- Abi Djanogly
- Dec 30, 2025
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 7
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →
Before you settle on a business name or start making a website, there’s one quick check you can’t skip. Domain names get snapped up fast and finding out yours is already in use can derail your plans. Checking domain availability early saves time, avoids frustration and helps you secure a name you can actually use.
You can check if a domain name is available by using a domain name search, which tells you if the name you want is already taken. If it is, these tools can also suggest alternatives to get your site online.
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: how to check if a domain name is available
Checking domain name availability early saves you from delays, rebranding and legal issues later. A quick check helps you lock in the right domain, explore alternatives if needed, and move forward with confidence instead of hitting roadblocks mid-build.
You’ll learn:
Why domain availability should be checked before building a website
How to check if a domain name is available
What to do if your first-choice domain is taken
How domain extensions affect your options
When it makes sense to contact a current domain owner
How domain registration and ownership work
How to secure and register a domain using a website builder
Ready to find your perfect domain? Use the Wix domain name generator to get started to instantly generate creative and relevant name ideas.
Why checking if a domain name is available is important
When you start building a website, your domain name is one of the first choices that can either keep things moving or cause delays. Spending a few minutes checking domain options and availability early helps you avoid backtracking after you’ve settled on a name.
Checking domain name availability early helps you avoid future headaches and ensures you can secure a name that truly represents your brand.
If the domain you want is already taken, you may need to rethink your branding, choose an alternative extension or negotiate with a current owner—steps that can slow down your launch.
Confirming domain availability also protects you from potential legal issues. Many domain names are tied to trademarks or established businesses, so unintentionally choosing a conflicting name could result in disputes or forced rebranding later on.
Learn more:
How to check if a domain name is available
Finding and registering a domain name is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step to help you navigate the process, from searching for a domain name to making it your own:
01. Brainstorm domain name ideas
Before you even start checking for availability, you need some solid ideas. A good domain name is memorable, easy to spell and reflects your brand.
Think about your business name and the services you offer. Try to keep it short and avoid hyphens or numbers, which can be hard for people to remember and type. It's a good idea to come up with a list of 5-10 potential names. This gives you plenty of options in case your top choices are already registered.
"There are three WIN Pillars for choosing a great domain name. 1) Words: Keep it short and easy to spell, 2) Identity: Make sure it’s relevant to your business and 3) Name: Ensure it’s unique and distinguishable. Avoid numbers and hyphens as they can complicate the domain." - Keren Friedlander, Product Manager at Wix
Find out more: How to choose a domain name
02. Use a domain name checker
Once you have your list, it's time to see what's available. The easiest way to do this is with a domain name checker. Most website builders and domain registrars offer this tool for free.
Simply type your desired name into the search bar and the tool will instantly tell you if it's available. For example, using the Wix domain name checker will not only confirm availability but also suggest alternative names and TLDs if your first pick is taken. It’s a quick and efficient way to move from idea to action.
03. Choose a top-level domain (TLD)
A TLD is the extension at the end of your domain name, like .com, .net or .org. While .com is the most popular and often the most sought-after, there are hundreds of popular domain extension options available.
Learn more: most popular domain extensions.
Consider using a TLD that fits your business. For instance, a non-profit might choose .org, while a tech startup could go for .io. Country-specific TLDs like .ca (Canada) or .co.uk (United Kingdom) can also be effective if your audience is local. Your choice of TLD can influence how visitors perceive your site, so choose one that aligns with your brand.
Choose from one of the top-level domain extensions →
04. Consider alternatives if your name is taken
It’s common for your first-choice domain name to be unavailable, especially if it's a common word or phrase. Don't get discouraged. This is where your brainstormed list comes in handy.
Try slight variations of your name. You could add a keyword that describes your business (e.g., "atlascoffee.com" instead of "atlas.com"), use a different TLD or add a verb like "get" or "try." Many domain checkers will automatically provide these suggestions, making it easier to find a suitable alternative that’s still on-brand.
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05. Register your new domain name
Once you've found an available name that you love, the final step is to register it. You can do this through a domain registrar or directly through a comprehensive website builder like Wix, which simplifies the process by letting you manage your site and domain in one place.
Registration typically involves selecting a subscription term (usually one year or more) and providing your contact information. Once you complete the registration, the domain name is yours. Congratulations—you now have a digital address for your brand.
Find out more: How to register a domain name
Who owns a domain name?
When you register a domain name, you don't technically "own" it forever. You lease it for a specific period, usually on a yearly basis. This lease gives you the exclusive right to use that domain as long as you keep up with the renewal payments.
The official owner of a domain is the person or entity listed as the "registrant" in the domain's registration records. This information is stored in a public database called WHOIS. So, while you're the effective owner, it's a right-to-use arrangement that requires ongoing maintenance.
How to find out who owns a domain name
If a domain name you want is taken, you can find out who owns it using a WHOIS lookup service. Tools like the WHOIS domain lookup search allow you to enter a domain name and retrieve public registration data.
The information you'll find typically includes the name of the registrant, their contact information (unless they have privacy protection), the registration date and the expiration date. This can be useful if you want to contact the owner to negotiate a purchase. However, be aware that many owners use privacy services to hide their personal details.
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How to check if a domain name is available with Wix
Checking whether your ideal domain name is available is an essential first step when building your website—and with Wix, the process is quick and effortless.
Ready to claim your corner of the internet? Start by learning how to build a website with Wix and get a free custom domain for your first year with a premium plan.
Wix provides instant domain name search, letting you see availability in real time so you can secure the perfect match without delay. Simply type your desired name into the search bar and Wix offers easy domain name search tools that instantly surface relevant suggestions, alternative extensions and creative variations.
Because Wix powers real-time domain name search, it’s simple to find the right fit fast. You can explore options, compare extensions and lock down a memorable domain name within seconds. This ensures you spend less time searching and more time building your brand online.
How to check if a domain name is available FAQ
What do I do if the .com version of my domain is taken?
How much does a domain name cost?
The cost of a domain name varies depending on the TLD and the registrar. Standard TLDs like .com or .net typically cost between $10 and $20 per year. Some website building platforms, like Wix, offer a free custom domain for the first year with the purchase of a premium plan, which can be a cost-effective option.
Find out more: Does Wix offer free domains?
Can I buy a domain name permanently?
No, you can't buy a domain name permanently. Domain registration works like a lease. You can register a domain for a set period, typically from one to ten years. To keep it, you must renew the registration before it expires. This system ensures that unused domain names can eventually become available again.
Learn more: Can I buy a domain name permanently?
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