- Rachel Bistricer
- Dec 21, 2025
- 18 min read
Updated: Dec 23, 2025
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→
Your domain name is one of the first decisions that sticks with your website long term. Pick the wrong one and you’re dealing with awkward names, trust issues or costly changes later. With taken domains, confusing prices and too many extensions to choose from, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even start. This guide will help you buy a domain name with clarity and confidence so you don’t regret your choice after launch.
TL;DR: How to buy a domain name
To buy a domain name, start by choosing a trusted registrar and searching for names that fit your brand. You'll learn how to check availability, pick the right extension and explore alternatives or negotiate if your ideal name is taken. The guide also covers verifying ownership, protecting your domain with privacy and security features, managing renewals and understanding pricing, registrar fees and bundled services so you can make a confident, informed choice before creating a 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.
You’ll learn how to:
Choose a domain name that’s memorable, trustworthy and built to last
Find and register a domain through a reliable registrar
Check availability and handle cases where your ideal domain is taken
Pick the right domain extension for your website goals
Understand domain pricing, including registrar fees, promotions and renewal costs
Protect, manage and renew your domain over time
Safely buy an already owned domain and avoid common mistakes
What is a domain name?
A domain name is your website's unique address on the internet, similar to a business's physical address. It's what users type into their browser to find your site. Typically, it has two parts: the name and the extension (or top-level domain, TLD). For example, in the URL "www.example.com", "example" is the name and ".com" is the extension.
Learn more about what is a domain name and how does it work.
How domain ownership works
When you buy a domain name, you’re not purchasing it forever. You’re renting the rights to use it for a set period—usually one to ten years—through a domain registrar. As long as you keep renewing it, the domain stays yours to use.
Behind the scenes, domain registries control each extension like .com or .net while registrars handle the signup and renewal process for you. This setup keeps the system organized and consistent worldwide.
That’s why renewals are so important. If a domain expires and isn’t renewed on time, it can enter a grace period then be released back to the public. Keeping your registration details accurate and your renewal active protects your name long term and avoids costly recovery later.
How to buy a domain name in 7 steps
01. Choose a reliable domain registrar
A domain registrar is a company that manages the registration of domain names on behalf of individuals or businesses. While the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) manages all domains worldwide, a registrar deals with ICANN on your behalf.
When choosing among the best domain registrars, consider these factors:
Domain pricing: Compare the costs of different registrars, including the initial registration fee, renewal rates and any additional charges for services such as domain privacy protection.
Customer support: Opt for a registrar that offers robust customer support, including various means of contact like live chat, email or phone and ensure their availability matches your needs.
Management tools: Look for registrars that provide a comprehensive suite of domain management tools, including easy DNS management, transfer locks and bulk editing capabilities.
Add-ons: Some registrars offer additional services, such as email hosting, SSL certificates and website building tools, which can be convenient if you want to manage everything in one place. Learn more: Does Wix have email for my business?
Transfer policies: Check the registrar’s policy for transferring your domain to another registrar. Ensure it’s straightforward and doesn’t come with excessive costs or delays.
Security features: Choose a registrar that provides website security features like two-factor authentication, domain locking and professional monitoring to protect your domain from unauthorized transfers or attacks. Learn more about how you can secure a domain name.
Registration period: Determine how long you can register your domain name for. Some may provide discounts for longer registration periods, while others might automatically renew your domain annually.
For a premium domain name, you might want to consider using a domain broker. However most businesses will be able to seamlessly choose and register a domain name with a domain registrar like Wix.
Learn more:
02. Brainstorm your domain name
According to Cary Byrd, the Founder of CinchLocal:
Run the "mom test"—if you tell your domain to someone's mom over a noisy phone connection, can she spell it correctly and remember it an hour later? If not, keep looking. Your domain will be spoken aloud more often than you think.
Your domain name is a huge part of your brand. It should be memorable, reflect what you do and connect with your audience.
Consider these tips when choosing a domain name:
Make it relevant: Your domain name should reflect your brand and what you do. Avoid using vague or misleading names that may confuse visitors.
Keep it short and simple: A shorter name is easier to remember, type and share. It also reduces the risk of spelling errors.
Include keywords: Consider incorporating relevant keywords in your domain name to improve search engine optimization (SEO).
Avoid numbers and hyphens: These can make a domain name harder to remember, appear spammy and increase the chances of typos.
Use a domain name generator: If you're struggling to come up with ideas, this tool can spark creativity based on your inputted keywords and preferences, helping you find a name that fits your brand and is available for registration. You can learn more about how to check if a domain name is available with our guide.
Domain extensions
There is a vast array of domain extensions available, each serving different purposes and audiences. Choosing the right domain extension can enhance credibility and relevance, making it easier for users to identify the nature of your website at a glance.
Here are most common types of domains available:
Generic top-level domain (gTLD): These are the most common and include extensions such as .org, .com and .net as well as .co and .info. They can be used for virtually any website.
Country code top-level domain (ccTLD): These are specific to a country or geographical region, such as .nl for the Netherlands and .ca for Canada.
Sponsored top-level domain (sTLD): Designed for specific entities. For example, .edu for educational institutions and .gov for government organizations.
New top-level domain (ngTLD): These are more specific gTLDs that cater to various industries or interests, such as .biz for businesses and .photography for photographers.
One extension growing in popularity is .ai, originally the country code for Anguilla, but widely adopted by companies and startups in the artificial intelligence space. If you're building a tech-forward brand or targeting a developer or investor audience, .ai can signal innovation and expertise.
For more in-depth examples, check out the most popular domain extensions and learn more about what a TLD is.
03. Check domain name availability
Once you've narrowed down a few potential domain names, it's time to check their availability. You'll want to ensure the name you choose is not already registered by another individual or business.
Looking to understand how to find a domain name owner? Check out our guide.
Use a domain name search tool where you can enter your desired domain name and see if it’s available. If your desired name is unavailable, the tool will come up with additional ideas.
Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup.
04. Purchase and register your domain name
Once you've confirmed the availability of your desired domain name, it's time to purchase and register it through your chosen registrar. The process usually involves creating an account, entering your contact and payment information and choosing a registration period.
Be sure to double-check all the details before finalizing the purchase. Once completed, you'll officially own the rights to your new domain name.
Here’s how to register a domain name with Wix:
Visit the domain registrar.
Enter your desired domain name and click Search.
If the name is available, click Get It to continue. If not, explore additional suggestions or enter a different option in the search bar. Once you find a suitable domain name, click Get It.
Choose whether to register for one, two or three years. Longer registration periods save you more money annually. After making your selection, click Continue and proceed to checkout.
Connect the domain name to your site and share it with your intended audience, whether it's friends, family or a specific online community.
Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM 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 online presence.”
05. Verify ownership of your domain
After registering your domain, it’s important to verify that you are the rightful owner. This step helps officially link your new domain to your account and ensures no one else can claim or access it. Most domain registrars require this verification as part of the process, and acting quickly will help you avoid delays in activating your domain.
Why this step matters: Verifying ownership not only secures your domain but also complies with regulations, such as those outlined by ICANN (the organization that oversees domain registrations). Without verification, your domain might become inactive or remain unlinked to your account.
How to verify ownership:
Check the email address associated with your registrar account. Look for an email with a verification link.
Click the link and follow any instructions provided. This might involve logging into your account or confirming specific details.
Complete the verification within the required timeframe. Many registrars allow a grace period, but if the verification isn’t completed on time, your registration may be suspended.
Wix makes domain transfer easy, with free SSL, reliable hosting, privacy options and 24/7 support.
06. Protect your domain name
Once you've registered your domain, it's crucial to protect it from potential threats. Your registrar may offer additional services, such as domain locking and professional monitoring, to ensure your domain is secure. It's also essential to regularly review and update your contact information to avoid losing ownership of your domain due to expired or incorrect details.
Recent updates from ICANN, the organization that oversees domain registrations, make this step even more important. As of August 2025, new rules standardize how registrars manage registration data to improve accuracy and privacy. One key change affects who legally owns a domain: if a business name appears in the “Organization” field during registration, that business—not the individual who registered it—is recognized as the owner. Reviewing your details ensures your domain stays under the right name and prevents future disputes.
Consider implementing the following measures:
Enable domain privacy protection: This feature keeps your personal information hidden from the WHOIS public databases, reducing the risk of identity theft and unsolicited emails..
Keep contact information up-to-date: Ensure your registrar has your current email address on file so they can reach out regarding any issues or important updates.
Turn on auto-renewal to prevent your domain from expiring and being released to someone else.
07. Manage and renew your domain
Once your domain is set up, maintaining it is just as important as registering it. Proper domain management ensures your website stays secure, active and easy for your audience to find. Staying on top of renewals also prevents the risk of losing your domain due to expiration.
Tips for managing your domain:
Enable auto-renewal before domain expiration: Enable auto-renewal to avoid accidentally letting your domain registration expire. Losing ownership of a domain can be costly to retrieve and damage your online presence. Learn more about domain lifecycles.
Set reminders: If you prefer to handle renewals manually, create a reminder to renew your domain well before the expiration date. Missing this step could result in extra fees or, worse, losing the domain altogether.
Review your domain's settings: Spend some time reviewing your domain’s settings to check for any unnecessary add-ons or security upgrades that you might need to enable. Keeping everything organized and current will allow you to focus on your website instead of worrying about the technical details.
It's common to ask can I buy a domain name permanently? We explain why that isn't an option and how to use a domain long term.
Step | What to do |
|---|---|
Choose a reliable domain registrar | Start with a trusted provider like Wix that offers security, transparency and easy setup |
Brainstorm your domain name | Think about keywords, your brand identity and names that are short and memorable |
Check domain name availability | Use a domain search tool to see what’s available and explore similar options |
Purchase and register your domain name | Buy your domain through your registrar and register it under your name or business |
Verify ownership of your domain | Confirm your domain is officially registered and associated with your contact details |
Protect your domain | Add privacy protection and consider locking the domain to prevent unauthorized changes |
Manage and renew your domain | Set up auto-renewal and keep your info current to avoid losing your domain |
How much does a domain name cost?
While you can get a free domain, buying one might be a better choice. Free domains include the registrar's prefix, making them suitable for temporary sites or initial online presence. However, to make your website stand out professionally and grow with your brand, invest in a domain name.
The cost of a domain varies depending on a few factors:
Standard domains: An unregistered .com, .net or .org typically costs between $10–$20 per year. Promotional first-year rates can be lower, but always check the renewal price, as it may increase in later years.
Premium domains: Short, brandable names are in high demand and can sell for hundreds, thousands or even millions of dollars.
Free domains: Some website builders or hosting platforms include a free domain for the first year when you purchase a plan.
Understanding domain pricing
Domain prices vary based on the type and popularity of the extension:
Generic top-level domains (gTLDs): These include .com, .org, .net and similar. Popular names, especially short or brandable .coms, tend to be more expensive due to high demand. Less common gTLDs like .info or .co are usually cheaper.
Industry-specific or new gTLDs (ngTLDs): Extensions like .tech, .photography or .shop might have a higher price tag than standard gTLDs but they do a great job of making your brand clear and memorable.
Country code domains (ccTLDs): Domains tied to a country like .uk, .ca or .de vary in price based on local rules, demand and registration requirements. Some are highly affordable while others come with a premium price tag.
Premium domains: These domains have high commercial value because they’re short, memorable or keyword-rich. They can sell for hundreds, thousands or even millions regardless of the extension.
Promotions and first-year deals
Many registrars will hook you with a sweet first-year deal. It’s tempting to grab a domain for just a few bucks but be sure to check the renewal price. It can sometimes be a lot higher than the initial cost. Before you commit make sure you know the full price so you can budget for the long run and avoid any surprises when your renewal comes up.
Registrar fees
Registrars don’t all charge the same amount. Some add markups to the base price or include extra fees for services like WHOIS privacy or DNS management. It's good to understand how your registrar sets prices so you can avoid hidden fees and pick a provider that’s transparent and fair.
Domain services included with Wix
When you buy a domain through Wix your domain is automatically connected to Wix name servers. You get to choose private registration to keep your contact info hidden and add DNSSEC for extra security against cyberattacks. You can also manage everything like renewals and privacy settings right from your account plus create custom business email addresses.
The price of a Wix domain depends on a few things:
The extension you choose (for example, .org or .net domains vs .info)
Your local currency
The number of years you register for
If you add privacy protection
Your local tax or VAT laws
To give you an idea of what to expect you can read more about how much a domain name costs in detail. The good news is that selected yearly or multi-year Premium or Studio paid plans come with a domain voucher for the first year. This adds extra value and makes getting started even easier.
Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix:
“Domain pricing isn’t just about finding the lowest number, it’s about understanding the value behind it. With Wix, your domain comes with instant reliability, easy management and smooth integration with your site. That means you’re not only paying for a name, you’re investing in a stress-free experience that helps your brand look polished and professional from the start.”
Learn why some business owners are wiling to pay $100+ a year for a premium domain.
How to buy a domain name that is already owned
There may be instances where you want to purchase a domain name that is already registered by someone else. In such cases, you can try reaching out to the current owner and negotiating a price for them to transfer ownership of the domain to you.
It's important to note that purchasing a registered domain may be more expensive than registering a new one. However, it can be worth it if the domain name aligns with your brand and has established traffic or revenue potential. It's also essential to ensure all legal aspects of the transaction are covered to avoid any disputes in the future.
Here are the steps to complete a purchase.
01. Discover the current use of the domain
Before reaching out to the current owner, it's essential to understand how they are using your desired domain. This can give you an idea of its value and potential for your own website. You can check this by entering the domain name into a browser and seeing what appears.
If the domain is connected to an active website, the owner might not want to sell it. The best chance to secure a web address is when it points to a placeholder site on a parked domain. Domain flipping is common, with resellers often buying parked domains to resell them for profit. These sellers are generally easier to negotiate with as they're not attached to the domain.
02. Determine a fair price
Before making an offer, research the domain's market value to avoid overpaying. Consider the following factors:
Domain history: Older domains are usually more valuable as they have higher credibility and may rank better on search engines.
Relevance and popularity: Short, specific and memorable names tend to be worth more than longer or obscure ones.
Traffic and revenue potential: If a website is generating significant traffic or profit, it will likely have a higher price tag.
03. Contact the domain owner
You can find the contact information of a domain owner through the WHOIS database, which contains public records of registered domain names. The owner may also have provided their contact details on their website or social media profiles. Once you have the contact information, reach out with a polite and professional email expressing your interest in purchasing the domain. Another option is to use a domain broker to facilitate the purchase on your behalf.
04. Complete the sale using escrow services
To ensure a safe and secure transaction, consider using an escrow service to facilitate the sale. This service verifies your payment and ensures the seller transfers the domain before releasing funds, protecting both the buyer and seller from potential scams or issues.
05. Complete the transfer of ownership
Once the purchase is complete, the current owner will initiate a process called domain transfer. This involves releasing the domain from their account and providing you with authorization codes or access credentials. Once you have these details, you can proceed with registering the domain through your chosen registrar to officially own and manage your new web address.
Important tips for buying a domain name
When it comes to securing the perfect domain name for your website, a few smart choices can make all the difference. Here are some key factors to keep in mind before hitting "buy":
Pick the right domain extension: You’re probably familiar with ".com" domains—they’re popular for a reason. But depending on your website’s purpose, extensions like ".net" or ".org" might fit just as well. If you’re feeling creative, newer extensions can also help define your brand in a unique way.
Protect your privacy: Some registrars offer WHOIS privacy protection, which can keep your personal contact details out of the public database. It’s a small investment that adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Keep it short and memorable: A shorter domain name is easier for people to type, remember and share. Avoid complicated words or long strings of text—they’ll only cause headaches for your visitors.
Use relevant keywords: If it makes sense, consider including keywords that reflect your business or site’s focus. Not only can it help with search engines, but it also gives visitors an idea of what to expect before they even click.
Learn more: What is domain authority
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.
More on how to manage your domain
How to buy a domain name FAQ
What do I do once I have bought my domain name?
Once you have successfully purchased your domain name, you will need to connect it to a hosting website. This involves setting up DNS records and pointing your domain to the correct web server. Your chosen registrar should provide instructions on how to do this or you can seek help from a web developer or technical support team. Learn more: Web host vs domain registrar.
How soon can I use a domain name?
After purchasing a domain name, it may take up to 48 hours for it to become active and accessible to the public. This is due to the time it takes for DNS changes to propagate globally.
Can I change my domain name after purchasing?
In most cases, once a domain is registered and purchased, it cannot be changed. You would need to purchase a new domain and redirect domain traffic from the old one if you wish to change your website's address.
Is there a limit on how many domains I can buy?
There is no specific limit on how many domains an individual or business can own. However, excessive purchases of multiple domains may result in additional fees and maintenance costs. It's recommended to only purchase the domains you need for your brand or business.
Does the country I live in affect my domain name?
Yes, the country you live in can affect your domain name as some country-specific extensions may only be available to individuals or businesses located within that country. For example, .mx is only available for residents and companies in Mexico. It's essential to research which extensions are available in your country before purchasing a domain. Additionally, some countries have specific regulations or restrictions on certain domain names, so it's important to familiarize yourself with these laws before making a purchase. You can also use this information to tailor your domain name to reach your target audience effectively.
Can I buy a domain name without hosting?
Yes, you can buy a domain name without hosting. However, your website will not be accessible to the public until it is connected to a hosting service or website builder. It's recommended to have both a domain name and hosting in order to have a fully functional website. You can purchase hosting through your chosen registrar or choose a separate hosting provider.
How can I buy a domain name permanently?
In general, domain names are purchased for a set period of time and will need to be renewed before the domain expiration date. However, some registrars offer the option to purchase a domain name for a longer duration, such as 10 years.
When should I buy a domain name?
It's best to purchase a domain name as soon as you have decided on your brand or business name. This ensures that the domain is available and prevents someone else from purchasing it before you do. Additionally, buying a domain early allows you to start building your online presence and establishing your brand.
Can I transfer my domain name?
Yes, you can transfer your domain name to a different registrar at any time. This may be necessary if you change hosting providers or want to manage all your domains under one account. The process for transferring a domain varies between registrars and typically involves obtaining an authorization code from the current registrar and initiating the transfer with the new one. It's important to note that some registrars may charge a fee for transferring your domain.
Can I buy a domain name from a web host?
Yes, many web hosting services also offer domain registration services. This can be convenient if you are purchasing both a domain name and hosting for your website. However, it's important to research the prices and features offered by different registrars before making a decision to ensure you get the best deal for your needs. Additionally, consider how easy it is to transfer your domain if you decide to switch hosting providers in the future.
How do I buy a domain name for business emails?
To get started with how to create a business email, the first step is purchasing a domain name that aligns with your brand. Choose a reliable domain registrar, search for your desired domain and complete the registration. Once you have your domain, you can set up professional email addresses like info@yourbusiness.com or sales@yourbusiness.com. This is also a great time to explore unique email name ideas that represent your team roles or company values, helping to create a cohesive and professional identity.