wix.com”). This name is unique to your website and acts as a memorable identifier in the vastness of the internet. By owning a domain name, you secure a professional presence online, helping customers find you easily. Tip: Be sure to use a trusted domain registrar to help you choose and purchase an available domain name. What is a domain extension? A domain name consists of two elements: the top-level domain and the second-level domain. The hierarchy of domains moves from right to left so the top-level domain (TLD) (a.k.a. domain extension), is the last piece of text in the domain name. It’s the part of a web address that comes after the final dot. In Wix.com, for example, the top-level domain is ".com” and the second-level domain (SLD) is “Wix.” As more websites are created and competition for domain names grows, new domain extensions have been introduced to give businesses more choice. Explore the most common industry domain names to help identify patterns or trends that resonate with your target audience Learn more about how to get an .org domain what is .com? what is .net? What is a .info domain used for? Popular domain extensions (TLDs) With over 1,200 possible TLDs available, you can easily craft a unique domain name that conveys your brand’s story without incurring premium prices or waiting for ideal domains to become available. Here are some of the most popular domains this year, organized by trending categories: The most common Location-based Tech-related Competitive positioning News and trends Multi-purpose Influencer and community Topical trend Niche market Restricted and sponsored The most common domain extensions .com .net .org .co Some domain extensions never go out of style. .com is the most recognized domain globally, making it a safe and effective choice for businesses across all industries. .net, originally associated with networking services, has evolved into a versatile option for tech startups, communities and more. For non-profits and charities, .org conveys trust, credibility and a clear sense of purpose. .co has grown in popularity as a modern, startup-friendly option that's short, clean and ideal for businesses looking for something fresh and memorable. Classic extensions like these are perfect when you want your domain to be clear, credible and universally understood. Learn more: Best domain extensions for developers Best domain extensions for startups Popular location-based domain extensions .co.uk .de .ca .fr .com.au .us Whether you’re looking to be local or global, location-based TLDs (a.k.a., CCTLDs, short for “country code top-level domain” — what is a ccTLD) instantly tell visitors where you're located or who you cater to. Local extensions can boost local SEO and build trust with potential customers searching for services nearby. Broader options like .global and .world showcase the expansiveness of your online reach. No matter your target market, if location matters to your business, a CCTLD extension can help you connect with the right audience online. Popular tech-related domain extensions .tech .digital .cloud .website .technology .ai .io Technology and the internet go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise that tech-themed extensions continue to be among the most popular domains. The use cases are variable and extensive: .tech for a cutting-edge startup, .cloud for a secure storage solution or .app for a mobile innovation. With Wix you can choose from over 400 domain extensions. One extension that’s seen a major rise in popularity is .ai. Originally the country code for Anguilla, .ai has become the go-to for artificial intelligence companies and startups. Its sleek, tech-forward feel helps position your brand at the forefront of innovation, especially in fast-moving fields like machine learning and automation. These extensions immediately signal an affiliation with the tech industry, fostering trust among tech-savvy visitors. And with a domain name search, finding and registering the right tech extension is simple—so your digital presence is just as innovative as your product. Read more: Domain name trends and 23 business owners share their worst domain naming mistakes Popular competitive positioning domain extensions .top .guru .expert .vip .pro .one .best Showcasing industry expertise or a higher level of service with popular domain extensions is an excellent way to set your business or brand apart in as little as three to four characters. Use your domain name to communicate your competitive advantage, with TLDs like .pro for seasoned professionals or .best to convey exceptional service. These popular domain extensions prime potential customers to expect a superior experience. In a competitive market, they offer a powerful way to showcase your expertise and claim your position as the best in class. As Cameron Walker, general manager at Name.com shares: "We're incredibly excited about the continued growth and future of domain extensions. At Name.com, we see these new options as a powerful tool for both individuals and businesses to express their unique identities and thrive." Popular news and trends domain extensions .today .wiki .media .buzz .news .fyi Digital platforms continue to be primary hubs for news and information. According to the Pew Research Center, 57% of Americans said they prefer to get news from a digital device in 2024. It’s no surprise that domain extensions related to news, trends and timely delivery of information are among the most popular domains. Domain extensions like .news, .today and .buzz can help convey where you fall in the industry—whether you focus on more traditional, current, viral or breaking news. By understanding the unique strengths of these TLDs, you can effectively communicate your purpose and attract a targeted audience eager for the latest news and insights. Wix makes domain transfer easy, with free SSL, reliable hosting, privacy options and 24/7 support. Popular multi-purpose domain extensions .site .online .website .link .xyz These extensions are versatile and instantly recognizable, strengthening your brand identity while ensuring your website is easy to find and remember. With popular domain extensions like .site or .online you can create a web address that perfectly reflects your brand. Popular influencer and community domain extensions .club .blog .social .life.cyou .icu .bio .me The domain name landscape has evolved to reflect the growing importance of online communities and personal branding. Extensions like .life, .cyou, .club and .icu offer influencers and community leaders a way to create memorable domain names that resonate with their audience. These popular domain extensions convey a sense of connection, individuality and self-expression—all essential elements for building a strong online presence. Popular topical trend domain extensions .bet .live .shop .play .join .vote Domain extensions that directly reflect emerging or growing industries will continue to gain popularity. For example, the TLDs .bet and .live have seen tremendous growth. The rise of .bet coincides with the surge in online betting as more and more states have legalized online sports betting. Domain names using the .bet extension have been sold for significant amounts, highlighting their value in the betting industry. For instance, "bet.bet" sold for $600,000 and "casino.bet" sold for $200,000. The .live extension continues to be popular among consumers who embrace live streaming and real-time event coverage. By using .live, sites can set themselves apart from competitors by touting their timeliness directly through their domain name. Learn more: What's the best domain extension for a personal website? Should you choose a niche-focused domain? Is .shop a good domain for ecommerce? Popular niche market domain extensions .art .agency .store .finance .travel .legal .biz The domain name landscape is becoming increasingly specialized, with niche industry extensions gaining significant traction. Extensions like .art for a creative studio or .agency for a marketing firm act as powerful storytelling tools. Industry-specific domain extensions concisely communicate your core business function. If connecting to customers is key to the success of your business, industry domains are one way to attract a highly targeted audience who understands your value proposition at a glance. Popular restricted and sponsored domain extensions .edu .gov .mil Some domain extensions are reserved for specific types of organizations and require strict eligibility verification. For example, .edu is limited to accredited educational institutions, .gov is reserved for U.S. government entities and .mil is restricted to the U.S. military. Because access is limited, these extensions carry a high level of trust and credibility. Visitors immediately know they’re interacting with an official, verified organization, which makes restricted and sponsored TLDs especially powerful for institutions where authority and security matter most. Check out the new domain extensions available on Wix and grab one that fits your idea. Popular second-level domain names (SLDs) Second-level domains are parts of a website address that comes before the top-level domain, like ".com" or ".org". They typically represent specific entities or organizations, which offer a unique identifier within the larger domain name system. These popular SLD keywords reflect some of the same registration trends as top-level domains. Popular SLD Extension description Best fit for .jobs Perfect for career sites or companies showcasing open positions. Job seekers, recruiters, HR teams .foundation Great for nonprofit organizations and charitable trusts. Nonprofits, charities, philanthropic groups .app Strong for software and mobile-first brands. SaaS, app founders, tech products .ai Huge growth due to AI companies. AI startups, tools, automation platforms .services Clearly shows your website offers professional services. Consultants, agencies, service providers .tech Instantly connects your site to the tech industry. Startups, developers, IT companies .health Perfect for healthcare providers, medical institutions and wellness brands. Doctors, clinics, wellness businesses .digital Highlights your focus on digital products, services or strategies. Marketers, SaaS companies, eCommerce .life Great for lifestyle sites focused on wellness, hobbies or personal growth. Bloggers, wellness coaches, hobbyists .io Still widely used in tech and startup space. Developers, SaaS, tech founders .store Clear intent for selling products. eCommerce brands, product-based businesses .shop Similar to .store, very popular globally. Online retailers, DTC brands How to choose the right popular domain extension When it comes to domain extensions, .com remains the most recognized and trusted. It’s associated with credibility across industries and often the first choice for businesses. But depending on your goals, other extensions can be just as effective and sometimes more strategic. Target audience: If your business serves a specific region, a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) like .de, .co.uk or .ca helps build trust and signals a local presence to customers in that market. Branding: Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) such as .tech, .store or .design highlight your niche or industry, making your brand stand out with a name that feels modern and relevant. Availability: Many short or memorable names are already taken under .com, so newer extensions give you a better chance to secure a domain that fits your brand. Perception: Some newer or less common extensions have been linked to spam, which can affect user trust. Choosing a reputable domain and registrar helps ensure your website feels credible. Expert tip from Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix: ".com is the most popular and widely recognized domain extension, making it the best choice for businesses. However, other extensions like .net, .org and country-specific ones can also be effective, depending on your business." New domain extensions coming in 2026 ICANN, the organization that manages domain names worldwide, is planning a new round of domain extension applications from 30 April to 12 August 2026. This will allow brands, cities and organisations to apply for new domain endings, expanding what’s currently available on the internet. The last round in 2012 received around 1,930 applications and resulted in more than 1,200 new domain extensions such as .app, .london and .xyz. The 2026 round is expected to see similar demand, but applying is expensive and complex, with a fee of $227,000 per application and total costs often reaching several hundred thousand dollars. For most people and businesses, these changes won’t affect everyday domain registration right away. Approved extensions go through a long review process and are unlikely to become widely available before 2028 or later. When they do launch, they will include brand, city and industry-based endings, adding more options alongside familiar extensions like .com and .net. Premium domains Premium domains are concise and memorable domains. They usually consist of only one or two short words so that they’re easy to remember and type into a browser. They are considered premium because they match exactly with business or brand names and are often rare, or already registered by another user. These domains also tend to be very expensive. For example, in 2016, Elon Musk paid $11 million to acquire the domain name tesla.com to match his updated Tesla branding. Learn why some business owners are wiling to pay $100+ a year for a premium domain. Expired domains When a user purchases a domain, they are not purchasing outright ownership of that domain name indefinitely. Instead, they are paying to register the use of that domain for a specific period. Upon expiration of this term, the domain must be renewed to maintain ownership by the same individual or entity. If a domain name is not renewed, it becomes an expired domain, available for registration by others, potentially resulting in its acquisition by a different owner. Domain names may expire intentionally, such as when a business closes and no longer requires the domain, or inadvertently if the owner fails to pay the required renewal fee. Tip: If you are planning to buy a new domain name, you should always check the domain history. Learn more about smart domain name management strategies to keep your online presence strong. Website examples using popular domain extensions Get inspired by these standout website examples and personal website examples that creatively use popular domain extensions to showcase their brand, connect with their audience and stand out online: .com website example: Leanne Morgan Leanne Morgan is a successful comedian with a massive social following and a Netflix special. Her website's clean and professional design makes it easy to navigate, with a prominent tour schedule that keeps fans engaged. The .com extension is perfect for her global audience, as it’s universally recognized and easy to remember. .org website example: Liga De Arte This 50-year-old nonprofit art institution in Puerto Rico provides scholarships and aid to talented students with limited resources. The .org extension highlights their nonprofit status, building trust and credibility with donors and supporters. Their site beautifully reflects their mission, showcasing student artwork and sharing impactful stories. .net website example: KSM Candle Co. A Baltimore-based candle and fragrance shop offering workshops, owned by a woman entrepreneur. The workshop booking system is seamlessly integrated, making it easy for customers to engage with the brand beyond just shopping. The .net extension gives them a professional yet approachable online presence, perfect for a growing small business. .co.uk website example: Three Trees Tarot A creative and mysterious tarot business thriving in the UK, generating impressive revenue. The .co.uk extension emphasizes their UK roots, appealing to local customers seeking a trusted, homegrown service. Their site’s design reflects the mystical nature of their work, drawing in curious visitors. .fr website example: Mea Book Mea Book is a French website that lets customers create unique, personalized books. The .fr extension reinforces their French identity, making it clear they cater to a local audience. A standout feature of their site is the intuitive book customization tool, which makes creating a custom book a fun and effortless experience. .ca website example: The Ice Cream Truck Kris and Carli, a husband-and-wife duo, run a nostalgic ice cream truck business in Canada, bringing joy to events and birthdays. The .ca domain extension proudly highlights their Canadian roots, helping them connect with local customers. A standout feature of their site is its vibrant and playful design, which perfectly mirrors the fun and nostalgia of their ice cream truck. .store website example: Oak and Willow Oak and Willow is an eco-friendly brand with a great success story, offering 100% sustainable products. The .store extension makes it clear that they’re an online shop, making it easy for customers to find and shop their products. A standout feature of their site is the dedicated section on their sustainability practices, which reinforces their commitment to the environment. .edu website example: Montana Bible College Montana Bible College offers a range of theological programs in a faith-based environment. The .edu extension establishes their credibility as a trusted educational institution. A standout feature of their site is the detailed program pages, which provide all the information prospective students need to make confident decisions. Learn more: Is Wix a domain registrar? How to search for and select a domain name No website is complete without a domain name. When it’s time to select the domain, make a list of keywords that are most relevant to your business. Include your business name, descriptors, industry keywords, etc. Once you have a strong list, you can start searching for possible domain names. Popular domain extensions can help you define your industry (.beauty, .media, .design), instill confidence in your brand (.pro, .expert) or build a community (.bio, .club, .group). With a website builder like Wix, you can register a free domain for a year. You can experiment and see what’s available by searching for domain name options and using tools like the Domain Name Generator. You may also be interested in: Why do I need a domain name? What is domain authority? Domain name and website hosting How to get an SSL certificate ccTLD meaning Country code domains explained with a complete list Popular domain extensions FAQ What is the most popular domain extension? The most popular domain extension is .com. It’s widely recognized, trusted and often the first choice for businesses, organizations and individuals. Its universal appeal makes it highly competitive, so securing a .com domain can sometimes be challenging. Which domain is trending now? Extensions like .ai, .io and .xyz are trending, particularly among startups and tech companies. These modern TLDs cater to niche audiences, such as artificial intelligence for .ai or innovation-focused ventures for .io. Their fresh appeal makes them increasingly popular alternatives to traditional options. What is the best domain extension other than .com? Other than .com, extensions like .net, .org and .io are highly regarded. .net is versatile and often chosen by tech-forward companies, while .org is trusted for nonprofit and educational purposes. For startups and innovators, .io is an excellent choice due to its modern and tech-friendly image. Is .org or .co better? Both .org and .co have their strengths, depending on your goals. .org is often associated with nonprofits, charities and educational institutions, making it ideal for building credibility in those spaces. .co, on the other hand, is often used as a shorter alternative to .com and works well for startups or businesses looking for a modern feel. What are some good and bad domain extensions? Good domain extensions are relevant, easy to remember and fit your brand, such as .com, .net and .ai for specific industries. On the other hand, extensions with reputations for spam or low credibility, like .xyz (used improperly by some), or regional TLDs misused out of context, may pose challenges. Research the reputation of an extension before choosing it. What should I do if my preferred domain name is unavailable? If your desired domain is taken, consider creative alternatives like adding keywords, hyphens or using another reputable extension such as .net or .co. You can also reach out to the current owner of the domain to negotiate a purchase. Tools like domain name generators can help you brainstorm fresh ideas if you’re stuck. Are there downsides to using less common TLDs? Using less common TLDs, like .biz or .info, may carry some risks, as they aren’t as trusted or familiar to users as .com or .org. They could also negatively impact your website’s memorability or credibility. However, newer, niche-specific TLDs like .tech or .design are gaining traction and can be excellent choices for the right audience or industry.

  • What is a top-level domain? TLD definition and examples

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→ A top-level domain is the extension at the end of your domain name like .com, .net or .shop. It plays a quiet but important role in how your site is perceived, how professional it feels and how clearly it communicates what you do. Understanding how TLDs work helps you avoid common mistakes and choose an extension that supports your goals instead of working against them. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: What is a top-level domain? A top-level domain, often called a domain extension, helps browsers connect your site name to an IP address. It also acts as a signal for your purpose, location and credibility. From generic and sponsored extensions to country codes and infrastructure options, there are plenty of types to choose from. You’ll learn: What a TLD and domain extension are The main types of top-level domains with examples How TLDs work within the DNS How TLDs affect trust, branding and SEO Which TLDs are most popular and why How to choose the right extension for your website What is a TLD? A top-level domain (TLD) is the part of a domain name that comes after the last dot, like ".com" in "wix.com." Also called domain extensions or suffixes, TLDs help identify a website’s purpose, owner, or geographic area, and they play a key role in the Domain Name System by directing browsers to the correct IP address. TLDs include generic options like .com or .org, country codes like .uk or .de, and sponsored domains like .edu or .gov. Each TLD has its own registry managed under the guidance of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), and the choice of TLD can also influence trust and credibility for visitors. TLDs were first created by ARPANET in the 1960s to make it easier to remember IP addresses. By the early 1980s, the first TLDs were developed along with the organized categories you see today when you register a domain name. Learn more: What is a domain name Our guide to domain extensions How do TLDs work? TLDs are a crucial part of the Domain Name System (DNS), helping to simplify the process of turning domain names into IP addresses. When you enter a web address like “google.com,” the TLD server plays a key role in directing your request to the right destination. Here’s how it happens step by step: Step 1: Your browser first contacts a root nameserver, the top of the DNS hierarchy. Step 2: The root server points your browser to the nameserver responsible for the specific TLD you requested. Step 3: The TLD nameserver directs your browser to the authoritative nameserver for that domain. Step 4: The authoritative server provides the correct IP address, and your browser connects to the website. Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain before someone else does. What is the purpose of the different TLDs? Early on, top-level domains were limited and had a very specific purpose. Over time, however, the top-level domain list has surpassed three digits and most restrictions have long been abandoned in favor of creativity and branding. TLDs help classify domain names, communicate their purpose and make them easier to remember. While you’ll still need to meet certain principles if you're planning to register your site with a sTLD or ccTLD, choosing a gTLD will most likely come down to the domain name cost and your personal preference. See how the different options pair with your brand name and whether there are any that can particularly strengthen your message. Learn more: I have a domain name, now what? Domain name trends What is a parked domain? Different types of top-level domains The ICANN classifies top-level domains into different categories depending on the site’s purpose, owner and geographic location. There are 5 official types of TLDs: Generic Top-level Domains (gTLD) Sponsored Top-level Domains (sTLD) Country Code Top-level Domains (ccTLD) Infrastructure Top-Level Domain (ARPA) Test Top-Level Domains (tTLD) Additionally, there are a number of unofficial TLDs organized by individual companies that are not managed by ICANN. Different types of TLDs Type of TLD What it means Examples gTLD (generic) Classic extensions used around the world, now with new options .com, .net, .org, .app, .blog ccTLD (country-code) Two-letter domains for countries or territories, some open for everyone .uk, .de, .jp, .io, .co sTLD (sponsored) Reserved for specific groups or industries .gov, .edu, .mil, .museum Infrastructure Used for technical internet functions like reverse DNS .arpa Reserved/test Set aside for testing, not used in public web addresses .test, .example, .localhost 01. Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Generic top-level domains, commonly known as gTLD, are the most popular and familiar types of domain extensions. They are open for registration by anyone and, while the maximum length of top-level domains is 63 characters, most of them are composed of 2-3 letters. The origin of their categorization title dates back to the 1980s, when TLDs were simply differentiated between those related to the geographical location of a site and those that weren't, hence, generic. Over time, the use of certain generic top-level domains became more strictly controlled to ensure they met certain standards, leading to the creation of a new category known as sponsored top-level domains. Of the initial seven available gTLDs only three can still be registered without restriction: .org, .com. and .net. In recent years, ICANN has allowed companies to register TLDs that are restricted to trademark owners. These are often referred to as brand TLDs and include examples like .versace and .nescafe. These domains are exclusively managed by the respective trademark owners, offering a unique branding opportunity and a secure online presence for their customers. In mid-2011, ICANN approved a change to the domain name system that expanded the original gTLDs from 22 to over 1,200. These innovative options, aptly named New gTLDs, saw the incorporation of official domain extensions such as .berlin, .contact and .wow. You can see the complete top-level domain list on IANA’s database (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority, a subdivision of ICANN). 02. Sponsored Top-Level Domains (sTLD) As the name suggests, sponsored top-level domains are those proposed and supervised by private organizations. These entities can be businesses, government agencies or other types of organized groups, and they have the final word on whether an applicant is eligible to use a specific top-level domain based on predefined community theme concepts. Unlike with gTLDs, the sponsored top-level domain list only includes a small, limited number of options. Some date back to the original 1980s domain extensions (including .edu, .gov and .mil), whereas others have been created in recent years. Among them, some of the most popular sTLDs are: .edu - for higher educational institutions .gov - for United States governmental agencies .cat - for Catalan linguistic and cultural community .museum - for museum organizations .travel - for travel industry businesses 03. ccTLD – Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLD) There are 312 country code top-level domains established for specific countries and territories, identifying them with a two-letter string. These domain extensions have dedicated managers who ensure each ccTLD is operated according to local policies and meets the cultural, linguistic and legal standards of the region. Besides local businesses and individuals, ccTLDs are widely used by large corporations with regional sites that operate independently. In these cases, domain extensions serve the same purpose as a subdomain. If you plan on using a country code top-level domain on your site, make sure to take this into account when searching for the best domain registrar, as not all platforms offer ccTLD registration. In 2012, the ICANN announced the addition of the first ccTLDs using non-latin characters to the domain name system root zone. These domain extensions, known as internationalized country code top-level domains (IDN ccTLD) include languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew and Cyrillic. Some of the most well-known ccTLD include: .us - for the United States .es - for Spain .fr - for France .it - for Italy com.br - for Brazil .de - for Germany .ca - for Canada .nl - for the Netherlands .ch - for Switzerland .mx - for Mexico .co.uk - for the United Kingdom .be - for Belgium .in - for India Worth knowing: ccTLDs send a clear geographic signal to both visitors and search engines. A .de site will be perceived as German-targeted by default, which is what you want if you're selling locally and a liability if you're targeting a global audience. Country-code domains can also carry licensing requirements (some ccTLDs require local presence or registration) so check the registry's rules before committing. 04. Infrastructure top-level domain (ARPA) This special category contains only one TLD: the Address and Routing Parameter Area (ARPA). The .arpa domain extension is managed directly by the IANA for the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) under the guidance of the Internet Architecture Board (IAB) and is only used for technical web infrastructure purposes. 05. Test top-level domains (tTLD) Test top-level domains are reserved for documentation purposes and local testing, and cannot be installed into the root zone of the domain name system. According to the IETF, the reason for reserving these specific domain extensions is to reduce the possibility of conflict and confusion. There are four TLDs: .example - for place holding .invalid - for invalid domain names .localhost - for usage in local networks .test - for testing purposes 06. Unofficial top-level domains Unofficial top-level domains are those which are not regulated or managed by the ICANN. This type of TLDs are sold and administered by private companies, and as such they aren’t in the domain name system and can only be used within a certain network or using a private DNS. One of the most well-known examples of unofficial TLDs nowadays is .eth, which serves as a user accessible address to the Ethereum ecosystem. Other popular cases include .metaverse, .moon, .token and .chain. The rising popularity of these not-quite-domains is heavily due to the evolution of Web3 and blockchain technology, and the general search for a decentralized network. How do top-level domains affect SEO? While top-level domains have no direct impact on your site’s SEO performance, unusual or complex domain extensions can lead to fewer inbound links and direct traffic. Top-level domains (TLDs) may not directly impact your search rankings, but they do influence how people perceive and interact with your site. Well-known TLDs like .com or .org build trust and credibility, making users more likely to click on your link in search results. On the other hand, less familiar TLDs can feel unconventional, which might discourage clicks and affect your organic traffic. To avoid this, while planning how to build a website from scratch, make sure to pay attention to how easy your TLD is to pronounce and remember when it’s combined with your domain name. Furthermore, keep in mind that when browsing on mobile, most smartphones display a button dedicated to domain extensions whose default option is set to .com. Worth knowing: the SEO claim that "ccTLDs help you rank in that country" is partly true and partly outdated. ccTLDs do signal geographic intent to Google, but Google's hreflang tags, geographic targeting settings in Search Console and server location all factor in too. A .com on a US-hosted server with German hreflang tags can outperform a .de site that's poorly configured. The TLD is one signal, not the only one. What are the most popular top-level domains? Here is a list of the top 10 most popular top-level domains (TLDs) in the world: .com .net .org .cn .de .uk .in .jp .fr .ru These TLDs are popular for a variety of reasons. .com is the oldest and most well-known TLD, and it's often used for commercial websites. When it comes to what .net is, it's often used for technical websites and .org is often used for non-profit websites. The other TLDs on the list are country code TLDs (ccTLDs), which are used for websites that are targeted to a specific country. Why are TLDs important? Top-level domains are important for a website's branding and user perception. Here are some reasons why TLDs matter. Brand recognition TLDs contribute to a website's branding and recognition. A well-chosen TLD can enhance brand identity, make the website more memorable and convey the website's purpose or target audience. For example, a tech company might choose .tech or .app to immediately communicate its focus. Adam Garcia, founder of The Stock Dork, explains how the right domain choice translates into measurable outcomes: "TheStockDork.com is a memorable, quirky domain that helps us stand out in the crowded financial advice space and makes our brand more approachable for new investors. Last year alone, our domain name helped drive over 100,000 organic visits, since people actually remember and type it directly, rather than having to search for us on Google." Direct-type-in traffic is one of the clearest signals that a domain choice is doing real branding work. User perception and credibility TLDs can influence how users perceive a website. Familiar TLDs like .com and .org instill a sense of trust and credibility, while newer TLDs may require more effort to establish recognition. Certain restricted TLDs, like .edu and .gov, are highly trusted because only specific organizations can use them, signaling authority and professionalism. SEO relevance and targeting TLDs can signal relevance to search engines, particularly for country-code TLDs (ccTLDs). For instance, a website with a .de TLD is likely to be more relevant for German users and may rank better in German search results. Trustworthiness Certain TLDs, such as .com and .org, are generally perceived as more trustworthy and established, which can indirectly influence SEO. These TLDs can be a good choice when creating a fundraising website for particular types of sites that involve users submitting their financial information, since they require a greater degree of trust and security. However, this perception is evolving as newer TLDs gain recognition. Memorability A memorable TLD, like the widely recognized ".com" used by many commercial entities, can enhance brand recognition and help users easily remember your web address, especially if your website name is unique or less common. Website discoverability Choosing the right TLD, a crucial part of the domain name system (DNS) that helps users locate websites online, makes it easier for people to find and remember your site. A domain that aligns with your industry, purpose or audience creates a strong connection and enhances the user experience, giving visitors a clear idea of your site's focus right from the start. Website organization TLDs play a key role in organizing and categorizing websites. They help group sites based on purpose or type, such as ".edu" for educational institutions or ".gov" for government organizations. This organizational function makes browsing and navigating the web more intuitive for users. Essential to DNS TLDs are foundational to the domain name system (DNS), which is the infrastructure that allows users to find and interact with websites. Without TLDs, the system that connects domain names to their respective IP addresses couldn't function properly. Purpose alignment The right TLD can immediately communicate a site’s purpose to users, reinforcing what the website is about and helping attract the intended audience from the start. How do you choose the best TLD for your website? When choosing a top-level domain for your website, there are a few things you should keep in mind: Your target audience: Who are you trying to reach with your website? If you're targeting a global audience, you may want to choose a generic TLD such as .com or .net, especially because people already know what .com is. If you're targeting a specific country, you may want to choose a ccTLD for that country. The purpose of your website: What kind of website are you creating? If you're creating a commercial website, you may want to choose a TLD such as .com or .store. If you're creating a non-profit website, you may want to choose a TLD such as .org. Your brand: What is your brand identity? If you have a well-established brand, you may want to choose a TLD that matches your brand name. For example, if your brand name is [Brand Name], you may want to choose the TLD [Brand Name].com. Your budget: Some TLDs are more expensive than others. For example, .com domains are typically more expensive than .net domains. You also need to make sure your domain name is available, so do a domain name search. If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator, which can help you find a similar domain name. Alan Carr, creative director at Webpop Design, frames the cost question this way: "The question is never about price alone, it's about whether the domain strengthens visibility, credibility or long-term positioning. When a name aligns with branding and market perception, it can carry more weight than any marketing campaign." For most small businesses, the cheapest available TLD isn't the right answer; the right answer is the TLD whose total brand value over five years exceeds its annual registration cost which sounds obvious but is the math most beginners skip. Industry-specific TLD examples Industry TLD options Example domain Tech startup .tech, .ai, .digital, .cloud innovativestartup.tech eCommerce .com, .shop, .store, .online trendystore.com Business / corporate .company, .agency, .group, .llc, .solutions strategygroup.llc Photographer / creative .photography, .studio, .design, .art, .photos, .pictures jane.photography Health & wellness .fit, .fitness, .live, .yoga, .club mindful.health Education / learning .org, .training, .expert, .guru, .tips, .center, .info learnfast.training Travel / tourism .holiday, .world, .tokyo, .london, .blog explore.travel Finance / fintech .finance, .biz smartinvest.finance Fashion / retail .shop, .design, .gifts chicstyle.fashion Real estate .land, .center dreamhomes.estate Entertainment / media .media, .tv, .fun, .party, .today streamnow.tv Legal / consulting .expert, .coach yourlaw.law Protecting your brand with multiple TLDs Registering different TLDs for your brand name is a smart way to stay protected. By grabbing common alternatives like .com, .net and .org, you make sure competitors or opportunists can’t snag similar domains that might confuse your visitors. Even if you only use one main TLD for your site, owning the others keeps your identity consistent. This is a big win for your email addresses and marketing campaigns, since most people naturally default to a familiar TLD like .com. Plus, securing multiple extensions makes growing your business much easier. If you decide to go global, having region-specific TLDs like .co.uk or .de ready to go keeps your brand unified and credible as you reach new goals. Learn more: What is .me domain? .biz domain meaning .info domain meaning Country code domains explained with a complete list Considering new and niche gTLDs New generic top-level domains (gTLDs) like .tech, .photography and .store are fantastic ways to tell people exactly what you do the moment they see your URL. Unlike traditional extensions that feel a bit generic, these niche options give you a unique way to introduce your site to your audience. The rise of .ai domains As Tom Pasha, Product Manager at Wix Premium Services and part of the Wix domains team, explains: "The latest additions to generic top-level domains (gTLDs) address the growing demand for .ai domains, which have become increasingly popular and competitive in the industry." The .ai TLD in particular has shifted from a niche country-code (originally Anguilla) to one of the most sought-after extensions for AI-focused companies, driving both prices and competition for available names up significantly. Tim Hanson, CMO of Penfriend, shares how that plays out in practice: "Penfriend.ai costs significantly more than a standard .com domain because it's a .ai TLD. In our case, it was a no-brainer because we're an AI company, and having that .ai extension instantly communicates what we do. Our simple value calculation goes like this: if having a .ai domain helps close even one enterprise deal faster by adding legitimacy (which it has), it's paid for itself many times over. Sometimes the 'expensive' option is actually the cheapest when you look at the bigger picture of what you're trying to achieve." More great niche TLD examples The .ai surge is the headline, but plenty of other new extensions do the same job of signaling what you do at a glance. Retailers reach for .store and .shop, tech teams lean on .tech and .app, and creatives gravitate to .design, .studio and .photography. Location-based options like .nyc, .london and .berlin work well for businesses rooted in a specific city, while .blog, .news and .media suit publishers and content-first sites. The appeal is the same across all of them: a descriptive extension turns your web address into a mini headline, telling visitors what to expect before they even click. A bakery on .cafe, a nonprofit on .org or a consultant on .expert each communicate purpose instantly. The trick is to pick an extension your audience will recognize and trust, then pair it with a name that is short and easy to spell, so the whole address stays memorable. How to choose and use a niche gTLD A niche gTLD is worth considering when the extension itself reinforces what you do, when your ideal name is already taken on .com, or when you want a short, memorable address that stands out. Before committing, weigh a few practical factors: how widely your audience recognizes the extension, its annual renewal cost (some niche and premium extensions are priced higher than a standard .com) and how clearly it reads next to your brand name. When those line up, a niche extension gives you a more descriptive web address without giving up credibility. While niche extensions are good for branding, keep in mind that newer extensions may need extra work to build trust. Since some visitors might not be familiar with them, bridge the gap with a professional design and clear messaging. For example, if you use .photography, back it up with a strong portfolio and visible social proof. You can also pair a niche gTLD with a traditional one to get both brand personality and familiarity. As Michael Yerardi, the Property Specialist of Turning Point Home Buyers, shares: "Also consider purchasing different variations of your chosen domain name (such as .com, .net, .org) to protect your brand and prevent others from using similar names for their own websites. Researching keywords related to your website's topic can also help in choosing a domain name that is SEO-friendly and easy to remember." Do people still care about domain extensions? Domain extensions still matter, just in a more subtle way. They no longer define what your site can do, but they do influence how people react to it. When users scan search results or links, they make quick decisions. A familiar extension feels safer, while an unfamiliar one can create hesitation, which can affect clicks before your content even gets seen. They also shape how easily people remember and return to your site. Many users rely on memory instead of bookmarks. If your domain feels predictable, they’re more likely to type it correctly and come back. If it’s unclear or unexpected, they may search for you again or land on a different site. The same applies to word of mouth, where people often guess the ending of a domain if they’re unsure. Your choice of extension also affects how much work your brand needs to do. Some domains feel clear right away, while others need stronger design and messaging to build recognition. That doesn’t make them worse, but it does mean more effort to reach the same level of trust and recall. Who's responsible for managing TLDs? The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is responsible for managing top-level domains (TLDs) at the global level. ICANN is a non-profit organization that oversees the coordination of the Domain Name System (DNS), the internet's naming system that translates domain names into IP addresses. ICANN delegates the responsibility for managing specific TLDs to registrars, which are organizations that sell domain names to individuals and businesses. For example: Verisign manages .com and .net Public Interest Registry (PIR) manages .org Country-code TLDs like .uk, .de or .jp are managed by designated local registries When you register a domain through a provider like Wix, Wix acts as the registrar. This means they handle the registration process on your behalf under ICANN rules. ICANN also establishes policies for the domain management of TLDs, such as the rules for creating new TLDs and the procedures for resolving disputes between registrants. ICANN's key responsibilities: Creating new TLDs: Evaluates and approves applications for new TLDs, ensuring they’re safe and reliable. Delegating TLDs to registries: Assigns each TLD to a trusted organization to manage consistently. Resolving disputes: Helps settle conflicts over domain names to protect owners’ rights. Protecting the internet: Suspends or revokes TLDs that pose risks to security or stability. One thing worth knowing: TLDs aren't owned permanently, you lease them. Annual renewal is required to keep your domain active, and if you let a renewal lapse the domain typically enters a redemption grace period before being released back to the public registry. Set up auto-renewal or calendar reminders for any domain you actually care about; lost domains tend to be picked up immediately and become difficult or expensive to recover. According to Itay Shmool, VP of Wix Domains, Wix: "For most small businesses, reducing technical overhead is more valuable than chasing marginal cost savings across multiple platforms." Choosing where to register your TLD is part of that same trade-off. A few dollars saved on a separate registrar can easily evaporate the first time you need to debug DNS, SSL or email-routing issues across providers. For non-technical site owners the consolidated path is usually the lower-overhead one. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you the flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains, from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. What are top-level domains? FAQ How much do different TLDs cost? TLD costs vary on Wix, as an example: .com: $7.90/year .org: $6.90/year, .net: $11.90/year .info: $11.95/year Country-specific (e.g., .co.uk): $15.95/year Newer TLDs (e.g., .online, .store): $19.95-$39.95/year Prices may change during promotions or renewals. Some premium domains cost more. Always check current pricing on Wix's domain registration page. Can I change my TLD after registering a domain? You can't directly change a domain's TLD after registration. However, you can: 1. Register a new domain with your desired TLD 2. Set up 301 redirects from the old to new domain 3. Update website and email configurations 4. Inform users and update all your marketing materials This process effectively "changes" your TLD but it requires registering a new domain. Are there industry-specific TLDs? Yes, there are industry-specific TLDs, often called "new gTLDs". Examples include: .tech for technology .law for legal services .photography for photographers .health for healthcare .travel for tourism .finance for financial services .education for educational institutions .fashion for the fashion industry How often are new TLDs introduced? New TLDs are introduced periodically but not on any fixed schedule. ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) oversees this process. Major expansions occurred in 2012 and 2016. New TLDs are proposed, evaluated and approved in batches and the process can take several years from proposal to launch. Is .io TLD getting removed? The .io top-level domain (TLD) remains a viable option for now, but it faces potential removal within the next five years. This uncertainty stems from geopolitical factors, notably the UK's decision to relinquish control of the Chagos Islands. Despite these concerns, the .io TLD continues to be favored by tech startups for its modern and tech-oriented appeal. While immediate changes aren't on the horizon, those using or considering .io should stay informed about its status. What is a TLD in the military? In the military context, a TLD like .mil is utilized specifically for United States Department of Defense entities. It ensures that all websites and email addresses under this domain are linked exclusively to U.S. military operations. This TLD is subject to strict registration criteria, reflecting its specialized and secure nature. What is the difference between a top-level domain and a subdomain? A top-level domain (TLD) is the last part of a domain name, such as ".com" or ".org" that defines its category or geographical origin. A subdomain is a prefix added before the main domain to organize content, like "blog.example.com." While TLDs are part of the domain's core structure, subdomains act as extensions of a domain to create separate sections or functions for a website. Together, they work to structure and organize how websites are accessed and presented online.

  • Types of domains: What to know before choosing one

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→ Not all domains are the same and the type you pick actually says a lot about your site. A classic .com or .net feels familiar and trustworthy while a .org shows you’re part of a community or cause. Country-specific domain extensions let people know where you’re based and newer niche endings give visitors an instant idea of what you do. Knowing the differences makes it way easier to pick a domain name that fits your brand and speaks to the right audience from the start. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: Types of domains This guide will walk you through how domain names work, the different types of domain extensions and how to choose one that fits your brand. You’ll learn: The main types of domain extensions and what they’re used for The parts of a domain name (TLD, SLD and subdomains) Other domain types like premium and parked domains Why domains matter for branding, credibility and SEO How to choose a strong domain name for your website How to register a domain and check its availability What is a domain? A domain is your website's address on the web. Instead of relying on a string of numbers (an IP address) that's hard to remember, a domain gives people a simple way to find your site. Think of it like giving your home a street address so friends can visit you easily. Every domain name has three parts, separated by dots: Subdomain: This comes first, often as “www,” but you can customize it for things like “blog.yoursite.com.” Second-level domain (SLD): This is your site's name, like “wix” in “wix.com.” Top-level domain (TLD): This is the extension, such as “.com,” “.org” or “.net.” For instance, in the address “https://www.wix.com,” “www” is the subdomain, “wix” is the SLD and “.com” is the TLD. Domains also play a crucial role in URLs (Uniform Resource Locators), which are full web addresses like “https://www.wix.com/blog.” Here, the domain directs you to the site, and extras like “/blog” take you to specific pages. Why does this matter? A clear and easy-to-remember domain makes it simple for people to find your site, while also helping to build trust and credibility. It’s the starting point for getting your website noticed and visited by the world. 8 types of domains and examples The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, also known as ICANN introduced domain name extensions in 1998, marking the creation of the first six top-level domain extensions: .org, .gov, .mil, .edu, .net and .com. These extensions were designed to categorize domain names into groups. While you may recognize the main TLDS mentioned above, there are actually over a thousand TLDs, offering a wide range of choices for your online store, small business website or online resume. Look at the different domains and what they are used for: Generic TLD (gTLD) Country-code TLD (ccTLD) Internationalized country code TLD (IDN ccTLD) Generic-restricted TLD (grTLD) Test TLD (tTLD) Infrastructure TLD (ARPA) Sponsored TLD (sTLD) New TLD (nTLD) 01. Generic TLD (gTLD) Generic top-level domains consist of three or more characters and can be registered by anyone. These TLDs are the most regular and are what users anticipate encountering while browsing the web. The .com domain is notably the most popular, with 44% of global websites using it as of September 2025. The following are some additional gTLDs: .ai - widely used by AI startups and companies in the tech and innovation space .info - for information platforms .co - for companies or business-focused domains Learn more about how to get a free domain and get a free domain name from Wix when you sign up for a premium plan. 02. Country-code TLD (ccTLD) Country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) are two-letter extensions reserved for countries, sovereign states and territories. Each country has its own ccTLD, but you don’t have to use one just because you live in that country. ccTLDs are available to organizations from the corresponding country or territory, as well as to corporations with a presence in the region. Websites can use ccTLDs to show viewers the country they’re based in and serve. ccTLDs also help Google geotarget your site for more accurate search results. Here is a list of common ccTLDs: .at (Austria) .be (Belgium) .br (Brazil) .ca (Canada) .ch (Switzerland) .co (Columbia) .de (Germany) .fr (France) .in (India) .me (Montenegro) .mx (Mexico) .nl (Netherlands) .tv (Tuvalu) .co.uk (United Kingdom) As of March 2025, the .de domain reached 17.6 million registrations, reflecting its widespread use and popularity. 03. Internationalized country code TLD (IDN ccTLD) Internationalized country code top-level domains are essentially the same as ccTLDs, but with non-Latin characters. They allow for domain names in other writing systems, such as Arabic, Cyrillic or Chinese, making it easier for local populations to identify and use websites assigned to their region or language. Imagine visiting a website in China and seeing 中国.公司, which translates to "China.company" in Chinese characters. Or checking out a Russian business using магазин.рф ("store.rf") written in Cyrillic. In Arabic-speaking countries, domains like وظيفة.السعودية ("job.Saudi") feel far more personal and approachable than Latin-script alternatives. These customized domains make it easier for communities around the world to feel at home online, bridging language gaps and creating a more inclusive internet experience. They improve brand recognition in local markets. However, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with browsers and email systems to avoid technical issues. You can register a domain directly on the Wix website builder and add Whois privacy and domain security for extra protection. 04. Generic-restricted TLD (grTLD) Generic-restricted top-level domains are similar to generic TLDs, but with stricter requirements. These limitations may involve presenting evidence of trademark ownership or membership in a certain sector. These domain extensions are grTLDs: .biz .name .pro 05. Test TLD (tTLD) Test top-level domains, also known as tTLDs, are domain names exclusively for testing and development purposes. These domains, reserved by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), help prevent accidental exposure to the public internet. These domains can't be registered with the DNS, which allows software developers and testers to freely experiment without worrying about conflicts with existing or future domain names. This creates a safe and flexible environment for testing software updates and developments. The four main test tTLDs are: .test .example .invalid .localhost 06. Infrastructure TLD (ARPA) The ARPA top-level domain might not grab headlines, but it’s a big deal for keeping the internet up and running. Short for "Address and Routing Parameter Area," ARPA is managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and is strictly reserved for vital internet infrastructure. Unlike the domains you can register for a website, ARPA works behind the scenes. It’s the backbone for things like reverse DNS lookups—which connect IP addresses to domain names—and protocols like ENUM that link phone numbers to internet resources. ARPA has been around since the early days of the internet. It started as a temporary fix during the transition from ARPANET to the modern web. Over time, it became a dedicated domain for technical operations, quietly supporting the internet’s stability and making sure everything runs smoothly. 07. Sponsored TLD (sTLD) Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs) are specialized domains requiring eligibility verification. They cater to certain communities or industries, providing targeted online experiences. Sponsoring agencies determine eligibility. Similar to generic top-level domains, sTLDs offer industry-related information, helping users find official and trustworthy content quickly. To obtain an sTLD, apply through an ICANN-accredited registrar and meet defined criteria. Options of sTLDs include: .gov .museum .edu .mil (U.S. military) 08. New TLD (nTLD) New top-level domains (TLDs) are the latest innovative domain extensions introduced by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority, or the IANA in 2013. These newer extensions offer website owners a wider array of descriptive and creative alternatives, allowing brands to differentiate themselves in a crowded online environment. Much like traditional domains, new TLDs are subject to eligibility requirements set by ICANN, which range from general use to industry-specific purposes. This expansion of domains reflects the evolving landscape of digital branding. Examples of new TLDs include: .blog .art .design .photography .store .digital .media .ninja .love .party .club .christmas .holiday .guru .yoga .training .rocks .finance .expert .tips .online .today .world .center .cloud .land .life .llc Domain extension types and their uses Domain type What it’s for Examples Generic top-level domain (gTLD) Popular versatile domains for general websites. .com, .net, .org, .info Country code top-level domain (ccTLD) Domains for specific countries or regions ideal for local businesses. .ca (Canada), .co.uk (United Kingdom), .de (Germany) Internationalized country code TLD (IDN ccTLD) Country-specific domains using non-Latin characters for local languages. .中国 (China), .рф (Russia) Generic-restricted top-level domain (grTLD) Domains with restrictions for specific groups or professions. .biz, .co, .me Test top-level domain (tTLD) Reserved for testing and documentation, not for live websites. .test Infrastructure top-level domain (ARPA) Used for internet infrastructure and technical purposes. .arpa Sponsored top-level domain (sTLD) Managed by organizations with strict rules for specific groups. .edu (education), .gov (government), .mil (military) New generic top-level domain (nTLD) Modern domains designed for industries, hobbies or creative branding. .shop, .tech, .blog, .design Other types of domains Not all domains fall into the standard category. Here are two other types you may come across: Premium domains: These are high-value, previously owned names that are usually short, memorable or keyword-rich. Because of their strong marketing potential, they often sell for thousands—or even more. While the price tag can be steep, a premium domain may be worth the investment if it closely matches your brand or helps you stand out. For example, a bakery might invest in a premium domain like bestcakes.com to strengthen its SEO and make the site easy to remember. Parked domains: A parked domain is one that’s registered but not currently in use. Some people purchase domains to save them for future projects, while others hold them with the intent to resell. Businesses also park domains to protect their brand. For instance, a company might register similar variations of its main domain to prevent competitors from using them. How do domains work? When you type a domain into your browser, it sends a request to the Domain Name System (DNS). The DNS is a universal, decentralized system that maintains a directory of domain names and their corresponding IP addresses. The DNS is crucial to ensuring browsers can reliably use domain names to find websites. Once the DNS translates the domain name into an IP address, it is then used to locate and access the website's files on its hosting server to display the website on your screen. Your website's files, databases and media elements are all stored on the web server. This is the space you rent from a hosting company when you purchase web hosting services. The speed with which a visitor will connect to your site after typing in the domain in the address bar depends on your website's optimization and the quality of the web server you are hosting the site on. Choosing a good web host can increase your website's performance and search engine rankings. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: "Behind every great website is reliable hosting. From uptime to an SSL certificate, hosting is what keeps your site secure, accessible and trustworthy. Your visitors may not see it, but they’ll definitely notice if it’s missing." Read also: 12 web domain-related questions you’re too shy to ask Cheapest domain extensions How to build your own website from scratch What does a .info domain mean? What a .icu domain is used for Parts of a domain name A domain name consists of two parts: the actual website name, also known as the second-level domain (SLD) and the top-level domain (TLD), which is the ending of a web address. When read from left to right, these parts become less specific. Top-level domain (TLD) Top-level domains (TLDs) are the highest level of domain extensions in the hierarchy, always appearing at the end of the web address. Also known as "domain extensions," they broadly categorize the website's purpose or geographical location. Extensions like .org vs .com specify the type of entity your business is registered as on the internet. In our example, Wix’s top-level domain is ".com" since it's a commercial entity in the United States. Some popular top-level domains: .com (commercial): Ideal for businesses, individuals and all types of companies looking to establish a commercial web presence. It is the most widely used domain extension and is seen as a symbol of commercial intent. .net (network): Suitable for all types of organizations seeking to build an online network. This domain extension was originally intended for network-oriented websites, but it is now used by a wide range of companies. .mil (military): Used exclusively by U.S. military branches. This domain extension is restricted to official U.S. military use and is not for public use. .gov (government): Recommended for U.S. government agencies, government personnel and websites representing U.S. cities and regions. It is a trusted domain extension that is only for use by verified government entities. .edu (education): This domain extension is for accredited post-secondary institutions in the United States, making it perfect for schools, universities and educational institutions. .org (organization): While initially designated for nonprofit organizations, it is now widely used by a variety of groups, including non-governmental organizations and community projects. .co (companies): Recognized as a global domain used by businesses, entrepreneurs and online communities, this domain extension has become a credible alternative to the .com domain. Second-level domain (SLD) Second-level domains enable companies and individuals to incorporate something that users can associate with their websites, strengthening their brand. Typically, they are the name of the business or vendor that registered the domain name with a registrar. The brand, company or project name serves as the identifier for potential customers. A second-level domain can include letters, numbers and hyphens, but not symbols. Looking at this blog post URL, the second-level domain for wix.com is "wix." Here are some examples of second-level domains (SLDs): .example.com .school.com .marketing.biz Subdomain A third-level domain or subdomain isn’t required, but can be added before second-level domains. Subdomains offer better structure to websites, allowing multiple parts to remain separate under the same domain. Larger companies use them to distinguish between site sections. In our blog post, the subdomain for Wix's blog is "blog.wix.com." What is a domain used for? Establish ownership: A domain makes your website truly yours. Once registered, no one else can claim it. You gain full control over domain management, including where it points, who manages it or even whether to sell it. Learn more about smart domain name management strategies to keep your online presence strong. Boost brand identity: A strong domain name helps people remember your business and builds trust. When it matches your company name, it creates a cohesive and memorable brand, making it easier for customers to find you online. Improve search engine ranking: The right domain name can enhance your visibility on search engines. Choosing a keyword-rich or industry-relevant name can improve rankings and attract backlinks. Explore the most common industry domain names to guide your choice. Enhance online presence: Having your own domain allows you to create a website and prevent domain squatting, showing customers you're a trusted, established business. It’s also a vital step in understanding how to create a business email that aligns with your brand identity. Pro tip: Customizing business email addresses for different divisions, like sales@wix.com or support@wix.com, not only adds credibility but also opens opportunities to implement creative email name ideas that suit your team and operations. How to choose a domain name Now that you know about the different types of domains, learn how to pick a domain name that is best suited for your needs. Choosing a domain name is a crucial step in building your website. The right domain name can boost your website's visibility, branding and credibility. Here are some tips when selecting a domain name. Read also: Tips for future-proofing your domain What is a professional email address Align with website goals Different domains cater to various types of websites based on their purposes and functions. Determine the type of website you’re building and select an extension that aligns with your content, audience and overall goals. Take a look at other sites in your niche and see what domain name extensions they are using. By observing the choices of established websites, you can gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about the best extension for your own website. Short, simple and memorable A short, memorable domain name can help users avoid typos and improve search engine rankings. Look for a name that's easy to spell, pronounce and relates to your business. Search engines increasingly prioritize accessibility and usability, so the simpler a domain (or URL) is to read for humans, the better it is for search engines. A domain name that clearly conveys your offerings can leave a lasting impression on visitors, making it easier for them to recall your website. As Lori Appleman, the Co-Founder of Redline Minds says: "After 25 years working with online stores, I've seen countless businesses lose money because they picked domains that were too long or complex. The #1 rule I give clients is: if you can't say it clearly over the phone without spelling it out, pick something else. Think about your customer's shopping journey. When someone's rushing to find your site after seeing your product at a trade show, they need to type it quickly and accurately." Maintain your brand identity As you pick your domain name, aligning with your brand name and identity is key. For Ana Colak-Fustin, founder and HR consultant and recruiter for ByRecruiters, she knew the domain name needed to be short, memorable and reflective of her brand's unique value. As Ana shares: "In an industry where many sites are run by media companies, I wanted a name that highlighted recruitment expertise. While building my site (notably on Wix), I considered options like Made by Recruiters and Recommended by Recruiters but ultimately chose the simplest version: ByRecruiters. The name perfectly captures what sets my platform apart-every tip, resource and product is created by a former recruiter and often reviewed or contributed by others in the field. ByRecruiters communicates all of this in just two words." Avoid hyphens Using numbers and hyphens when spoken can be confusing and often misunderstood. The use of hyphens is also strongly linked to spammy behavior, which can have detrimental effects on a website's reputation, potentially leading to decreased user trust and engagement. It's best to stick to letters only or to use no more than one hyphen. Consider the domain extension While it does not directly affect search rankings, it can influence how visitors perceive your website before they even click. A good extension should match your website’s purpose, audience and brand image. Some extensions are broadly recognized and trusted, while others communicate a specific industry, location or type of organization. Think about how your domain will look in search results, marketing materials and email addresses. An extension that feels familiar to your audience can make your site appear more credible and easier to remember. The extension can also shape expectations about your website before someone visits it. For example: LuxuryTravel.vip suggests an exclusive, members-only or premium experience because of the .vip extension. GreenFuture.org feels mission-driven and community-focused because .org is strongly associated with nonprofit organizations. CloudSync.io immediately gives a technology or software impression because .io is commonly used by startups and tech companies. Protect your brand Protect your brand identity by securing multiple extensions and variations of your domain name. This can prevent competitors from using similar names and helps maintain consistency and recognition among your audience. Consider purchasing common misspellings, singular/plural versions and other popular extensions to avoid confusion and protect your brand. Keep it legal Be sure to research any possible trademark violations before you learn how to buy a domain name. This can save you from legal disputes in the future and ensure that your website is compliant with copyright laws. You can check for existing trademarks through sites such as USPTO. Additionally, avoid using trademarked terms or brands in your domain name, which can also lead to legal issues. Learn how to trademark a domain name to avoid any issues. Ready to buy a website domain? Do it with Wix. Registering your domain name There are many types of domain names out there waiting to be owned. But before you can do anything with them, you need to know how to register a domain name. Select a domain registrar: Opt for a reputable domain registrar, like Wix. I want to buy a domain, how do I go about doing it? Run a domain name search: Utilize the registrar's domain name search tool to verify the availability of your desired domain. You might need to explore variations or use a domain name generator to find an open option. Pick your domain: Once you confirm availability, decide on the domain you want and complete the purchasing process. Provide any necessary contact information and pay the domain price. Many registrars offer bundled services, including free web hosting. Tip: With Wix, when you make a website, a paid plan allows you to get a free domain with a one year voucher. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup. Learn more: What's the easiest way to get a domain? How much does a domain name cost? Where to register a domain Country code domains explained with a complete list Firsthand domain insights from a travel entrepreneur When Erica and Shanticleer launched Paper, Planes and Passport, securing a custom domain early was essential. While Erica had a large social media following, she wanted a website to serve as their “home base” for trips, client bookings and communications. “Having a website has been non-negotiable for us,” she says. “It’s where we promote our trips, take payments and communicate. It’s also where we get a chance to understand our people and know what trips we should drop next.” A custom domain gave their brand credibility, made it easy for customers to find them, and helped protect their business. They had already been tagging travel photos with #paperplanesandpassports, and finding the domain available made the name an obvious choice. About Wix’s domain 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. Domain type examples from real Wix sites V-Labs is a software studio using .co, a generic top-level domain. V-labs.co is a clear example of a gTLD in use, the broad category most brands pick when .com is taken but they want a global address. Ayelet Raziel is an artist using .art, a newer niche gTLD. Ayeletraziel.art illustrates a themed top-level domain, one of many domain types now available beyond the classic .com, .net and .org. All The Food is an Irish food blog using .ie, a country-code top-level domain. Allthefood.ie is a clear ccTLD example, the domain type tied to a country that signals local focus and audience. Types of domains FAQ Can I change my domain name in the future? Depending on how well-established your website and internet presence are, changing your domain name might be a challenging process. Carefully consider your domain name before purchasing one and make sure it aligns with your long-term goals. Learn more about how to redirect a domain before making a decision. What is a root domain? A root domain is typically used to represent the homepage of a website and often does not include any prefix or subdomain. For example, wix.com is a root domain while blog.wix.com would be a subdomain. Are domain names important to SEO? Yes, domain names can play a role in search engine optimization (SEO) and marketing strategies. A relevant and easy-to-remember domain name can enhance user experience and increase website traffic. Additionally, having keywords or key phrases in your domain name can also help with SEO rankings. Overall, creating a strong and memorable brand identity should be the top priority when coming up with a domain name. What is the difference between domain and web hosting? A domain is the address of your website, while web hosting is the service that allows your website to be accessible on the internet. Essentially, a domain name is like your home address and a hosting website is like paying rent for your online space. Both are necessary for building and maintaining a website. What is the difference between a domain and a URL? A domain is the core part of a web address that identifies a website, like "wix.com." A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the full web address that leads you to a specific page or file on that website. For example, in the URL "https://www.wix.com/blog/types-of-domains," the domain is "wix.com," while the rest, like "/blog/types-of-domains," specifies the exact location of the page. A URL typically includes a protocol (e.g., "HTTPS"), the domain, and a path that points to a specific resource.

  • Which domain extension is best? Your complete TLD guide

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→ A domain extension gives people a first impression of your site, hints at what it’s about and can even make it feel more trustworthy. If you’re building a website, personal blog or putting together an online portfolio, the TLD you pick can shape how people see your brand. This guide breaks down the most popular options and helps you figure out which domain extension works best for your website. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: domain extension From familiar options like .com and .org to country-specific and unique extensions, every domain has a purpose and audience. Picking the right one can make your website look trustworthy, reach the right people, support your marketing and protect your brand. You’ll learn: The different types of domain endings and what they mean How your domain choice affects your website’s perception Easy tips for picking the right extension Domain costs and rules to remember How to keep your domain safe and secure What is a domain extension? A domain name is essentially your website’s address on the internet, also known as a URL. It’s what users type in their browser to reach your site (e.g., yourbusiness.com). A good domain name or URL is easy to remember, reflects your brand and hints at what type of services or content users can expect. Domains are made up of two parts: Second-Level Domain: This is your business name or unique identifier. Domain Extension (TLD): The Top-Level Domain or the extension that appears after the dot. Domain basics: What is a domain? What is a TLD? How to choose a domain name In Wix.com, the .com is the domain extension of the Wix domain name. The most common domain extensions include .com, .net, .org, .co and .us. While the second-level domain identifies your brand, the domain extension shapes your online identity. Choosing the right extension builds trust and signals professionalism. Types of domain extensions and uses Domain extensions come in many varieties, each serving different purposes. Understanding the types of domains and their categories can help you find the best fit for your online goals. Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) These are the most common domain extensions that serve general purposes. They include: .com for businesses or commercial entities. .org for organizations and nonprofits. .net historically used for network-related companies but often used more broadly today. Learn more: What is .com domain What is .net domain How to get a org domain What is a .info domain? .to domain Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs) These are restricted extensions sponsored by specific organizations or communities. Examples include: .gov for government websites. .edu for educational institutions. .mil for military organizations. Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) These extensions are specific to particular countries or regions. ccTLDs are ideal for businesses targeting a local audience and want to build trust within a specific geographic area. Some examples are: .ch (Switzerland) .uk (United Kingdom) .nl (Netherlands) Learn more: cctld meaning New generic top-level domains (new gTLDs) These are modern extensions created to expand domain options beyond traditional choices. New top-level domains are often industry- or niche-specific, such as: .tech for technology companies. .store for online retailers .blog for content creators and bloggers. Find out more: Is shop a good domain? What is ai domain? Best domain extensions for startups .icu domain meaning Restricted domain extensions Some domain extensions are open to anyone (e.g., .com), while others you need to meet certain criteria to purchase one of these domain name extensions. Many of them have been paid for (sponsored) by an organization or set aside for certain groups. For example, .gov requires verification that the user represents a government entity. Read more: What's the best domain extension for a personal website Cheapest domain extensions Does domain extension matter? Choosing the right domain extension is a key part of your brand. It shapes how people perceive your business and can even impact your website’s online visibility. The best domain extension is the one that aligns with your brand, vision and audience’s expectations. A .vip domain, for instance, can lend a premium, members-only feel, while options like .pro or .expert signal authority. Make it count—your domain name and extension are the foundation of building a strong, memorable online presence. Here’s how domain extensions can impact your brand: Enhance brand perception Your domain extension can impact how potential customers perceive your business. A .com domain is often associated with credibility and professionalism, while a more niche-specific extension like .tech or .shop may signal expertise in a particular industry. Consider what message you want to convey to your audience and choose an extension that aligns with your brand's values and image. If you're naming a technical project or dev tool, it's worth comparing the best domain extensions for developers before you decide. Boost visibility on search engines While the domain extension itself doesn't directly affect SEO, it does play a role in how search engines rank websites. For example, country-specific extensions like .mx or .fr are more likely to rank higher in local search results for users in those areas. Additionally, having a unique or relevant domain extension can help your website stand out in search engine results pages, ultimately driving more website traffic. Target customers geographically Country code top level domains (ccTLDs) can help target a specific geographic audience. This is especially important for businesses that operate in one or a few countries and want to establish trust and credibility with local customers. They also convey a sense of pride of place, showing customers that your business is rooted in and dedicated to their region. Drive creative marketing and engagement New gTLDs offer a great opportunity for creative branding and marketing strategies. They can make your website memorable, unique and stand out from the crowd. For example, a restaurant may use a .menu extension, or a photographer might opt for a .gallery extension to showcase their work. These extensions are also perfect for promoting loyalty programs, such as a .club for exclusive member benefits, or driving sales with a .sale extension for discounts and offers. These creative uses can serve as calls-to-action in marketing campaigns, driving engagement with potential customers. Highlight your offering In some cases, certain domain extensions can immediately reflect the type of business or service you offer. For example, businesses related to technology might use a .tech extension to convey their expertise in that field. A .store extension may make it clear that your business is an eCommerce store. These types of extensions can help potential customers quickly understand what your website has to offer. Likewise, a gaming, contest or sports brand might choose a .win domain to telegraph competition at a glance. Use a domain name generator if you need help coming up with an idea. Already have an idea? Check the availability with a domain name search tool. How to choose domain extension Before you register a domain, take a moment to think about your website’s purpose, audience and long-term plans. The tips below will help you choose an extension that fits your website and is easy for people to remember. Consider your website purpose and audience Think about your website's purpose and the audience you want to attract. If you're a local business targeting customers in a specific region, a country code TLD (ccTLD) could be ideal. For businesses with a global audience, a more general extension like .com or .net may be a better fit. Other popular TLDs include .info, .org, .co, .edu, .biz, .gov and .tv. Research competition and trends Take a look at what domain extensions your competitors are using and research current industry trends. This can help you choose an extension that sets you apart from the competition while also staying relevant in your industry. Explore all options Don't be afraid to think outside the box and explore all available options. While .com may be one of the most popular domain extensions, there are many other creative extensions that can add value to your brand and website. Consider using a domain checker tool, or WHOIS, to see which extensions have available names that align with your business's brand and vision. Check pricing and renewal fees Some domain extensions cost more to register or renew. Older extensions, like .com, tend to be more affordable, but available names may be limited. Pricing depends on factors like popularity, typical buyers and how new the extension is. For example, .io, .ai and .tech are popular with tech companies and often come with a higher price tag. Consider these costs when choosing your domain extension to find one that fits your goals and budget. Learn more: What's the easiest way to get a domain? Keep it simple and memorable Choose a domain name and extension that’s simple to remember and easy to type. Avoid long or complex extensions that might make it harder for people to find your website. Make sure it’s easy to say, too—your domain should be something anyone can share effortlessly in a conversation. 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." Be wary of trademark infringement It's essential to avoid using domain extensions that can infringe on trademarks or copyrights. It not only puts your business at risk but can also damage your brand's reputation. Before registering a domain name with a specific extension, research if that extension is associated with any existing trademarks or brands. Read our guide on how to trademark a domain name for a more in-depth exploration. Register multiple extensions for brand protection To safeguard your brand and prevent others from using similar domain names, consider registering multiple extensions that represent your business. This can help prevent confusion among customers and protect your brand's online presence. Learn more: How to register a domain name Is Wix a domain registrar? Where to register a domain Country code domains explained with a complete list How much does a domain extension cost? The domain name cost varies depending on the type of extension and where you are registering it. Prices can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per year for registration and renewal fees. Highly sought-after domain names that are short, memorable, or use popular keywords can significantly drive up prices. Additionally, some registrars may offer discounts or promotions for certain extensions. It's important to research different registrar options and compare prices before making a decision. Keep in mind that there may also be additional fees for domain privacy protection, deciding to learn how to create a business email or other add-on services. Learn more: How much does a domain name cost? What is a professional email address Firsthand domain insights from a travel entrepreneur When Erica and Shanticleer launched Paper, Planes and Passport, securing a custom domain was one of their first steps. Erica had experience creating online portfolios on Wix from her modelling days in the 2000s, so Wix was their first choice for building a professional website. “I've seen the progression of what you can do with Wix over the years—and it's crazy,” she says. Choosing the right domain—and pairing it with a clear, easy-to-remember extension—helped establish credibility, build trust with their audience and make their brand memorable online. Because they’d already been sharing content under #paperplanesandpassports, finding the matching domain with a strong extension connected their brand identity to a professional website. Why trust Wix’s domain 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. Learn more: How to build your own website from scratch How to make a business website Domain extension examples from real Wix sites V-Labs is a software studio that uses .co, a popular alternative to .com. V-labs.co shows how a short, modern extension keeps a brand-matched address available while still reading professional. Ayelet Raziel is an artist whose portfolio uses the niche .art extension. Ayeletraziel.art shows how a themed top-level domain can describe the field at a glance and make a brand feel purpose-built. Lirona is a creative director whose portfolio runs on the personal .me extension. Lirona.me shows how a short, identity-focused domain suits individuals and reads as a first-person web address. Guide to domain extensions FAQ How many domain extensions are there? There are currently over 1,500 domain extensions available, with new ones being added regularly. Some popular options include .com, .net, .org and country code TLDs like .uk or .ca. There are also many niche-specific extensions like .photography, .pizza, or .yoga. You can see the entire list on the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) website. Who's in charge of domain extensions? Domain extensions are regulated and overseen by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). ICANN oversees the management and administration of the domain name system (DNS) and is responsible for approving and regulating top-level domains (TLDs). Can I create my own domain extension? Yes, you can create your own domain extension, but it’s a challenging and costly process. To launch a new TLD, you’ll need to meet ICANN’s requirements, invest significantly and have the technical expertise to operate as a registry. For most individuals and small businesses, this might not be practical. However, there are plenty of existing domain options to help you build a strong online presence without the complexity. Can I change my domain name extension? Yes, you can change a domain name extension by registering a new domain with the desired extension and setting up a redirect domain to ensure traffic from your old domain points to the new one. Keep in mind that this may cause confusion for existing customers. It's important to carefully consider all factors before changing your domain extension. What if someone is impersonating my brand by using a domain extension? If you believe someone is infringing on your trademark or brand by using a similar domain name with a different extension, you can file a complaint with ICANN. This process allows for the resolution of disputes over domain names that are alleged to be used in bad faith for domain squatting. You may also consider consulting with an intellectual property lawyer for further assistance. What is the best domain extension to use? The best domain extension depends on your business type and what your website is for. com is the oldest and more popular and because of this is often most trusted for businesses. .org suits nonprofits, while .net is good for tech-related sites. Country-specific extensions (e.g., .uk, .ca) work for local businesses. Newer extensions like .tech, .ai or .store help with branding if you're a technology company or online store. Does domain extension affect SEO? Domain extensions don't directly impact your SEO rankings. Search engines care more about things like content quality, relevance, backlinks and site performance. That being said, country-specific extensions like .uk or .ca can tell search engines who your target audience is, which can give you a boost in local search results.

  • Can I buy a domain with Wix and use it somewhere else?

    The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain → Buying a domain through Wix doesn't mean you have to build or host your website on Wix. Like most domain registrars, Wix lets you keep control of your domain, so you can point it to another hosting provider or transfer it to a different registrar if your needs change. In this guide, you'll learn how to use a Wix domain with another website, the difference between connecting and transferring a domain, when each option makes sense and what happens to your Wix website if you decide to move your domain elsewhere. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: buying a Wix domain and using it elsewhere If you buy a domain through Wix, you own the domain and can use it with another website or hosting provider. You don't have to build or host your website on Wix. There are two ways to do this. You can keep your domain registered with Wix and update its DNS settings so it points to another website, or you can transfer the domain to a different registrar. For most people, updating the DNS is the easier option because you don't have to move your domain registration. You simply point your domain to your new website while Wix continues managing the registration. Can you use a Wix domain with another website? A domain name and a website are two different things. Your domain is your web address, like yourbusiness.com, while your website is the collection of pages and files visitors see when they enter that address. Buying your domain through Wix doesn't lock you into using Wix as your website host. If you decide to build your site with another website builder, move to a different website hosting company or run a custom web application, you can still use the domain you purchased through Wix. The domain remains yours, and you decide where it points. The important thing to understand is that changing where your domain points doesn't transfer your website or its files. It only changes where visitors are sent when they type your domain name into their browser. Learn more Domain vs website: what's the difference Web host vs domain registrar Two ways to use a Wix domain elsewhere There are two ways to use a Wix domain with another provider. The best option depends on what you're trying to accomplish. The first option is to keep your domain registered with Wix and simply point it to another website. In this case, Wix continues managing your domain registration and renewals, while your website is hosted somewhere else. This is the simplest approach and works well for most people. The second option is transferring the domain registration to another registrar. After the transfer, the new registrar manages your DNS settings, contact information and future renewals. This is usually only necessary if you want all of your domains managed in one place or you're leaving Wix completely. Find your perfect domain plus 400+ domain extensions on Wix. Search and register your domain in one place. Option 1: Connect the domain to another provider Keeping your domain registered with Wix is a good choice if you're happy with your current registrar and simply want to build or host your website somewhere else. You keep the same domain name and ownership while changing only where your website is hosted. Your new hosting provider will tell you which DNS records or nameservers to use. Once you update those settings in your Wix domain management panel, the internet gradually learns about the new destination. This process, known as DNS propagation, can take up to 48 hours, although many changes appear much sooner. Keeping your domain registered with Wix can be more convenient because you continue managing your domain, renewals and DNS settings in one place. Your website can be hosted elsewhere while Wix remains your domain registrar. Read more: How domain registration works Option 2: Transfer the domain to another registrar A domain transfer moves the registration itself from Wix to another registrar. After the transfer is complete, the new provider becomes responsible for managing your domain, including renewals, DNS settings and contact information. This option makes sense if you already manage several domains with another registrar or want to keep all your websites and domains under the same account. It can simplify administration, especially for businesses with multiple websites. Before starting a transfer, remember that ICANN rules prevent newly registered domains from being transferred during the first 60 days after registration. If your domain was purchased recently, you'll need to wait until that period ends before transferring it away from Wix. How to point a Wix domain to another website Before making any changes, get the connection details from your new hosting provider. Depending on the provider, you'll receive either nameservers or specific DNS records, along with instructions for connecting your domain. Next, update your domain settings in your Wix account using the information provided. After saving the changes, your new DNS settings begin propagating across the internet. This process can take up to 48 hours, although many changes take effect much sooner. During that time, some visitors may see your old website while others see the new one. The process usually looks like this: Get the nameservers or DNS records from your new hosting provider. Update your domain settings in Wix. Wait for DNS propagation to complete. Confirm your domain loads the correct website. Find out more: What are custom domains How to transfer your Wix domain to another registrar Transferring a domain involves more than changing DNS settings because your domain registration is moving to another registrar. The process includes security checks to help prevent unauthorized transfers. You'll typically unlock your domain, request an authorization (EPP) code and start the transfer through your new registrar. In most cases, your website will continue working during the transfer as long as your DNS settings don't change, since transferring a domain doesn't automatically change where it points. If your domain is connected to a Wix website, transferring it away from Wix will disconnect it. To continue using your Wix website, you'll need to reconnect the transferred domain after the transfer is complete or connect a different domain. What happens to your Wix website after moving the domain? What happens depends on the option you choose. If you only change the DNS settings, your Wix website still exists, but visitors are directed to the website hosted elsewhere. Your Wix account and site remain available unless you delete them. If you transfer the domain registration away from Wix, your Wix website is disconnected from that domain. The website itself isn't deleted, but people won't reach it through your previous web address until another domain is connected. If you also use email with your domain, make sure those DNS records are preserved during the move. Otherwise, your website may work correctly while your email stops receiving messages. You can register a domain directly on the Wix website builder and add Whois privacy and domain security for extra protection. Can you transfer a domain away from Wix anytime? Not always. Domain transfers are governed by industry rules designed to protect domain owners and help prevent unauthorized transfers. For example, under ICANN rules, most domains can't be transferred to another registrar within the first 60 days after they're registered. Other factors can also delay a transfer. Your domain may need to be unlocked before the transfer begins, and some domains may have registry-specific restrictions or other requirements that must be completed first. If your goal is simply to use your domain with a website hosted somewhere else, updating your DNS settings is often the faster option. It lets you point your domain to a new website without transferring the domain registration, so you can avoid many of the requirements involved in a registrar transfer. DNS vs. transferring: What's the difference? Many people assume these are the same thing, but they solve different problems. Updating DNS changes where your website lives. Transferring changes who manages your domain registration. A simple way to think about it is that DNS changes the destination, while a transfer changes the company responsible for your domain. In many cases, you can achieve everything you need by updating DNS without transferring ownership. Choose the option that matches your goal: Use another website builder or hosting provider: Update your DNS settings. Manage all your domains with one registrar: Transfer the domain registration. Keep your current registration but change websites: Update your DNS settings. Leave Wix completely: Transfer the domain after the 60-day waiting period, if applicable. Learn more: Domain name management Domain name mistakes Common reasons people use a Wix domain somewhere else Many website owners purchase a domain first and decide where to build their website later. Others start with Wix and eventually move to another platform as their needs change. In both cases, the domain can continue to be used without purchasing a new web address. Businesses also move domains for operational reasons. Some prefer managing all domains through one registrar, while developers may point a Wix-purchased domain to a custom application, online store or company server hosted elsewhere. Understanding the difference between pointing a domain and transferring it helps you choose the quickest solution. If your only goal is to launch a website on another platform, updating your DNS settings is usually all that's required. When you upgrade to a premium plan, you'll even get a voucher for a free domain name for your first year. Buying a domain with Wix and using it elsewhere FAQ: Do I own my domain if I bought it through Wix? Yes. Purchasing a domain through Wix gives you ownership of the domain registration, and you can choose where the domain points or transfer it to another registrar when eligible. Can I use my Wix domain with another website builder? Yes. You can point your domain to another website by updating its DNS settings or transfer the registration to another registrar if you prefer. Will my Wix website be deleted if I transfer my domain? No. Your Wix website remains in your account, but it will no longer be connected to that domain until you assign another one. How long does it take for DNS changes to work? DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to fully propagate across the internet, although many updates appear much sooner. Why can't I transfer my new domain? Newly registered domains are generally subject to ICANN's 60-day transfer restriction. During that time, you can still point the domain to another website by updating its DNS settings, but you can't transfer the registration to another registrar yet.

  • Magento to Wix migration: the complete guide (2026)

    Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce→ If you've been running your online store on Magento (now Adobe Commerce), you already know the drill: every update means developer hours, every new feature means a custom build and every month brings another hosting or maintenance bill. Magento still powers roughly 128,000 active stores worldwide, but for a growing number of those merchants the overhead has become harder to justify. In 2026, the calculus has changed. Wix eCommerce is a complete platform for growing businesses, with enterprise-grade selling tools, a built-in marketing suite and a visual design editor powered by AI. Merchants who make the switch are cutting operational costs, moving faster and selling more without the engineering overhead Magento demands. The payoff is real. Onefinity CNC, a family-owned Canadian maker of commercial CNC machines, built their business on Wix and used it to drive $1.9M in Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales with 672 orders processed: three times their previous year's volume and a 368% year-on-year increase in gross payment volume. Magento-to-Wix migration is a known path, but it still requires careful planning. Data migration, SEO continuity, payment configuration and launch sequencing all carry real risk if you rush them. This guide walks you through all 11 steps. TL;DR: Magento to Wix migration Platform: Wix eCommerce is an all-in-one commerce platform serving businesses from small online stores to high-revenue brands. It includes free website hosting, security and updates in a single subscription. Migration time: Weeks, depending on catalog size and data complexity. Three migration methods: CSV product import (recommended for most stores), Cart2Cart automated migration app (paid service, free to install) or a Wix Studio Partner developer. What you get on Wix: Wix Harmony AI-powered design editor, full CSV catalog import, Wix Payments with Buy Now Pay Later support, unified in-person and online selling with Wix POS, flexible shipping with carrier integrations, email marketing, abandoned cart recovery, loyalty program, gift cards, product reviews, members area, wishlist, advanced discounts and a full analytics dashboard. All included in your plan, no extra subscriptions. Security: Wix’s website security manages hosting, SSL, DDoS protection and compliance so you never have to patch a server or maintain security extensions. SEO risk: Manageable if you set up 301 redirects for every indexed Magento URL before launch. Wix includes a built-in URL Redirect Manager. Developer required: No, for most stores. Complex catalogs or custom Magento attributes may benefit from a migration partner. Ready to make the switch? With Wix eCommerce, everything you need to migrate, launch and grow is already built in. Start your migration today. How to migrate from Magento to Wix in 11 steps Moving your store from Magento to Wix involves 11 clearly defined steps covering data export, store setup, design, eCommerce SEO and launch. Follow them in order to protect your data, your search rankings and your customers. Audit your Magento store data Back up your Magento store Create your Wix account and choose a plan Choose your migration method Migrate your product catalog Migrate customers Decide on order history Design your storefront with Wix Harmony Configure payments, shipping and taxes Set up URL redirects Run QA and go live 01. Audit your Magento store data Before a single product moves, you need a clear picture of what you have. A thorough audit is what separates a clean migration from one that surfaces problems after launch when they're far more costly to fix. Decide what to migrate (and what to leave behind) A platform migration is also a natural moment to clean house. Not everything in your Magento store is worth bringing over. Go through your Magento admin with fresh eyes, keep active products that generate revenue and archive or retire discontinued SKUs. CMS pages that haven't seen traffic in a year don't need to move. The same goes for blog posts with no organic footprint, porting them adds work without adding value. What should move: active products with complete attribute data, customer accounts, order history relevant to your current customer base, URLs with search rankings or backlinks and any content pages that are driving organic traffic. Know what requires extra planning Certain Magento data structures don't have a direct equivalent in Wix. Identify these early so they don't become surprises mid-migration: Account credentials: Cannot be transferred for security reasons. Plan to send account activation emails to your customer base at launch. Draft this message now, you'll want it ready to go the moment the store is live. Products with multiple configurations: Magento's configurable product system maps to Wix variants, but complex option matrices should be reviewed manually after import. Attribute data: Magento attribute sets are more detailed than Wix's default product fields. Decide how each custom attribute maps to Wix before you start importing, not after. Pricing rules and customer groups: Check whether Wix's discount engine and pricing rules cover your specific requirements before migration begins. Content blocks and page widgets: There is no equivalent content block system in Wix. Key content will need to be rebuilt natively using Wix Harmony's page editor. Pre-migration export checklist ☐ Complete product export: all SKUs, variant data, images and product descriptions ☐ Customer database including contact details, addresses and purchase history ☐ Every indexed Magento URL across products, category pages and CMS content ☐ Active 404 report, migrate clean URLs only, not broken ones ☐ Pricing rules: any tier pricing or customer group discount structures ☐ Content worth keeping: blog posts and landing pages with real organic traffic ☐ Order history scope: decide your cutover date before you start, not mid-migration ☐ Data from third-party extensions you plan to carry over (reviews, loyalty balances) Issues to get ahead of URL structure differences: Magento commonly uses .html extensions and nested category paths. Wix uses a cleaner, flatter structure. Every indexed URL that changes needs a 301 redirect, covered in detail in Step 10. Navigation and filtering: Magento's attribute-based layered navigation works differently from Wix's product filtering. Map your filtering logic before you build out your Wix collections. Attribute data preservation: Plan how custom attributes that customers use for product research (specs, dimensions, materials) will be represented on your Wix product pages. 02. Back up your Magento store Run a full backup of your Magento database and file system before touching anything. This is your safety net if anything goes wrong mid-migration. Store the backup outside your Magento server, cloud storage works well. Backup checklist ☐ Full database export (all tables, not just product and order data) ☐ File system backup including media and uploads ☐ Backup stored in a separate location from your Magento server ☐ Backup verified by test restore or file integrity check ☐ Date and version of your Magento installation documented Tip: Your Magento store keeps running throughout the migration. You are building your Wix store in parallel and only switching DNS at go-live. Keep your backup current by running an additional backup the day before launch. 03. Create your Wix account and choose a plan Sign up for Wix and select a Business or Business Elite plan that matches your store's volume requirements. If you are new to the platform and want a broader overview before diving into migration, our guides on how to sell online and how to start an online store cover the full setup from scratch. Every Wix eCommerce plan includes the full suite of tools covered in this guide. There are no separate subscriptions for email marketing, abandoned cart recovery, automations, product reviews, gift cards, the loyalty program, the members area with wishlist or the advanced discount engine. Everything comes with your plan. Plan Best for Business Growing stores, standard catalog, core selling features Business Elite High-volume stores, advanced shipping, priority support Tip: If you're unsure which plan fits, start with Business. You can upgrade without migrating your data or rebuilding your store. 04. Choose your migration method There’s no single right way to move data from Magento to Wix. The best approach depends on your catalog size, data complexity and technical resources. Store complexity Best approach When it fits Small catalog (under 500 SKUs), simple pricing CSV import Limited budget, straightforward product data, no custom attributes Medium catalog, standard product types Cart2Cart Need speed without heavy dev involvement; standard Magento data structures Large catalog, configurable products, tier pricing Wix Studio Partner Complex attribute mappings, customer group pricing, large catalog volume Multi-store, custom ERP integrations Developer with custom scripts Heavy customization, unique data relationships, ERP sync requirements A quick note on automated tools: "Automated" doesn't mean "hands-off." You still need to validate data mappings before running the migration, test the output thoroughly and plan for the final cutover. Don’t assume a tool will handle your Magento-specific data structures perfectly without review. Whatever method you choose, run a test migration before the real one. Import your data into a staging environment first, verify the output and fix any issues before going live. 05. Migrate your product catalog This is the core of your migration. Export your full product catalog from Magento including all variants, images, descriptions, pricing, categories and inventory levels. Map your Magento fields to Wix's product data structure using the Wix CSV template, then import into Wix Stores. One of the biggest differences between Wix and Magento is how much comes included. For any eCommerce business that has spent years stitching together Magento extensions, the contrast is immediate: on Wix, all of it is built in. Follow the right import sequence Import in this order to keep data relationships intact: Products first: All variants, images and pricing. Customers second: Link them to the product catalog already in place. Historical orders last: These reference both products and customers, so they should move after those datasets are established. Post-import QA checklist ☐ Random sample check: verify titles, descriptions, images and pricing across 10–15 products per category ☐ Top 20 revenue-generating SKUs: verify every detail including variants, weights and inventory counts ☐ Most complex products (multiple variants, bundles): confirm variant logic translated correctly ☐ Product publication status: are draft products accidentally published, or live products stuck in draft? ☐ Inventory levels: do counts in Wix match your Magento export? ☐ Weights and dimensions: critical for accurate shipping calculations ☐ Pricing: check both standard and sale pricing Pay special attention to how Magento's configurable products were translated into Wix variants. If a product had a complex matrix of options in Magento (size, color, material), verify that all combinations exist and are priced correctly in Wix. 06. Migrate customers Export your customer list from Magento (name, email, address) and import it into Wix. This preserves your customer base and lets you use Wix's email marketing and automation tools with your existing audience from day one. Magento customer passwords cannot be migrated directly. Send a password reset email to your customer base after launch to get them set up with their new Wix accounts. Write this email before launch day, it should be ready to send as soon as the store goes live. Customer migration checklist ☐ Customer CSV exported from Magento with all required fields ☐ Data cleaned: remove duplicates, fix formatting issues ☐ Customer list imported into Wix and verified ☐ Password reset email drafted and ready to send at launch ☐ Loyalty points or rewards data documented (for manual import or re-crediting) 07. Decide on order history Historical order data can be migrated using Cart2Cart or a developer if preserving it within your Wix dashboard matters operationally. For most merchants, keeping a CSV archive of historical orders and starting fresh in Wix is the simpler and faster path. Decide before you start, not mid-migration. Option Best for Migrate order history to Wix Teams who need order history in the dashboard for warranty, support or returns workflows Archive as CSV Merchants who only need historical reference occasionally Hybrid: migrate recent orders only Stores with long history but only current-year orders actively referenced Tip: If you migrate order history, determine your cutover date in advance. Migrating every order since 2015 adds time and complexity. Most merchants only need the past 12–24 months in their active dashboard. 08. Design your storefront with Wix Harmony Building your new storefront doesn't require a theme developer or front-end engineer. Open Wix Harmony, start from a website template in your industry and customize it to match your brand using the drag-and-drop editor or by prompting the AI agent directly. Choosing your template Wix offers eCommerce website templates across all major eCommerce categories. When evaluating templates, prioritize: Page speed: Some templates are faster than others and speed directly impacts conversion. Product page layout: Do you need tabs, spec tables, size guides or ingredient lists? Check what the template supports before committing. Mobile UX: Test every template on a phone before choosing. Over half of eCommerce purchases now happen on mobile. Collection filtering: If your Magento store relied on layered navigation, verify the template supports robust product filtering. Don't replicate Magento's complexity if it isn't driving revenue. Migration is a chance to simplify. If your Magento store had dozens of custom templates and widgets, audit what actually converts before rebuilding any of it. Set up your brand kit Connect your brand kit (colors, fonts, logo) and Wix applies it consistently across every page automatically. Every Wix Harmony site is also automatically responsive, your storefront adapts to any screen size without a separate mobile build. "For years, the industry forced a tradeoff: move fast and lose control, or be precise and lose time. Wix Harmony removes that compromise, giving efficiency, flexibility and full creative freedom in a single platform." — Omer Shai, CMO at Wix Learn more about building with Wix Harmony: What is Wix Harmony? Is Wix Harmony easy to use? Wix Harmony for small business owners 09. Configure payments, shipping and taxes A misconfigured payments or shipping setup means lost revenue from day one. Don’t rush this step. Setting up the right online payment solutions allows customers can complete purchases smoothly across different regions and payment preferences. Set up payments Start by listing every payment method active on your Magento store. Map each one to a Wix equivalent: Wix Payments covers credit cards, debit cards and digital wallets in supported countries with no additional transaction fees. Buy Now Pay Later options are available through Wix Payments so shoppers can split purchases into installments at checkout. Third-party gateways are available if you need specific providers for particular regions. If your Magento store used multiple payment gateways for different regions, map out which Wix option covers each scenario before setup. Set up shipping Wix supports flat rates, weight-based rates, price-based rates, local delivery and in-store pickup. Integrations with leading carriers allow label printing and real-time tracking updates directly from your dashboard. Before launch, finalize: ☐ Shipping zones and which countries/regions you serve ☐ Rate strategy per zone (free, flat, calculated or tiered) ☐ Local delivery and in-store pickup configuration ☐ Package dimensions and weights (incorrect dimensions cause unexpected charges at checkout) ☐ Carrier integrations for label printing and tracking ☐ Returns shipping: who pays and how labels are generated Configure taxes Wix handles tax calculations automatically for most regions, but you still need to validate the configuration, especially for US merchants with multi-state nexus, EU VAT or product-specific exemptions. ☐ Confirm sales tax registration numbers and nexus obligations by region ☐ Verify product taxability for any exempt or special-rate products ☐ If selling digital goods, confirm VAT/GST rules for each destination country ☐ Test tax calculations on sample orders across your key markets before launch Learn: how to calculate sales tax. Payment and checkout test plan ☐ Test each payment method with a real transaction ☐ Process a full refund and a partial refund ☐ Verify order confirmation and shipping notification emails send correctly ☐ Test BNPL flow end to end ☐ Confirm tax and shipping calculations are accurate across your key regions 10. Set up URL redirects This step is critical for SEO. Magento and Wix use different URL structures, which means every product, category and CMS page URL from your Magento store will change. Without 301 redirects in place, your search rankings will drop and customers following old links will hit dead ends. Identify the pages that matter most Not all pages carry equal SEO weight. Prioritize: Top landing pages by organic traffic (check Google Search Console or analytics) Top-performing product pages by revenue and organic impressions High-ranking collection pages that drive category-level traffic Blog posts and content pages with meaningful organic traffic Any page with a significant backlink profile These are your "protect at all costs" URLs. Every one needs a working 301 redirect on launch day. Missing even a handful of high-value redirects can cause traffic drops that take months to recover. Build your redirect map Export your top URLs. Pull your top 500–1,000 URLs by organic traffic from Google Search Console. Also export any existing Magento URL rewrites, you don't want to create redirect chains. Map the patterns. Most Magento-to-Wix URL changes follow predictable patterns. Category pages become collection pages. Product pages follow Wix's URL structure. CMS pages become standalone pages. Identify the pattern rules first and handle exceptions manually. Account for Magento URL rewrites. Magento often generates multiple URLs for the same product. Check your Magento URL rewrite table and make sure all active versions redirect correctly. Validate mappings. For each old URL, confirm the new Wix URL exists and loads correctly. A redirect to a 404 is worse than no redirect at all. Import via Wix's URL Redirect Manager. Wix supports bulk redirect imports. Format your file with the old path and new path for each entry. Spot-check. After importing, manually test at least 20–30 redirects, prioritizing your highest-traffic pages. Tip: If your Magento store had thousands of URL rewrites, don't redirect every single one. Prioritize pages with traffic, backlinks or revenue. For long-tail pages with zero traffic and no backlinks, a well-structured 404 page is often more practical than maintaining thousands of redirects indefinitely. 11. Run QA and go live This is your go-live rehearsal. Don’t skip it and don’t rush it. Full QA checklist ☐ Browse every product category and verify products display correctly ☐ Complete a full purchase flow with a test order ☐ Test each payment method including BNPL ☐ Check every 301 redirect with a browser or redirect-checking tool ☐ Test your abandoned cart automation by adding items and waiting for the email trigger ☐ Verify all email marketing automations are active ☐ Test the gift card purchase and redemption flow ☐ Test the loyalty program: earn points, redeem at checkout ☐ Check your store on mobile across at least two different devices ☐ Confirm tax and shipping calculations are correct for your key markets ☐ Verify all Wix POS workflows if selling in person ☐ Test the Wix mobile app: place and process a test order Launch sequence When QA is clean, update your DNS to point your domain to Wix during your lowest-traffic window. Lower your DNS TTL 24–48 hours in advance so changes propagate faster. Have a rollback plan ready in case anything goes critically wrong. Monitor traffic and orders closely for the first 48 hours. Check Google Search Console for crawl errors. Verify that your top 10 organic landing pages are resolving and indexed correctly. Tip: Send your password reset email to your customer base as soon as the store goes live. Getting customers into their new Wix accounts quickly reduces friction for the first post-launch purchases. What you get with Wix eCommerce One of the biggest differences between Wix and Magento is how much comes included. On Magento, every marketing tool, review system and retention feature is a separate extension to buy, maintain and update. On Wix, all of it is built in. Wix Harmony: AI-powered design editor Wix Harmony is the next generation of the Wix editor, launched in 2026. It merges drag-and-drop precision with an AI agent you can prompt in natural language. Adjusting layouts, typography, colors and imagery feels as natural as describing what you want. Every site is automatically responsive. A built-in brand kit centralizes your fonts, colors and design assets so your store looks consistent from homepage to eCommerce checkout. Learn more: AI in eCommerce → Full catalog migration via CSV Wix Stores accepts product imports via a standard CSV file covering all the product data that matters: names, SKUs, full descriptions, pricing, categories, inventory levels, variants and product images. Your Magento export maps directly into Wix with some formatting adjustments. You can also export your Wix catalog back to CSV at any time for full data portability. Three ways to migrate your data There are three paths for moving your store from Magento to Wix. CSV import is the most direct method for merchants with straightforward product data. Download Wix's CSV template, map your Magento fields and import. Covers products, images, variants, inventory and categories. Cart2Cart is an automated migration app available on the Wix App Market. It supports Magento and over 80 other platforms. You select what to transfer (products, customers, orders, categories) and Cart2Cart handles the rest. A free demo migration lets you verify data mapping before paying. Cart2Cart is free to install; the migration service is paid and priced by store size. A Wix Studio Partner is the best path for complex stores with custom Magento attributes, tiered pricing structures or tens of thousands of SKUs. A specialist developer can build custom export scripts, handle data transformation and makes sure edge cases are accounted for. Magento to Wix migration checklist Use this checklist to track your migration from start to launch. Pre-migration Store data audit complete Full Magento backup (database and files) All indexed URLs exported Website migration method selected (CSV, Cart2Cart or developer) Wix account created and plan chosen Data migration Product catalog imported and spot-checked Product images verified Inventory levels matched Customer list imported Order history decision made (migrate or archive) Store setup Storefront designed and approved in Wix Harmony Product pages, collections and homepage configured Wix payment processing connected and tested (including BNPL if applicable) Shipping zones, rates, local delivery and carrier integrations set up Tax rules configured Email marketing automations active Abandoned cart recovery enabled Loyalty program configured Product reviews app installed Gift card pages live Discount pricing rules and coupons configured Members area and wishlist enabled Wix POS configured if selling in person Wix mobile app installed and tested SEO and launch All 301 redirects in place and tested Meta titles and descriptions set on key pages Full QA pass completed DNS updated and propagation confirmed Post-launch monitoring active (first 48 hours) Ready to migrate your Magento store to Wix? Wix is an all-in-one eCommerce platform that supports physical products, services and specialized business models, all from a single backend, no plugins required. When you move from Magento, you are not just changing where your store lives. You are changing how much of your business runs itself. Instead of managing infrastructure and paying developers to maintain the basics, you focus on selling: designing a storefront, running email campaigns and automated follow-ups, recovering abandoned carts and rewarding customers with a loyalty program, gift cards and wishlist features. Wix supports long-term eCommerce growth with built-in tools designed to increase customer lifetime value, all included in your plan, no extra subscriptions. "Having our own website and shop on Wix is what has actually allowed us to truly become a fully-fledged brand in the eCommerce space." — Laurel Murray, founder of Kissamo (1,000+ five-star reviews) Move your store to Wix and get back to what matters, with everything you need to sell, market and grow built in from day one. Start your Wix eCommerce store today → Magento to Wix FAQ How long does a Magento to Wix migration take? Most migrations take between two and eight weeks depending on catalog size, data complexity and how much design work you want to do. Simple stores with a few hundred products and standard data can be live in two weeks. Larger stores with thousands of SKUs, complex pricing structures or significant customization needs should plan for four to eight weeks. Will migrating from Magento to Wix hurt my SEO? Not if you handle redirects correctly. The biggest SEO risk in any platform migration is broken URLs. If your old Magento product and category pages return 404 errors instead of redirecting to their Wix equivalents, you will lose rankings and organic traffic. Set up 301 redirects for every indexed URL before launch. Wix's URL Redirect Manager makes this straightforward. Learn how to set up a 301 redirect for a page on your site. Can I migrate my Magento customers to Wix? Yes. You can import customer names, email addresses and shipping addresses via CSV. Passwords cannot be migrated for security reasons. Send a password reset email to your customer base after launch so they can set up their Wix accounts. Does Wix support the same product data as Magento? Wix Stores supports products with multiple variants (size, color, material), custom options, images, SKUs, inventory management, weight and pricing. Magento's attribute set system is more granular than Wix's default structure. If you rely heavily on custom attributes for filtering or faceted search, review how your data maps to Wix before migrating. Most standard product data transfers cleanly. Learn more: eCommerce shipping on Wix What happens to my Magento store during migration? Your Magento store keeps running throughout the migration. You build and configure your Wix store in parallel and only switch your domain DNS to Wix when you are ready to go live. Zero downtime for your existing customers. Once you are live, eCommerce management on Wix: orders, inventory, customers, analytics all runs from a single dashboard. Do I need a developer to migrate from Magento to Wix? Not necessarily. Most merchants with straightforward catalogs and standard product data can complete the migration using CSV imports or Cart2Cart without developer involvement. If your store has complex custom attributes, tens of thousands of SKUs or highly customized Magento functionality, a Wix Studio Partner can ensure a clean migration. Once you are set up, everything you need to know about how to sell on Wix is covered in our getting started guides. Does Wix charge extra for email marketing and abandoned cart recovery? No. eCommerce marketing tools on Wix like email campaigns, abandoned cart recovery, Wix Automations, popups, the loyalty program and advanced discounts are all included in your plan subscription. The members area, wishlist functionality and digital gift cards are included too. No separate app fees required. Can I sell in person with Wix? Yes. Wix POS lets you sell at physical locations using the Wix mobile app and compatible card readers. Your inventory, orders and customer data sync automatically between your online store and your in-person point of sale. If you are moving from Magento and also run a physical retail presence, Wix gives you a unified commerce operation without a separate POS system. Is Wix eCommerce secure? Yes. Wix provides enterprise-grade security at the infrastructure level including SSL certificates, DDoS protection and PCI compliance for payment processing. Updates and security patches are managed by Wix, not by your team. This is a significant operational difference from Magento, where security responsibility sits with whoever manages your installation. How does Wix eCommerce compare to Magento for large catalogs? Wix eCommerce supports businesses from small online stores to high-revenue brands looking to grow their eCommerce business beyond what legacy platforms can support cost-effectively. For very large catalogs with complex custom attribute structures, review your specific data requirements before migrating. Wix also connects to ERP, CRM, WMS and PIM systems through developer tools for merchants with complex operational needs. Learn more: Agentic commerce and the future of eCommerce

  • How to create a UGC portfolio that lands clients (+ examples)

    Ready to let your work shine? Build your portfolio → If you’re learning how to create a UGC portfolio, a professional website is essential for landing paid brand deals and turning content creation into a career. A strong portfolio website acts as a central place where brands can view your best work, understand your niche and contact you directly for collaborations. This guide walks you through every stage of how to make a portfolio for UGC, from gathering content to hitting publish. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap to building a website that books clients. With Wix’s portfolio builder, you can create a professional, eye-catching portfolio in just a few clicks. Customizable templates and intuitive tools make it easy to showcase your work with confidence, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor. TL;DR: how to create a UGC portfolio A UGC portfolio is your proof of value because shows brands what you can create, how you think and how you drive results. The strongest portfolios are simple, visual and built to convert interest into inquiries. To create one, showcase your best UGC (client work or spec content), use a custom domain name and organize your site with a clear bio, work samples, social proof and contact details. Add brief context to each piece with goals, outcomes and strong CTAs, optimize for SEO and keep your portfolio updated as your skills grow. Features of a great UGC portfolio Feature of a great UGC portfolio Why its important High-quality UGC examples Shows brands your creative skill, production quality and ability to deliver platform-ready content Clear niche and positioning Helps brands quickly see if you’re the right creator for their audience and goals Social proof or results Builds trust through testimonials, engagement metrics or past performance Strong calls to action Guides brands toward the next step, like emailing you, booking a call or starting a collaboration Easy contact options Makes it simple for brands to reach out and increases the chance of turning interest into paid work Learn more: How to create a marketing portfolio How to create a modeling portfolio How to create a photography portfolio How to make a business portfolio How to make an interview portfolio How to create a UGC portfolio in 10 steps Building a portfolio doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these steps to get your work online and start pitching to brands: Gather your content Pick a domain and website host Choose a website builder and template Structure your portfolio Add key details Make yourself easy to contact Stay social Get personal with a blog (optional) Optimize for SEO Get feedback and keep your UGC portfolio updated 01. Gather your content Start by collecting the videos and photos that best represent your style. Brands look for variety, so try to include different types of UGC, such as unboxing videos, testimonials, voiceovers and aesthetic product shots. If you have previous client work that performed well, put that at the top of your list. If you're new to the industry and don't have client work yet, create spec content. This is practice content made for brands you love, used to demonstrate what you can do. Film a review of your favorite skincare product or an unboxing of a recent purchase. Treat these videos with the same level of effort you would for a paid job. Organize these files by category (e.g., beauty, tech and lifestyle) to make the next steps easier. Pro tip: If you're stuck on where to start, exploring the best portfolio websites can provide loads of inspiration. 02. Pick a domain and website host Your domain name is your address on the internet. It should be simple, professional and easy to remember. Most creators use their own name (e.g., janesmithugc.com) or their social handle. Using a custom domain adds a layer of professionalism that sets you apart from creators sending Google Drive links. Use a domain name search tool to check availability, or try a domain name generator for creative ideas if your first choice isn’t available. Once you have a name in mind, you need a website host. This is the service that keeps your website online. Some platforms even offer free website hosting options, making it easier to get started. Check availability for your desired name early, as popular names get snapped up quickly. Explore these portfolio name ideas. 03. Choose a website builder and template You don't need to be a tech expert to learn how to develop a website. Wix makes portfolio website creation easy with drag-and-drop tools and pre-designed layouts. Look for a template that is clean and puts the focus on your videos and images. When browsing website design templates, choose one designed for creative portfolios. These often come with built-in galleries and video players. Remember, the goal is to let your content do the talking, so avoid cluttered designs that might distract potential clients. Check out Wix's templates: Portfolio website templates Personal website templates Photography website templates Discover the best portfolio website builders to get started on your journey. 04. Structure your portfolio Good website management means ensuring easy navigation so brands can easily find what they’re looking for. Include these essential sections: About me Write a short intro about who you are. Mention your niche (e.g., fitness, pet care and home decor), your experience level and what inspires you. Explain your approach to content. Do you specialize in fast turnaround times, humorous storytelling or educational clips? This helps brands see if you are a culture fit. Content gallery This is the heart of your portfolio. Display your high-quality video galleries prominently. If possible, use device mockups (frames that look like iPhones) to show how the content will look on social media. Include a section for photography if you offer that service. Testimonials Social proof builds trust. If you have worked with brands before, ask for a short review and post it here. If you are new, you can include engagement results from your personal channels, like "Video reached 10k views organically." Contact info Make it impossible to miss your contact details. Put your email address and links to your social media profiles in the header or footer of every page. Brands shouldn't have to hunt for a way to pay you. Expert tip from Hani Safe, product lead (Showcase) at Wix: "An outstanding portfolio is all about storytelling. It’s not just a showcase of work but a narrative that weaves together a professional’s skills, creativity and personality." 05. Add key details Once the structure is in place, fill in the details that sell your services. Don't just dump videos on a page; give them context. Video descriptions Add a one-liner under each video explaining its goal. Was it an unboxing intended to build hype? A tutorial designed to educate? If you have data, mention it here (e.g., "Generated 200 clicks to website"). Calls to action (CTAs) Brands hire UGC creators to drive action. Demonstrate your ability to write engaging text by adding strong captions and CTAs on your portfolio. Phrases like "Let's create something together" or "Book a discovery call" guide the visitor on what to do next. 06. Make yourself easy to contact A contact form is standard, but you should offer multiple ways to get in touch. Some brands prefer email, while others might want to DM you on Instagram. Include a direct email link (mailto:) so it opens their email app automatically. If you use scheduling software for calls, embed that link directly on your contact page. The fewer clicks it takes to reach you, the higher the chance of landing a deal. 07. Stay social Your portfolio is your home base, but your social channels are where you build community. Link your TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn profiles clearly. Ensure your social profiles match the branding on your portfolio. Use the same profile picture and bio keywords. This creates a consistent experience for brands moving between your social media and your website. When you pitch to brands via email or DM, include your portfolio link. It looks much more professional than attaching large video files that clog up inboxes. Use the link in pitches to small brands in your niche to show you're serious about your craft. 08. Get personal with a blog (optional) Starting a blog can help you connect with brands on a deeper level. You can write about your creative process, behind-the-scenes of a shoot or trends you are seeing in the industry. If you’re unsure how to start a blog, you can use a blog maker to make the process smooth. This positions you as an expert in the field. It also gives you more web content to share on LinkedIn, which is a massive platform for finding brand deals. Expert tip from George Nguyen, editor of the Wix SEO Hub: "Blogging is still one of the best ways to build out your online presence. For smaller websites, creating topical blog posts enables you to create keyword-rich content that tells potential site visitors and search engines what your brand is all about—this can be a crucial advantage for local business websites, portfolio websites, etc. where you may not have as many opportunities to convey (in text) your expertise or how your business is unique." 09. Optimize for SEO Search engine optimization and marketing strategies help brands find your web address on Google. Use keywords that brands might search for, such as "UGC creator for beauty brands" or "Gen Z content creator." Place these keywords naturally in your page titles, headings and the "About Me" section. Rename your image and video files with descriptive names before uploading them, rather than leaving them as "IMG_5943.jpg." Make sure your website is mobile-friendly too, as most users browse on their phones. A good website builder with built-in SEO features can handle much of this for you, while also improving your website performance to keep visitors engaged. 10. Get feedback and keep your UGC portfolio updated Before you start sending your link to dream clients, ask a friend or mentor to review it. Have them check for broken links, typos or videos that don't load. Your portfolio is never truly finished. As you create better content and work with bigger brands, update your site. Remove older, lower-quality videos and replace them with your latest wins. Keeping it fresh shows that you are active and improving. Why you need a UGC portfolio A UGC portfolio is your best tool for landing brand deals. It shows your creativity, style and results in one place, making it easy for brands to see your work, understand your niche and decide to hire you. Every UGC creator benefits from having a portfolio that showcases their value. What to include in a UGC portfolio Your portfolio is where you prove you’ve got the goods. To grab a brand’s attention and show off what you can do, make sure to include these essentials: A catchy intro: Start with a short bio that introduces who you are, your niche and what makes your style unique. Keep it friendly and to the point. Your top-tier work: Feature your best videos, photos and social media posts. Pick content that really demonstrates your creativity. The proof is in the pudding: If you have them, share stats or testimonials that show how your content performs, like engagement rates or growth. A menu of your services: Clearly list what you offer, whether it’s video creation, product photography or scriptwriting. Make it easy for brands to see how you can help. A way to get in touch: Wrap it up with a clear call to action. Add a clickable email address, a booking form or links to your social profiles. Keep things organized and visually clean so it’s easy for potential partners to say "yes" to working with you. Learn more: How much does a portfolio website cost? UGC portfolio examples built on Wix Explore how these standout UGC portfolios showcase creators’ skills and make a strong impression on potential brand partners. Each of these web design portfolio examples uses Wix to highlight authentic content, clear personal branding and engaging layouts that are tailored to the creator’s niche and style. 01. Wilhelmina Rose Wilhelmina Rose’s portfolio showcases her expertise as a social media and marketing strategist. The homepage features a vibrant grid of eye-catching case studies, some with video previews, designed to immediately capture attention. Each case study highlights her approach and results. Like what you see? Create your own UGC portfolio with this same template. Template name: Graphic design portfolio website template 02. Lauren Nicole Miller Lauren Nicole Miller’s portfolio puts her personality and voice front and center, giving her full control over her narrative. She uses typography and layout to make her text-heavy site visually inviting, balancing flair with professionalism. Her detailed resume is easy to navigate with an anchor menu and a downloadable one-page version. Like what you see? Create your own UGC portfolio with this same template. Template name: Journalist website template 03. Brandon Dexter Brandon Dexter’s portfolio is sleek and professional, with a dark theme and clean typography that create a sophisticated feel. His case studies are clearly structured, outlining the challenge, solution and results, which highlight his strategic thinking. Like what you see? Create your own UGC portfolio with this same template. Template name: Photographer website template 04. Lauren Price Lauren Price's portfolio feels warm and approachable, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of who she is. Personal photos and a friendly tone make it easy to connect with her. Client testimonials are front and center, building trust and showing the real impact of her work. By focusing on relationships and credibility, Lauren’s portfolio clearly demonstrates why she’s a freelancer clients can rely on. Like what you see? Create your own UGC portfolio with this same template. Template name: Start from scratch website template How to create a UGC portfolio FAQ How do I create a portfolio without any UGC experience? You don't need paid clients to start. Create "spec ads" (speculative advertisements) for brands you already own and love. Film yourself using the product, edit it to look like a real ad and upload it to your site. This shows brands the quality of work you can deliver. What should a UGC portfolio look like? It should be clean, mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. The focus should be on short-form vertical videos (9:16 aspect ratio). It needs an introduction, a gallery of work, a list of services or rates and clear contact information. Do I need an UGC portfolio? Yes. While some deals happen in DMs, a portfolio allows you to command higher rates and pitch to professional agencies. It separates hobbyists from professional creators and gives you a dedicated space to control your personal brand.

  • How to make a journalism portfolio that creates headlines

    Ready to showcase your best work? Start building your portfolio → Knowing how to make a journalism portfolio is essential for showcasing your work and unlocking new opportunities. A strong portfolio website brings together your best stories, from investigative features to breaking news and presents them in a way that reflects your skills and professional identity. With portfolio website builders and AI tools, you can create a professional journalism portfolio that organizes your work clearly and effectively. This guide will walk you through how to make a portfolio for journalism that reflects your style and strengths. Start building with Wix's AI portfolio generator. TL;DR: how to make a journalism portfolio A journalism portfolio is a curated website that showcases your best reporting, writing and multimedia work, highlighting your skills, credibility and professional focus. The strongest portfolios focus on a few standout pieces, typically 3–5. These are shaped around a clear direction such as investigative or feature writing. Adding context to each piece shows not just what you have produced but how you work. A simple structure with an about page, a resume and clear contact details keeps your portfolio easy to navigate, mobile-friendly and up to date. Key journalism portfolio features Feature What it is Why it matters Best work selection A curated set of your strongest articles, reports or multimedia projects Highlights your voice, strengths and overall quality without overwhelming the reader Clear focus or direction Work that reflects a consistent theme, beat or journalistic interest Helps communicate your identity as a journalist and makes your portfolio more cohesive Organized work sections Categorizing content into areas like news, features, opinion or multimedia Makes it easy to navigate and allows readers to quickly understand your range Context for each piece Short descriptions explaining the story, your role and the approach Adds depth to your work and shows the thinking behind your reporting Contact information A dedicated section with your email, social links or contact form Ensures editors, collaborators or clients can easily reach you With Wix’s portfolio builder, you can create a professional, eye-catching portfolio in just a few clicks. Customizable templates and intuitive tools make it easy to showcase your work with confidence, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor. How to make a journalism portfolio in 13 steps Building your journalism portfolio might feel like a big project, but trust us, it’s totally doable. Take it one step at a time and before you know it, you’ll have a polished, professional portfolio that’s truly your own. Select your best journalism work Tailor your journalistic work to fit your goals Pick a domain and website host Choose a portfolio builder and template Create a compelling homepage Organize and showcase your work Provide context for each piece Design a strong about page Add your resume or CV Add a contact page with your details Stay active on social media Optimize your portfolio for SEO Keep your journalism portfolio updated 01. Select your best journalism work The first step is pulling together the pieces you’re most proud of, whether that’s published articles, blog posts, videos or even academic essays if you’re starting out. Try to curate a balanced collection that shows off your talent, creativity and range. “Think of your portfolio as a reflection of your adaptability,” says Sharon. Include examples that showcase your storytelling, attention to detail and ability to connect with different audiences. If you’re still building your body of work, don’t stress. Many professionals kick things off with writing samples or mock projects, like crafting a hypothetical news article or a personal essay. “What matters most is the quality and thought behind your work,” Sharon explains. Even unpublished pieces can display your potential and drive, helping you build a portfolio you’re proud to share. As a general rule, aim to include 3–5 of your strongest pieces rather than overwhelming your portfolio with too many samples. This helps keep your work focused and easy to navigate. Get inspired: Portfolio name ideas Portfolio website examples 02. Tailor your journalistic work to fit your goals Once you’ve picked your best work, it’s time to tailor your portfolio to match your career aspirations. Think of it as creating a roadmap for your dream job. Your journalism portfolio should reflect where you’re headed, not just where you’ve been. If investigative journalism is your focus, highlight articles that show your talent for digging deep, uncovering facts and presenting insights with impact. If opinion writing is your goal, lean into pieces that showcase your ability to persuade, entertain and spark conversation. This step keeps your portfolio from feeling too scattered or generic. Instead, it becomes a tool that sends a clear message about your professional direction. And here’s a pro tip for those building a personal website for their portfolio: staying focused can pave the way for monetizing your website in the future. Tailor your selections to match not only your goals but also the tone and focus of any role or publication you’re applying to. Adding short descriptions for each piece can provide valuable context, helping readers understand your creative process and the effort behind your work. Start building your personal brand with a professional touch—use a free logo maker to create a unique identity and learn how to design a logo that stands out. 03. Pick a domain and website host Your domain name is like your calling card. Keep it professional, simple and easy to remember. A classic choice is your name, which feels personal and polished. If your ideal domain is taken, don’t panic you can use a domain name search or a domain name generator to brainstorm variations. A great domain name not only makes you easier to find but also solidifies your professional brand. When it comes to hosting your portfolio, choosing the right type of hosting is key. Start by considering what is website hosting and how it can impact your site’s performance. If you’re on a budget, free website hosting might sound tempting, but using a reliable service with fast loading times, robust website security and minimal downtime will leave a better impression. “A secure, speedy site can build immediate trust with your audience,” Sharon notes. If you’re unsure how to host a website, many platforms offer guided setups to make the process smooth. After all, your portfolio deserves a strong, reliable home online. 04. Choose a portfolio builder and template Designing your portfolio doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when using an intuitive tool. The best website builders for writers, freelancers and creatives provide all the features you need to make a professional, personalized site. Wix, for example, has a wide selection of customizable website templates that are perfect for journalism portfolios. “With pre-designed layouts, you can create something stunning without sweating the technical details,” says Sharon. When picking your template, focus on clean navigation that lets visitors explore your work without confusion. Skip overly flashy designs and prioritize layouts that are simple and polished, keeping attention on your content and achievements. Learning how to make your website mobile friendly is important, too. Many people will view your site on their phones or tablets, so make sure your journalism portfolio works great on all devices. Search engines love mobile-friendly websites, which means better visibility for your portfolio. Explore Wix's free journalism templates: Journalist website templates News and business website templates Photojournalist website template News blog website template Branding portfolio website template Find the best website builder for your portfolio: Best website builders for freelancers Best website builders for creatives Best website builders for consultants 05. Create a compelling homepage Your homepage is the first chance to grab attention, so make it count. Start with a professional photo that reflects your brand, whether it’s a polished headshot or an action shot of you in your element. Pair it with a brief introduction about who you are and what you do. A concise tagline, like “Bringing stories to life through investigative reporting,” adds clarity and makes your site memorable. Keep it clean and inviting. Use high-quality visuals, sleek typography and a simple color palette that aligns with your personal style. “Your homepage should draw visitors in and give them a taste of what’s to come,” notes Sharon. Avoid clutter and leave room for curiosity. Want inspiration? Browse web design portfolios and the best UX portfolios to see what web design is all about and how others elevate their homepages. 06. Organize and showcase your work How you organize your portfolio says a lot about your professionalism. Make it easy to browse by categorizing your work into sections like reportage, features, opinions or multimedia. This kind of structure not only improves website management but also helps visitors quickly find what interests them. Each piece deserves its own space, with bold and descriptive headlines that capture its essence. Instead of “Article 1,” for example, try something like “How Small Businesses Survived the Pandemic.” Sharon suggests, “Clear organization makes your portfolio approachable and impactful.” Include links to published work where possible or share formatted PDFs for unpublished pieces. This is your chance to highlight your skills in research, storytelling and beyond. 07. Provide context for each piece Every piece in your portfolio tells a story, and a little context can make that story shine. Add a short description to each project explaining what it’s about and your role in its creation. For instance, instead of simply listing an article, you could say, “This feature dives into how small businesses adapted during the pandemic. I conducted five interviews, blended narrative with data and met a tight publication deadline.” Sharon notes, “Sharing the story behind your work shows your thought process and skills in action.” If available, include outcomes like reader engagement or awards to further illustrate your impact. Context not only brings your projects to life but also helps potential employers or collaborators see the value you bring to the table. Pro tip: Learning how to create a blog for your portfolio is optional but highly valuable. With the Wix Blog Maker, you have all the tools to create, design and grow your blog from the ground up. 08. Design a strong about page Your about page is where visitors truly connect with you. Keep it concise and personal by sharing your background, passions and what drives your work. Use it to showcase your unique perspective and leave a lasting impression that invites people to learn more about what you bring to the table. 09. Add your resume or CV Including a resume or CV in your journalism portfolio gives editors and potential employers a clear and structured overview of your experience, skills and professional background. It helps them quickly understand your career path and assess your qualifications without needing to search for additional information. You can add your resume as a downloadable PDF or create a dedicated page on your website for easy access. Make sure it is up to date, well-organized and tailored to highlight your most relevant achievements and expertise. 10. Add a contact page with your details Your contact page should be simple, clear and easy to use. Include your email, social media handles and even a contact form for convenience. Sharon says, “An accessible contact page turns interest into opportunity.” Make connecting with you effortless, so opportunities don’t slip away. 11. Stay active on social media Think of your social media as part of your portfolio. Regular posts, thoughtful engagement and curated content help create a journalism portfolio that reflects your voice and work. Sharon shares, “Active social media presence helps you stay top-of-mind and opens doors for collaboration.” Use these platforms to showcase your expertise, build connections and amplify your reach. This also contributes to your social proof, which includes your social media presence, published work, awards and other forms of professional recognition that reinforce your credibility as a journalist. 12. Optimize your portfolio for SEO Boosting your website traffic starts with smart marketing strategies and using the right SEO features. The best website builders for SEO, like Wix, make it simple to enhance your portfolio’s visibility. Add titles, meta descriptions and relevant keywords to help people find you online. Keep track of what’s working with tools like Wix Analytics, so you can fine-tune your approach and attract even more visitors. SEO isn’t just a tool; it’s your ticket to growing your audience and getting noticed. 13. Keep your journalism portfolio updated Your portfolio isn’t a “set it and forget it” situation. It’s a living, evolving project that deserves regular attention. Add new projects, revise outdated work and make sure everything still reflects your goals. Treat it like a website launch checklist and review your content, update visuals and ensure your site looks fresh and relevant. Keeping your portfolio updated doesn’t just impress visitors, it reminds you how far you’ve come and keeps you motivated for what’s next. What is a journalism portfolio? It’s a curated collection of your best work, crafted to spotlight your unique voice and accomplishments as a writer, reporter or editor. It doesn’t just show what you’ve done, it tells the story of who you are as a journalist. Creating a professional portfolio is easier than you might think. Today, most portfolios have moved online, becoming dynamic websites that house everything from published articles to essays and multimedia projects. Many website builders even offer portfolio layouts to help you get started quickly. “Your portfolio website is like your handshake in the journalism world,” says Sharon. “It’s the first impression people get of your style, versatility and professionalism.” But a great portfolio is more than just an online repository of work samples. It’s about combining your creativity with your credentials to create something unforgettable. “The secret to an impactful portfolio is blending your personality with your professionalism,” Sharon adds. “This is what truly leaves your audience wanting to know more.” Why you need a journalism portfolio If you’re serious about journalism, a portfolio is a must. It’s a one-stop-shop for editors, potential employers and collaborators to see exactly what you bring to the table. Here's why a journalism portfolio is non-negotiable: Showcase your work: A portfolio puts your bylines, features and investigative pieces front and center, all in one place. Demonstrate your versatility: It’s a chance to prove you can pivot from hard news to an evocative human-interest story. Editors will notice your range and reliability. Build credibility: Nobody’s going to take your word for it that you’re a great writer. With a portfolio, you’re letting the work speak for itself. "Editors only have one question while hiring," reminds Sharon, "Can you do the job? A solid portfolio gives a big yes." Make networking easier: Share your portfolio link at conferences, in emails or even in casual conversations to strengthen your connections and leave a lasting impression. Keep your progression in sight: Your portfolio isn’t just for others; it’s for you, too. It reflects your growth and helps you honestly assess your career trajectory. Invest in putting together a portfolio that’s polished, current and true to who you are as a journalist. After all, it’s not just about getting hired it’s about celebrating where you’ve been and where you’re heading. Journalism portfolio examples built on Wix To get you inspired, we've rounded up some standout journalism portfolios built on Wix. Whether you're a seasoned journalist or just starting out, these examples will give you plenty to think about for crafting a portfolio that fits your style and story. 01. Karine Hafuta: Multimedia Journalist Karine Hafuta’s portfolio shines with its combination of legal knowledge and journalism expertise. Her bold description of blending these fields to report on law, politics and crime makes her approach truly unique. The site features her resume, reel and writing samples in an organized, professional layout. The key takeaway? Showcase your niche and how your diverse skill sets make your reporting impactful. 02. Ken Aragaki: Journalist Ken Aragaki’s portfolio captivates with visually rich content including videos and images that demonstrate his storytelling abilities. From features on cultural music preservation to Olympic stories, his work spans a wide array of topics with global appeal. The takeaway for readers is clear: use multimedia to highlight the depth and versatility of your storytelling skills. 03. Riley Farrell: Convergence Reporter Riley Farrell’s minimalist portfolio proves that less is more. The site focuses on her writing portfolio and notable interviews, organized in a clear, scrollable format. By keeping the design simple, she directs attention entirely to her work. The lesson here is that an uncluttered approach can allow your journalism to take center stage. 04. Annie Heilbrunn: Sports Journalist Annie Heilbrunn’s ​journalist portfolio serves as an exemplary example of how to present diverse media work, including print articles, videos and a professional resume. The 'About' section effectively highlights her career achievements, such as her five Emmy awards and roles across various media platforms, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of her expertise. Key takeaways include the importance of a well-organized portfolio that showcases a range of work, the value of a personal narrative in establishing professional identity and the effectiveness of incorporating multimedia elements to engage and inform potential employers or collaborators.​ 05. Zana Kennedy: Student Journalist Zana Kennedy’s portfolio stands out with a heartfelt introduction to how she discovered journalism. She ties her passion to her growth as an editor and multimedia journalist, giving her portfolio a personal touch. The takeaway here? Don’t shy away from weaving your personal narrative into your portfolio to connect with readers and editors alike. 06. Masha Undensiva-Brenner: Journalist, Audio Producer & Editor Masha Udensiva-Brenner’s portfolio is straight to the point, showcasing her skills as a multimedia journalist, audio producer and editor. The site’s clean and focused layout makes it easy for visitors to grasp her expertise at a glance. The lesson? Sometimes clarity and brevity are all you need to create a strong impression. 07. Alexnadra Limon: Bilingual News Reporter Alexandra Limon’s portfolio content wasn’t accessible, but as a bilingual news reporter, her site likely exemplifies the importance of reaching diverse audiences. For bilingual journalists, highlighting multilingual abilities and showcasing work in multiple languages can be a strong tool for connecting to broader markets. Learn more: How to start a news website How to make a journalism portfolio FAQ How do I create a portfolio without any journalism experience? Start by creating mock projects or blog entries that showcase your writing skills. You can also volunteer to write for smaller publications or contribute guest posts to blogs. These samples can serve as strong representation until you have published work. Additionally, focus on topics you’re passionate about to make your writing stand out. What should a journalism portfolio include? Your portfolio should include your strongest work—from news articles to features or opinion pieces. Additionally, include sections like an About page, contact details and tailored content that reflects your expertise. Make sure to highlight pieces that demonstrate versatility and an ability to adapt to different writing styles. How to format a journalism portfolio? Your portfolio should be easy to browse and well-organized. Structure it with clearly defined sections or categories, using a design that emphasizes clarity and readability. Consider using a clean online platform or website builder to present your work professionally.

  • What is Wix Harmony? Introducing the next generation of website creation

    Build your website, your way with Wix Harmony → Wix Harmony is a next-generation hybrid website builder that’s transforming the way websites are built. It blends AI-powered creation with precise drag-and-drop control, so you can create the website you want, the way you want. With Wix Harmony, you can launch professional-grade websites faster, bridge skill gaps and move seamlessly between AI guidance and hands-on customization, all while staying in full control of every detail. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to speed up your workflow, Wix Harmony makes it easy to learn how to make a website with professional results. Experience the versatility of a vibe coding website builder in Wix Harmony. Wix Harmony brings AI and manual creation together in a single, smart platform. You can generate full pages, layouts and content with natural language, then fine-tune every detail with precise drag-and-drop control. It’s faster, more flexible website creation, without sacrificing quality or creative freedom. TL;DR: What is Wix Harmony? Wix Harmony is Wix’s hybrid website editor that combines powerful AI with hands-on design control. You get guided help when you want it, plus the freedom to tweak every element until it feels right. It’s made for entrepreneurs, creators and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) building and running their businesses online. “We built Wix Harmony with the understanding that websites are more than just a visual tool; people are building businesses online. It combines professional-grade infrastructure, security and scalability with tools that let you express your style and business vision. Everything from generating custom components to management tools is designed to grow with you and your goals.” - Yarin Singolda, Wix Harmony product marketing manager Key benefits at a glance: Jump between AI and hands-on editing whenever you want to get your web design looking exactly how you pictured it. Launch professional-grade websites with built-in business tools and enterprise-grade infrastructure. Save time and close skill gaps with Wix's Aria, your multi-skilled AI agent. Ensure website reliability, security and scalability for any business need. Feature What it means for you Value Hybrid editor AI prompting, agentic AI and precise drag-and-drop in one interface. Flow seamlessly between AI guidance and hands-on control without switching tools. Multi-skilled AI agent (Aria) A web design and business expert that can execute complex tasks and guide decisions. Build faster, reduce guesswork and move forward with confidence. Responsive templates Designer-made templates that automatically adapt to every screen size. Launch a polished site that looks great on desktop, tablet and mobile. Generative AI tools AI-powered creation for custom components, sections, pages, images and text. Turn ideas into functional website elements in minutes, fully editable. Built-in business solutions Ecommerce, blogs, scheduling and payments integrated into the editor. Run and grow your business without relying on third-party tools. Managed, secure infrastructure Fully managed hosting, multi-cloud reliability and enterprise-grade security. Enjoy peace of mind with fast performance, uptime and protected customer data. Learn more about Wix Harmony: How much does Wix Harmony cost? Why use Wix Harmony? What is Wix Harmony and how does it work? Wix Harmony is a hybrid website editor that blends agentic AI with precise drag-and-drop website control, so you can create faster while staying in charge of every detail. Think of it as an editor that gives you a buffet of tools. You can pick the tools you want to build the exact website you want. Your personal AI agent, Aria, is ready to help whenever you need her. And, with all the infrastructure and security taken care of, you can focus entirely on growing your business. Wix Harmony is built for individuals, entrepreneurs and SMBs who are creating and managing their websites on their own and want pro-level results without needing to be a developer or designer. Jump to the section you want: How Wix Harmony helps you build smarter AI that collaborates with you Precise drag-and-drop Edit text and images effortlessly Launch confidently and scale as you grow 01. How Wix Harmony helps you build smarter Wix Harmony puts you in the driver’s seat while giving expert AI support at every step. Here’s how it works, step by step: Start with an idea: Describe what you want or start with a responsive, designer-made template, then build anything from a one page website to a full eCommerce website. Your personal AI agent, Aria, will generate a site according to your instructions. Generate pages and sections instantly: Need a homepage, sale strip or workshop page? Prompt Aria to create on-brand sections and full pages for you, or create them yourself with Wix Harmony’s drag-and-drop features. You can pick from built-in business functionality like buttons, online forms or eCommerce features. Customize every detail: Adjust your website layouts, spacing, fonts, colors, images and interactions as desired. You can use AI or manual editing tools to create your own custom elements that match your brand. Edit text and images: Prompt AI to generate website copy that matches your voice, or edit it directly. Create images from prompts, remove backgrounds and/or auto-enhance visuals without leaving the editor. Stay organized and consistent: Wix Harmony’s brand kit centralizes your design assets and helps you maintain a cohesive look and tone across your site. Smart suggestions recommend components that fit your established style. Launch with confidence: Your website is automatically responsive across all devices and hosted on fully managed, multi-cloud infrastructure and ready to connect to a domain name. It also comes with enterprise-grade website security, SEO features and website accessibility features built in. Scale as you grow: Add business solutions like eCommerce, blogs, online scheduling and more without breaking your site. Aria is always around to guide you or to offer suggestions and automate tasks, so you can focus on your goals. Take control of your website today with a free AI website builder → 02. AI that collaborates with you At the heart of Wix Harmony is Aria, a multi-skilled Wix AI agent that’s an expert in web design and business strategy. Aria stays in sync with your site and your goals, helping you generate ideas, execute tasks and refine details as you build. Prompt her, ask questions or explore options together. Aria adapts to how you work and helps turn your vision into a live website. Aria is designed to handle complex tasks and batch editing, so you can move fast without losing control. Here’s what Aria can do for you: Generate layouts and sections instantly: From homepages to sale strips or workshop pages, including buttons, forms and eCommerce features. Create custom components: Like countdown timers, graphs or interactive modules tailored to your brand. Produce on-brand copy: For any section or page, matching your tone and messaging. Suggest design assets and features: Keeping your site cohesive and professional. “Aria isn’t just an assistant, she’s a collaborator who can handle complex tasks in one go. You can have her create a new section, add text, pull in best-selling items, insert images and even add linked buttons, all at once. She offers expert guidance and support while executing tasks for you, but the creative choices always stay in your hands.” - Yarin Singolda, Wix Harmony product marketing manager Learn more: What is vibe coding? How to vibe code a website Best vibe coding tools AI prompts for website building 03. Precise drag-and-drop Wix Harmony builds on the same intuitive, drag-and-drop editor Wix users have trusted for years. You can design visually, move elements freely and fine-tune every detail, with AI woven in to help you work faster, not take control away. Adjust layouts, spacing and alignment in real time. Edit fonts, colors, images and interactions without limits. Create custom elements and apply global changes instantly via the brand kit. AI suggestions are available when you want them, but everything remains fully editable. The dynamic, contextual action bar surfaces the right tools based on what you select, so you can move effortlessly between AI-assisted creation and hands-on design. 04. Edit text and images effortlessly Creating and refining content in Wix Harmony feels natural and fast. You can generate website copy and images that match your voice, tweak it manually or ask AI to refine it, all without slowing down your flow. Use AI to generate custom website content or tweak things by hand. Create new images from scratch or edit existing ones with AI tools, including background removal, auto-enhance and image resizer. Access a rich library containing hundreds of free design assets and features Everything happens inside the editor, saving time and keeping your brand cohesive. Use a built-in logo maker to learn how to design a logo and apply it seamlessly across your site, without ever leaving the editor. 05. Launch confidently and scale as you grow Wix Harmony ensures your website works from day one and grows with your business website: Auto-responsive design makes your site look great on any device. Built-in AI tools for business tools let you quickly set up your site for eCommerce, blogs, scheduling and more. Enterprise-grade security, SEO and accessibility features protect and optimize your site. Aria continues to guide you, automating tasks and suggesting improvements. This combination of guidance, flexibility and built-in infrastructure lets you launch professional-grade websites and scale up without technical barriers. Learn more: How to make a business website How to make a portfolio How to design a website What makes Wix Harmony different? Traditionally, creating a website meant choosing between two extremes: Vibe coding platforms: Fast AI-driven creation but unpredictable results, unstable infrastructure, security issues and limited design flexibility. Traditional website builders: Reliable and customizable, but slow and sometimes difficult to use . Wix Harmony bridges this gap, giving you the best of both worlds in a playful, intuitive editor. You can: Start from scratch or use website templates, with speed and guidance from AI. Maintain hands-on control for pixel-perfect customization. Build a great-looking site without worrying about infrastructure, security or scalability. Learn more: Traditional vs AI website builder How does an AI website builder work? Best AI website builders What is the Wix AI website builder? Best prompts to use with AI website builder Who is Wix Harmony for? Wix Harmony is designed for people who want to learn how to create a professional website quickly without sacrificing control or creativity. It’s ideal for anyone looking to launch a website while staying fully in charge of the design and functionality. Wix Harmony is perfect for: Entrepreneurs and startup founders who need a website to grow their business. Freelancers, solopreneurs and personal brands creating a site that reflects their unique style. Small to medium business owners managing their own websites. Side hustlers and passion project creators who want professional results without hiring a developer. If you’ve ever felt limited by traditional editors or frustrated by AI tools that don’t allow customization, Wix Harmony gives you the flexibility to build the exact website you envision. Insights from Wix leadership: Why we built Wix Harmony Building together with AI Wix Harmony and website evolution Why Wix Harmony is a game changer Wix Harmony isn’t just another website editor. It’s a hybrid platform that gives you speed, flexibility and professional results all in one place. Key reasons Wix Harmony changes the game: Hybrid website creation: Seamlessly flow between prompting AI and editing things by hand to create exactly what you envision. Speed + control: Launch a professional-grade website quickly, while keeping precise control over every detail. Enterprise-grade infrastructure: Fully managed, secure and scalable hosting ensures your site is reliable and fast. Built-in business solutions: Ecommerce, scheduling and blogging tools are wired in from the start, giving you limitless ways to grow your business. In short, Wix Harmony is a true hybrid website creation platform, blending the speed and guidance of AI with the precision and creativity of human design. Read more about how AI is changing website creation. Start today to create a blog and learn how to start a blog with ease. Getting started with Wix Harmony Here’s how to get started: Pick a starting point: Choose from hundreds of templates or prompt AI to create a website for you. Generate content with Aria: Describe your vision, and Aria creates pages, sections, copy and custom components tailored to your style. Drag, drop and tweak: Manually adjust layouts, fonts, colors, images and interactions or ask AI for help. Launch and grow: Rest easy knowing that your site is auto-responsive, secure, SEO-ready and ready to expand with features like eCommerce, blogs or scheduling. Ready to put Harmony to work? Try Wix Harmony and experience the easiest way to create a website → What is Wix Harmony? FAQ What is Wix Harmony and how does it work? Wix Harmony is a hybrid website editor that combines AI-powered creation (known as vibe coding) with classic drag-and-drop tools. It helps users quickly build professional websites while maintaining full control over the design, content and layout. Who can use Wix Harmony to build a website? Wix Harmony is designed for entrepreneurs, creators and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) who want professional results without needing coding or design expertise. Can I customize my website completely with Wix Harmony? Yes. Wix Harmony allows full customization, including drag-and-drop layout adjustments, AI-generated content and custom components, making it easy to create a website that’s truly your own. How do I get started with Wix Harmony to build a website? To start, choose a template or ask Aria, your personal AI agent, to create a website for you. Use Aria to generate custom pages and content, or customize designs with drag-and-drop tools. Easily launch a professional website that can keep up with your growing business.

bottom of page