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Your name idea deserves a home. Secure your domain now → In the fast-paced world of eCommerce , your business name is your first impression, your brand's vibe and a big part of standing out from the crowd. Picking the perfect name is a big deal if you’re starting a business  or building an ecommerce site . Why does it matter? Your business name is often the first thing people notice when they check out your products or services. A great name can highlight what your brand is all about, make it feel more relatable, stick in people’s minds and help you make money online . Naming your eCommerce business just got a whole lot easier. The Wix Business Name Generator gives you custom, on-brand ideas fast—along with the tools to bring your idea to life. eCommerce business name ideas to brainstorm Discover a curated selection of eCommerce business names designed to inspire you. Whether you're in need of a professional, unique, or distinctive name, these suggestions can assist you in finding the perfect fit for starting your eCommerce venture . Unique eCommerce business name ideas Catchy eCommerce business name ideas Funny eCommerce business name ideas Professional eCommerce business name ideas Inspirational eCommerce business name ideas Location-based eCommerce business name ideas Timeless eCommerce business name ideas Clever eCommerce business name ideas Modern eCommerce business name ideas Classic eCommerce business name ideas Minimalist eCommerce business name ideas Unique eCommerce business names ShopFusion ClickCart Connect TrendTrove ByteBoutique QuikCyber Mall PixelPulse Emporium SkylineShopper ZenCartopia GigaGoods Galore VirtuVend Ventures EcomGrove ShopNest Quest WebWhimsy World NovaNet Niche QuantumQuik Shop Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain  before someone else does. Catchy eCommerce business names ShopSizzle ClickCharm SwiftCart TrendEra Emporium BuzzBuy Boutique FlashFusion Finds SparkleCart ChicCraze Creations PopCart Pulse GlimmerGroove SnapShop Selections TrendyTraverse BlissCart Bazaar GlamourGaze Goods VogueVenture Create your online store without inventory or upfront risk. Start dropshipping now   → Funny eCommerce business names ClickKaleidoscope ShipShop BlinkBasket WinkWares GrinGroceries SnapSack ZipZapZone SpinSplurge WhizWonders QuirkQuick ZingZest JoltJunction BoingBuy TickTrove WhirlWheel Professional eCommerce business names EliteCommerce Solutions ProVenture Marketplace PremierWeb Retail EminentEshop Hub AscendCart Ventures PinnacleOnline Emporium SuperiorSelect Store PrimeWeb Merchants OptiMarket Empowerment LuxeCommerce Network SummitShop Central NobleWeb Retailers PrestigeCart Exchange ApexOnline Emporium ExecutiveeCommerce Mall Inspirational eCommerce business names InspireCart Creations RiseAbove Retail DreamPulse Emporium VisionaryVista Ventures AchieveAllMart SuccessSail Store EmpowerEshop Hub ThriveTrove Exchange ElevationEmporium DriveDream Marketplace SparkSpirit Shop AspireFusion Finds PeakPower Products UnleashUtopia Mall EvolveeCommerce World Location-based eCommerce business names [City] Cart Creations [State] Shopper's Hub [Region] Retail Emporium CoastalConnections [City] Explore [State] Store [City] Marketplace Masters [Region] Finds & More [Country] Treasures Online [State] Savings Central [City] Corner Shop [Region] eCommerce Emporium [Country] Cart Collectibles [State] Style Selections [City] Elegance Emporium [Region] Wonders Online Starting a business in Washington ? Take a look at these creative name ideas: Evergreen Wonderland Wares Cascade Mountain Treasures Puget Sound Delights Depot Space Needle Souvenirs Showcase Rainforest Retreat Finds Timeless eCommerce business names Trademark Treasures ClassicCommerce Co. Timeless Trends Marketplace Vintage Value Ventures Eternal Elegance Emporium Heritage Haven Hub Everlasting Essentials Shop Perennial Picks Online Enduring eCommerce Exchange Time-Tested Tidbits Ageless Allure Finds Relic Retailers Network Iconic Items Emporium Endless Charm Collectibles Timepiece Treasures Store Clever eCommerce business names ShopIQ ClickWit Creations ByteBrilliance Boutique PunnyCart Emporium EurekaEshop SmartyPants Shopping BrainyBuys Central ThinkTank Treasures WitWhimsy World SavvySpree Store CraftyCart Collectibles CogniCommerce Co. SharpShopper's Showcase WittyWares Depot IdeaFusion Finds Modern eCommerce business names TechTrendy Mall DigitEase Emporium EcomWave Creations CyberCart Central InnovateShop Solutions WebWorld Wonders ModernMarketplace Hub ByteBoutique Network FutureFinds Store UrbanClick Co. EcomTech Innovations DigitalDwellings Depot InstaShop Pro NeoNet Retailers iCommerce Connect Subscribe to the Wix blog  for a weekly dose of business tips and industry trends. Classic eCommerce business names Heritage Elegance Emporium Timeless Traditions Treasures Royal Retailers Online Vintage Vogue Ventures ClassicCart Creations LegacyLuxury Mall Prestige Picks Shop Noble Niche Network Opulent Options Co. Traditional Treasures Depot GracefulGoods Gallery Regal Finds Showcase ElegantEmporium Central GrandMarketplace Hub Time-Honored Tidbits Store Minimalist eCommerce business names PureCart ZenMarket SimpleGoods CleanClicks ChicCommerce BasicBoutique ModCart NeatNiche Streamlined Store EffortlessEmporium SleekSelects UnclutteredGoods SubtleShop MinimalMall ClarityCart Get started with  making a website  using Wix, or follow our guide on  how to build a website . eCommerce business real name examples Pelch Pelch Music captures the heart and soul of Canadian singer-songwriter Pelch. From breakout hits to new EPs and an upcoming album, fans can explore his journey, check tour dates, watch music videos and grab exclusive merch. This musician has included a store as part of building his eCommerce website . The name "Pelch" reflects his intimate, authentic style—distinctive, memorable and full of individuality. Galactic Soccer Kits Galactic Soccer Kits brings you the best in new and classic soccer jerseys, handpicked for fans who love the game’s history and passion. From iconic kits worn by legendary players to vintage treasures and rare releases, every piece tells a story. The name Galactic Soccer Kits captures the magic and global love for soccer, reminding us why it’s the beautiful game. Batmoon Batmoon shop is where bold meets edgy, offering unique fashion staples like oversized hoodies and compression wear, all crafted with a dark gothic twist. The name says it all—mysterious, rebellious and inspired by the night. Famous eCommerce business names Many of the largest eCommerce brands in the world are known for their super simple, yet impactful names. These include: Amazon: cleverly involves the size, scale and fame of the world's largest rainforest eBay : this famous eCommerce platform was originally intended to be named Echo Bay before its founder discovered that name was already taken Etsy : this now super famous name was specifically chosen because it's nonsensical, the founder wanted to create a brand from scratch and so it was important the name had no context or other meaning Learn more: Online store names How to choose the right eCommerce business name Deciding how to name your business is a crucial step in establishing your online store, as well as your brand identity and attracting customers. Follow these six steps to come up with the perfect business name for your online store: Define your brand identity Brainstorm topics and names Narrow down and refine Check domain availability Test and feedback Perform a legal check 01. Define your brand identity Begin by thoroughly understanding your eCommerce business, its mission, values and the products or services you offer. Identify your target audience and what sets you apart from competitors within your niche. This clarity will guide your naming process. 02. Brainstorm topics and names Make a list of relevant keywords, phrases and concepts associated with your eCommerce business. Consider your product categories, unique selling points and any industry-specific terminology. In order to have as many names as possible to choose from, use a business name generator or a list of store names to combine keywords and concepts in order to get access to options that you might not have thought of. 03. Narrow down and refine Review the list of generated names and select the ones that resonate the most with your brand's identity and target audience. Keep in mind that your business name should be easy to spell, pronounce and remember. Eliminate any options that are too long or complicated. 04. Check domain availability In the eCommerce world, having a matching domain name is crucial. Verify the availability of domain names for the business name ideas you've shortlisted with a domain name search . It's important to have a consistent online presence, so choose a name for which the corresponding domain name is available when making a website. Make sure to check social media channels as well to ensure you can secure the relevant handles. Expert tip from Karen Friedlander , Product Marketing Manager at Wix, “There are three WIN Pillars for choosing a great domain name: Words - Keep it short and easy to spell. Identity - Make sure it’s relevant to your business. Name - Ensure it’s unique and distinguishable. Avoid numbers and hyphens as they can complicate the domain”. 05. Test and feedback Share the top name choices with friends, family and potential customers to gather feedback. Make sure the name is easy to pronounce, spell and remember. Feedback can help you refine your options and choose the most suitable name. 06. Perform a legal check Ensure that the business name you choose is not already trademarked or in use by another business, especially in your industry. Conduct a trademark search to avoid legal issues down the road and then register your business name to protect it and make it official. Learn more: Ecommerce tools , eCommerce website builder Benefits of choosing a great eCommerce business name A great eCommerce business name is key to your success. It shapes how customers see your brand and helps build visibility, trust and loyalty. Here's why choosing the right name matters: Boosts brand recognition : A memorable name makes it easy for customers to remember you and come back. Builds trust : A name that reflects your values and professionalism reassures customers about your store's reliability. Improves searchability : A clear, relevant name enhances SEO, helping potential customers find you online. Strengthens marketing : Consistent, effective branding amplifies your ads, social media and email campaigns. Sets you apart : A unique name highlights what makes your business special, standing out in a crowded market. Attracts your audience : A name that hints at your products or services aligns with your customers’ needs. Fosters loyalty : Over time, a strong name becomes linked to quality and satisfaction, encouraging repeat customers. Grows with your business : A smart name adapts seamlessly as your eCommerce store expands. Looking for a business name for another business idea? Trucking business names Consulting business names Real estate business names Food truck business names Marketing business names Construction business name ideas Photography business names Craft business name ideas Found your perfect business name?  Claim your domain with Wix in minutes, set up a custom website and business email and enjoy secure hosting, full privacy and 24/7 support—all in one place. eCommerce business name ideas FAQ Why is choosing the right eCommerce business name so important? Your online shop name is the first impression customers have of your brand. It can influence their perception of your business, make your brand more memorable and impact your overall success. A well-chosen name can help establish trust and attract customers. How do I choose a good online name? Choose a name that’s short, easy to remember, and reflects your personality or niche. Make sure it’s unique by checking domain availability and social media handles to keep things consistent across platforms. Bonus tip: avoid hard-to-spell words so people can find you easily. Should my business name reflect my eCommerce niche? While it's not mandatory, having a business name that reflects your product or niche can be beneficial. It helps customers understand what you offer at a glance. However, creative and unique names can also work well if they align with your brand's identity and messaging. What are some key things to consider when coming up with an eCommerce business name? A memorable business name is typically short, easy to spell and easy to pronounce. It should convey a sense of your brand's identity, values, or unique selling points. Avoid using complicated or obscure words, as clarity and simplicity often make for a more memorable name. How do I know if my business name is legally available? Search the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to see if the name is already registered. Check your state’s business name registry too to avoid conflicts with local companies. Can I trademark my eCommerce business name? If your name is unique and not too generic or descriptive, you can apply for a trademark through the USPTO. This gives your brand legal protection and stops others in your industry from using a similar name. Should my eCommerce business name and domain be the same? Ideally, yes. Matching your business name to your domain makes your website easier for customers to find and remember. It strengthens brand consistency essentially. If an exact match isn't available, try adding a relevant keyword (like "shop" or "store") or a location to keep it intuitive.

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → Learning how to write a blog post is one of the best ways to share your ideas and expertise. I remember starting out feeling excited and unsure, wondering if anyone would read what I wrote. I quickly learned that strong blog posts need more than inspiration. With the right tools, like a reliable website builder , and a clear plan, it becomes much easier to turn ideas into engaging content. If you’re learning how to start a blog that connects with readers, you’re in the right place. For this guide, I spoke with Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix and an expert in creating blog posts that perform. She shared practical advice on what makes a blog post effective. This step-by-step guide will show you how to write a blog post with confidence, from choosing a topic to publishing. Learn more: How to start a blog Starting a blog should feel exciting and effortless. With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch. Explore how you can use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world. TL;DR: How to write a blog post Starting a blog is a bold move—and a smart one. It gives you a platform to share your voice, build credibility and grow your brand. This guide walks you through every step of writing a strong blog post, from developing your idea to hitting “publish.” Along the way, you’ll get expert tips from Wix’s own SEO blog editor to help you write content that truly connects and performs. Whether you're writing your first post or refining your process, this is your blueprint for creating blog content with confidence. Feature of a great blog post Why it matters Strong purpose and idea Keeps your content focused and aligned with what your readers care about Engaging headline Grabs attention and encourages clicks Organized structure Guides readers through your message in a way that’s easy to follow Valuable, original insights Builds authority and keeps your audience coming back Optimized for SEO Increases visibility and drives consistent traffic to your site Learn how to open a website . What is a blog post? What is a blog?  A blog post is like a conversation starter between you and your audience. It’s your chance to share ideas, tell stories or offer helpful tips that spark curiosity and build connections. Whether you’re writing about travel adventures, business know-how or that amazing mac and cheese recipe, every blog post works as a piece of your bigger story. When I first started blogging, I thought a blog post was just words on a page. But over time (and with some trial and error), I learned that it’s so much more. It’s about crafting something that resonates with your readers and keeps them coming back for more.  Sharon Hafuta, the SEO blog editor I mentioned earlier, explained it perfectly when she said, “A blog post isn’t just an article; it’s an entryway into your world, wrapped in value, inspiration and authenticity.” That perspective changed everything for me. A good blog post doesn’t have to be long or overly complicated. It should feel approachable, deliver value and have that personal touch that shows readers there’s a real person behind it. Trust me, once you get the hang of shaping your thoughts into a blog post, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. This is where your blogging adventure takes off, one post at a time. Dive into our guide on blogging for beginners  to start creating content that resonates today.  Ready to get blogging? Get started with Wix  today. How to write a blog post in 13 steps Writing a great blog post can feel overwhelming at first, but breaking it into smaller steps makes it totally doable. Thankfully, Sharon has outlined her go-to process that simplifies the whole thing. Here’s how you can create a blog post that feels impactful and reader friendly: Brainstorm blog topics Refine your topic with keyword research Define your audience Create an outline Write engaging content Craft a headline that gets clicks Choose a blog template Select a blog domain name Use images to level up your post Implement calls-to-action Optimize for SEO Edit and polish Hit publish and share your work 01. Brainstorm blog topics When writing a blog post, whether you're  guest posting  for someone else or writing for your own blog, you’ll want to cover topics that bring value to your readers and fall in line with their interests, as well as your own. Start by jotting down topics that excite you or align with your goals. “Think about the questions your audience might be asking or blog niche ideas ,” says Sharon. For example, if you’re writing a food blog, take note of seasonal recipes or cooking techniques people are searching for. This step is all about unleashing your creativity without judgment. The more ideas, the better. There are several places you can look to spark new topic ideas: Browse other blogs within your niche with competitor analysis . If you’re starting a food blog , for example, simply Google “food blog” to see what your competitors are writing about. Use AI,  like an AI website builder  or AI writing tools , at your disposal to generate topic ideas. Use Google Trends to find out which topics are trending. Look for current events and recent news stories related to your field. Find out what people enjoy learning about by browsing online courses on Udemy , Skillshare and LinkedIn Learning . Once you find some interesting ideas online, think about the unique ways you can approach those topics. Consider the various ways you can play around with topic ideas to come up with something that isn’t only trendy and relevant, but that’s also original and fresh. You'll also need to consider making sure your blog post is up to date and this will mean including relevant data and statistics related to the topic. Let’s say, for instance, that you want to write about chocolate chip cookies. There are a few different angles you might consider taking here based on your target audience and potential for website traffic : A how-to post that instructs readers how to do something with clearly ordered steps (e.g., “How to Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies from Scratch”). A curated list that offers a set of recommendations for your readers (e.g., “The Top Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes”). A tips and advice post that provides expert guidance and resources. (e.g., “Tips for Making Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Extra Gooey”). A definition-based blog post that helps explain the meaning of a term or topic (e.g., “What Are No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies?”). A top trends article that highlights what’s currently popular (e.g., “The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes From This Year”). A personal or business update that lets you unveil something fresh or recently unknown (e.g., “My New Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Revealed”). Sharon also recommends keeping a running list of potential blog topics in a place you can easily access, like a notebook or a digital note app. “When inspiration strikes, capture it!” she emphasizes. This habit will come in handy when you’re ready to write your next post and need a spark to get started. Get brainstorming with these best  blog ideas . 02. Refine your topic with keyword research Part of writing a blog post involves keyword research. This crucial SEO practice is used as a marker to see which terms you can potentially rank high for in certain online searches. Once you’ve chosen a direction for your blog post, and before you get started with the writing process, you’ll need to figure out the chances of its success on search engine result pages—which ultimately means getting more eyes on your content. In order to succeed, conduct keyword research to find the most relevant queries for your topic. You can find keywords for your own articles by using various keyword research tools. If you’re new to blogging, you’ll probably want to start with free tools such as Ubersuggest and Google Keyword Planner . Afterwards, you may want to upgrade to more advanced tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs . While conducting keyword research, keep in mind that the more specific the phrase, the more closely it will match your audience’s intent. On the other hand, broader keywords tend to have higher search volumes—meaning more people are searching for them each month. Think about the benefits of opting for a broader phrase, like “chocolate chip cookies,” over a more precise phrase, like “how to make chocolate chip cookies.” Choosing the right keywords means striking a balance between high search volume and high intent. Once you’ve selected your keywords, you can use them to shape the structure of your content. Google those phrases to find out which articles have successfully targeted those same keywords, and spend some time browsing their content. This will give you inspiration for your own article in terms of what to include and how to structure it. Don't forget to also tap into your own experience as an entrepreneur or writer, when choosing what to write about. “Keyword research sets the foundation for your blog post,” says Sharon. “It’s like a treasure map that leads you to what your audience is searching for. The more intentional you are with this step, the better your chance of connecting with readers and driving meaningful engagement.” 03. Define your audience Now that you know what you’ll be writing about , you need to find out who you’re writing for . Anticipating the kinds of people who will be reading your posts will help you create content that is interesting, engaging, full of relevance and shareable. “Tailoring your content to a specific group makes it more personal and engaging,” Sharon advises. She adds, “Think about their challenges or goals and how your blog post can offer value.” Once you know who you’re talking to, you’ll naturally know the tone, examples and even the right format to use. Of course, your audience largely depends on your type of blog . If you run a baking blog, your website content  will probably be geared towards an audience of people who love baking and are seeking recipe inspiration. Even more specifically, if you run a healthy baking blog, you’ll be writing for people who similarly love baking but who want to make their culinary creations healthier. It’s important to keep these nuances in mind when crafting your content, since your goal is to write articles that resonate strongly with readers. So, how do you figure out your audience in the first place? Start by taking another look at the other blogs in your field. Consider who they seem to be writing for, and the kinds of assumptions they’re making about their readers’ interests and lifestyles. For example, you might find that most of the blogs address a particular gender or age group. Pro tip: Create a reader persona to really hone in on your audience. Think about their age, lifestyle, challenges and goals. Are they busy parents looking for quick recipes? Or maybe they’re health-conscious professionals experimenting in the kitchen. The more specific you get, the easier it is to write content that feels like you’re speaking directly to them. You can also use online forums to find the main questions asked by your audience, or visit Facebook groups to read what topics they like or talk about. This will help you create content that piques their interest, sparks their curiosity and answers their questions. Whether you're  starting a health blog , a fashion blog , travel blog  or something else—defining your audience should come first. 04. Create an organized outline Think of an outline as the backbone of your blog format . It helps you organize your thoughts and ensures a structured flow that’s easy for readers to follow. Break your post into clear sections like an introduction, main points and conclusion. Pro tip: Jot down bullet points under each section to focus your ideas before you start writing. It saves time and keeps you from veering off track. Having a roadmap not only makes writing easier but also results in a more polished post. If it’s a step-by-step guide or a list of tips, start building your outline by listing out all the main points clearly, as in the example below: Outline: How to Bake Chocolate Chip Cookies from Scratch 1. Gather your ingredients 2. Mix and knead the dough 3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper 4. Scoop mounds of dough onto baking sheet 5. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit Add bulleted notes within your introduction and under each of your subheadings. This will help you formulate your main points. If you find yourself getting stuck, use one of these blog post templates to guide you through the outline process. Dive into our guide on blogging for beginners  to start creating content that resonates today.  05. Write engaging content Turning something you love and know a lot about into blog posts is a great strategy to attract readers: they’ll come for the knowledge, but they’ll stay for your authentic outlook and first-hand experiences. Be yourself,” Sharon encourages. “Authenticity is what turns a good post into a great one.” Now that you’ve outlined your blog post, you can start writing (or, use AI to write your blog posts ). Keep in mind that blog posts, like many other types of writing, typically include three main elements: an introduction, the body text and a conclusion. So, how long should a blog post be?  "Well, it’s not about the exact word count," Sharon says. "The key is creating content that holds your readers’ attention. Start with a strong opening sentence to hook them, and then keep them engaged by weaving in stories, relatable examples or even a bit of humor." She adds, "Don’t stress about sounding perfect. Your readers want your authentic voice, not something robotic. The more genuine you are, the more your readers will connect with you, and the polish will follow naturally." Pro tip:  Keep your paragraphs short, and use headings or bullet points to break up the content. This not only makes it easier to read but also keeps your audience coming back for more. Let’s break down the elements of a great blog post: Start with the introduction. In the first few sentences of your article, you should already grab your readers’ attention. Begin with a relevant quote or statistic, tell a short story or share an interesting fact. Then, set the tone for the article by sharing a brief summary of what you’re going to talk about in the body text. This gives your readers a reason to keep going. Next, fill in the body text. In your outline, these are the bullet points below each subheading. This is the meat of your blog post, so it should be clear and compelling. Avoid fluff and repetition, and instead offer deep value by sharing your knowledge, research and insights. A concluding section isn’t always necessary—in fact, our blog rarely uses one—but it can be useful in the case of storytelling or when wrapping up a very extensive article. You can tie your main points together using a short bulleted list, or by sharing some closing thoughts in a few sentences. No matter the case, you’ll want to end on an engaging note. At this stage you'll also want to consider your writing style, this is usually determined by your blog audience. If you're targeting a professional business crowd, you might want to consider adopting a more formal writing style. If your target audience is home bakers, something more light and fun might be the best style. Within this consider your tone too, blogs, even formal business ones, are meant to open up communication and inspire conversation. Make sure your tone is relevant to your writing style and audience, but also use welcoming and inspiring language where possible. Sharon suggests these important concepts to consider in your content creation process: Viscosity : Essentially the ease with which a reader can understand and flow through a piece of text. It is akin to the "fluidity" of the writing and how smoothly the ideas and information are conveyed to the reader. High viscosity in writing implies that the text is dense, complicated and difficult to read, while low viscosity indicates that the writing is clear, concise and easy to comprehend. Rhythm: The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables, sentence structures and the flow of words that create a musical or harmonious quality in the text. It's the cadence and beat that give the writing a sense of movement and can make the language more engaging and memorable. Creativity : The ability to express oneself imaginatively and inventively through the written word. It involves using one's unique perspective, original ideas, emotion, pathos and artistic flair to craft compelling stories, poems, essays or any form of written content. Creative writing allows writers to explore their thoughts, emotions and observations in an innovative and expressive manner. Storytelling is a huge part of writing a blog post and shouldn't be neglected. Sentence and clause structure: Fundamental elements of grammar that govern how sentences are constructed in the English language. They determine the arrangement of words (verbs, adjectives), phrases and clauses to convey meaning and ensure clarity in communication. Understanding sentence and clause structure is crucial for effective writing and communication. Learn more: Microblogging Blogosphere What is blog cadence?  06. Craft a headline that gets clicks Your headline is the first impression of your blog post, so make it compelling. Sharon explains, “A strong headline should be specific, pique curiosity and set the right expectations for your content.” For example, instead of “Healthy Snacks,” try “10 Quick and Healthy Snacks You Can Make in Under 5 Minutes.” If you’re unsure about your headline, write a few versions and choose the one that feels the most dynamic. A little effort here goes a long way in drawing in readers. The best blog titles  often balance creativity with clarity, helping readers know exactly what they’ll gain by clicking. Writing a good headline also depends on how well you put yourself in the shoes of your audience. Use the title to promise readers that your blog post will provide valuable insight that will benefit them in some way, whether by satisfying their intellectual curiosity, teaching them something new or helping them solve a problem. This will increase the chances that they’ll click on your article and read it. Just don't go overboard and remember to avoid clickbait, which is writing a hyperbole headline just to get clicks through to an article. Here are some examples of headlines that we are quite proud of, to give you a general idea for your own content: Create a Powerful Free Landing Page in Under an Hour 20 Best Time Management Apps to Organize Your Life How to Design an A+ School Website (With Examples) Make a Change: Using Photography as a Tool to Raise Awareness If you're looking for inspiration to get started, try out this blog post title generator . 07. Choose a blog template The design of your blog is just as important as the content itself. “Your blog’s template should be clean and easy to navigate,” Shar on emphasizes. Whether you’re highlighting gorgeous photography or crafting detailed guides, your blog design  should support—not distract from—your message. Sharon also suggests using a website builder that offers customizable and free blog website templates . “Pick something that fits your style but keeps user experience in mind,” she says. A seamless design can make your content shine. If you’re wondering how much does it cost to start a blog?  Good news, many of the best blogging platforms (like Wix) offer free or low-cost solutions to get you started. Many of these platforms come with a large selection of the  best blog templates  that are professionally designed, allowing you to effortlessly bring your vision to life. For inspiration, check out these  blog examples  to see how others have transformed these templates into beautiful, content-rich powerhouses. 08. Select a blog domain name Your  domain name  is your blog’s address on the web, so choose something memorable and reflective of your brand or topic. “Keep it short and simple,” Sharon advises. “Names that are easy to spell and pronounce stick with readers.” When it comes to  naming your blog , you can gather ideas from a  blog name generator  and see if the domain name is available. Spend time thinking about how your blog and domain name fit in with the blog post topics you will cover. Make sure that your name reflects your blog’s persona, topic and niche. Pro tip: It’s also a good idea to check if your domain name matches your branding, including your blog logo . Consistency across your blog name, design and logo makes your brand unforgettable. If you're working on a tight budget, look for services that include free website hosting when you purchase a domain name. Many platforms bundle hosting and domain registration together at an affordable price, saving you from juggling multiple providers. Stuck on  how to choose a domain name ? Use a domain name search  tool to see if the exact name you want is available, and if not, try a domain name generator to find the perfect blog domain name.  Learn more: What is a domain? How to register a domain How much does a domain name cost? 09. Use images to level up your post Visuals bring your blog post to life and make it more engaging. Sharon emphasizes that “the right images can help illustrate your points and keep readers scrolling.” Use high-quality photos, graphs or even custom artwork to enhance what you’ve written. Don’t just add visuals for the sake of it, though. Choose ones that feel meaningful and connected to the content. Tools like stock image websites or creating your own graphics can be game-changers in this department. With Wix, you can add a professional photo gallery to individual posts and embed your own pictures within your articles. You can also choose from an array of media content from Wix, Shutterstock and Unsplash directly within your site’s editor. 10. Implement calls-to-action In the same way a blog is meant to inform people about specific topics, it can also be used as an important tool that motivates readers to take a certain action. This includes everything from subscribing to your blog to making a purchase. This element is referred to as CTA, or call-to-action, and is presented as an embedded link or button that states your objective in an alluring manner. Some of the most common call-to-action examples for blogs include “Subscribe,” “Download our e-book” or “Sign up.” Using CTAs can help you transform your website traffic into engagement and, eventually, profit. While your immediate goal is to get more readers, you may eventually want to monetize your blog further down the road. 11. Optimize for SEO Here’s where strategy comes into play. When it comes to SEO for bloggers , a strong blog SEO plan involves optimizing your content both before and after writing the blog post. Not only does this include doing keyword research prior to the outline phase, but it also includes using those keywords to polish your final piece. Optimizing your post for search engines helps it reach a wider audience. Sharon suggests starting with simple steps like incorporating your chosen keywords naturally into the content, headings and meta descriptions. “ Website SEO doesn’t have to be complicated,” she reminds us. “Think of it as making your content easy to find.” This begins with sprinkling relevant keywords throughout your article. Let’s say you’ve chosen to target the keyword “business strategies.” Use this exact phrase in your headline, throughout the body text and one to two subheadings if it’s a natural fit. You’ll also want to add the keywords to the URL of your article, as well as in the alt text of your blog post’s images. Use these SEO features to give your blog an overall performance boost. 12. Edit and polish With so many common blogging mistakes out there, you’ll need to thoroughly check your article for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, repetition and any other unprofessional content. Take the time to edit your post for clarity and accuracy. Proofreading might feel tedious, but it makes a world of difference. Sharon recommends stepping away from your draft for a bit before reviewing it again with fresh eyes. “You’ll spot things you missed the first time around,” she says. Furthermore, make sure your ideas flow coherently throughout each section, signaling a clear and purposeful message to readers. You can read about other essential aspects of blogging in this comprehensive blog post checklist . We recommend even asking a friend or colleague to give your blog article a glance before it goes live. Direct them to look for any discrepancies or ambiguity. It’s also important to emphasize quality over quantity in order to keep your readers interested and to establish your credibility. Then, once you’re happy with your written work, it’s time to hit publish. Pro tip:   Reading your post out loud is another great editing trick. It helps you catch awkward phrasing and ensures your tone sounds natural. 13. Hit publish and share your work This is the moment you’ve been working toward. Once your post is live, don’t forget to share it. “Promotion is key to growing your audience,” Sharon says. “Don’t be shy about telling people what you’ve created.” Every piece of content you share adds to your blogging experience and confidence. Celebrate this step, and get ready to create your  content calendar .  Two of the most effective ways to promote your blog post and get readers are email marketing and social media marketing. Email remains one of the most reliable platforms for marketing, as it allows for a direct communication channel between you and your audience. This highly effective digital marketing strategy involves sending out customized emails to prospective users with the aim of converting them into loyal fans. If you’re interested in getting started, this powerful email marketing service can help you send custom newsletters for your blog. Beyond emails, sharing your article on social media can also go a long way. For example, if you want to accrue a wide audience, promote your blog on Facebook or Instagram, which have one of the largest and most diverse user bases. Whichever channels you choose, make sure to actively engage with followers on a day-to-day basis. This will ensure that you not only write a great blog post, but that you get people reading your article, too. Learn more: Increasing blog traffic Social media marketing Newsletter examples Looking to really get your blog off the ground? Take a look at our Build Your Own Blog online course to get you started. How to structure a blog post checklist Crafting a blog post is part art, part strategy. With this checklist, you’ll have all the tools to create a post that connects with readers and keeps them coming back for more. Here's how we break down blogs here at Wix: Headline: Make it crisp, catchy and totally relevant. Your headline is your blog’s first impression, so don’t shy away from adding keywords to boost SEO while staying clear and compelling. Introduction: This is your chance to hook your readers. Sharon says, “Answer their search intent by outlining your blog’s purpose and spotlighting its main idea right away. Set the tone early, and they’ll stick with you.” Subheadings: Think of these as signposts guiding your readers through your blog. Arrange your content with easy-to-read sections and use subheadings that follow a logical flow. Body: Here’s where you deliver the goods. Writing in a conversational tone, share valuable information backed by examples, stats or credible evidence.  Visuals: A blog post isn’t all words and no color. Add images, infographics or videos that complement your content. Sharon notes, “Well-chosen visuals keep your readers scrolling and learning.” Engagement: Invite your audience to interact. Whether it’s comments, shares or answering a question you pose, interaction keeps the conversation alive. Editing: Before anything goes live, it has to go through a thorough check. “Don’t skip this step,” Sharon advises. Fix grammar, smooth out the style and double-check facts. SEO: Sprinkle relevant keywords naturally throughout the post and make sure you’re still answering what your readers are searching for. It’s a balance between smart optimization and authentic writing. Readability: Stick to clean, consistent formatting with short sentences that are easy on the eyes. Links: A good post shares the love. Include internal links to guide readers to your other posts and external links to boost credibility and expand on your topic. Social sharing: Make it easy for readers to spread the word. Add social sharing buttons and craft shareable snippets of content they'll want to repost. Review: Read through your post once before hitting publish, and again after it’s live to catch anything you may have missed. Using AI tools for blogging AI features are totally changing the game for bloggers, taking some of the weight off your shoulders and speeding up the content creation process. From brainstorming topics to pulling research and creating outlines, these features can save you hours when you’re just getting started.  But here’s the deal, blogging is about so much more than getting it done quickly. Readers don’t just come to you for answers; they’re here for your personality, humor, and insights. Sharon points out, “Your audience con nects with your voice, not a robot’s. AI is amazing for tweaks and suggestions, but only you can bring that human touch to the table.” Think of AI as your trusty sidekick. Sure, it can help polish your text, offer SEO tips or tweak your structure—but the main role? That’s all you. Your stories, perspective, and wit are what keep people coming back. Sharon says, “Blend the efficiency of AI with your unique style, and you’ve got magic.” When you use these tools wisely, they complement your creativity rather than replace it. The result? Posts that are well-researched, optimized and still totally, authentically you. Isn’t that the perfect balance? Get started with the Wix AI website creator . Firsthand insights from a construction business founder with a blog Gita Jacobson, founder of In the Deets , used her website to share her expertise. She created a blog offering tips for anyone considering a renovation and used SEO features to drive traffic to her site. She believes that too many construction sites are stuffed with irrelevant, space-filling text. Every word on the In the Deets website has purpose, whether that’s outlining the company’s construction process or sharing the human story behind the business. Gita also emphasizes that a blog should grow over time. “I'm always looking for ideas and inspiration as I browse the web,” she says. “A website should be an ever-evolving content machine. It's not a one-and-done thing.” For her, creating a blog post isn’t just about writing. It’s about combining clear, helpful content, compelling visuals and regular updates to keep readers engaged. Why trust Wix’s experts? This article was created by Wix’s in-house blogging experts, with years of experience helping people build and grow successful blogs. The tips, templates and examples shared here come directly from real Wix projects, so you can be confident they’ll help you create a blog that looks professional, functions smoothly and supports your long-term goals. At Wix, we’ve guided millions of bloggers, entrepreneurs and creators in sharing their ideas online. Our team keeps up with the latest in content strategy, SEO and design, making sure the advice you get is both practical and backed by proven results. Think of this blog as your trusted resource for every stage of blogging, from publishing your very first post to building a thriving, long-term blog. How to write a blog post FAQ How to write my first blog post? Writing your first blog post can be an exciting but daunting task. To make it easier follow these basic steps - choose a compelling topic, plan out your post, hook readers with a killer introduction, provide meaningful content, hone your conversational style and include visuals where you can. What are 5 easy steps to writing a blog post? 1. Choose a topic. 2. Outline your post. 3. Write your introduction. 4. Expand on each of your points. 5. Summarize and conclude. How to write a blog post with AI? AI can be a valuable asset throughout the content production process, from generating topic ideas to serving as a proofreader. AI tools like ChatGPT and Bard can help brainstorm blog topics, provide research insights, construct outlines and even write drafts. However, it's crucial to review and refine AI-generated content to ensure accuracy, relevance and adherence to your brand voice. Additionally, grammar checkers like Grammarly and ProWritingAid can assist in proofreading, but their suggestions should be considered carefully to avoid altering creative writing styles. How to write a blog post as a beginner? Start with a compelling headline to grab attention. Introduce your topic in the opening paragraph, addressing the reader's pain point or curiosity. Organize your thoughts into clear sections with subheadings. Use concise, engaging language. Include visuals for impact. Conclude with a strong call-to-action or thought-provoking ending. Edit for clarity and brevity. What is a blog post example? A blog post is a piece of content published on a blog that typically provides information, insights, opinions or entertainment on a particular topic. An example of a blog post could be a "How-to Guide" on cooking a specific recipe, a "Listicle" highlighting the top 10 travel destinations or a "Product Review" discussing the pros and cons of a new gadget. What is the format of blog writing? The format of blog writing typically includes the following components: Title Introduction Body Subheadings Images or multimedia Conclusion Author bio What are some tools that can help with writer's block when planning blog posts? There are a number of AI-powered tools that can help with this. You can choose an AI blog assistant, like the one within the Wix editor; or use a tool like ChatGPT for inspiration. You can also use SEO research tools, like Ahrefs to come up with new ideas, or look through community forums and discussions in your niche for new blog post ideas. How do I make sure my blog post resonates with my audience? To make your blog post resonate with your audience, research their interests and pain points. Then format and organize it, so its to easy to read with clear headings and visuals. Using a conversational tone will help.

Ready to showcase your best work? Start building your portfolio →  To help you build a high-impact portfolio website , we've put together these stunning marketing portfolio examples, including a guide on how to make a website . These examples effectively show off marketing skills, from content strategy and social media management to branding and data analysis. To give you the best portfolio website inspiration , we've gathered a mix of creative, professional and minimalist designs along with the portfolio website templates  used. You’ll see how top marketers present their work, tell their stories and attract clients. Explore all of Wix's free website templates → 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: marketing portfolio examples This post breaks down how to make a portfolio  with stunning examples built with Wix. You'll find examples that are creative, professional, modern and minimal, along with their website templates  and key features that make them stand out.  Feature Why it matters Striking visuals Captures attention quickly and leaves a strong impression. Easy navigation Makes it simple to browse projects and find details. Unique personality Shows your distinct style and creative identity. Strong case studies Demonstrates your process, skills and the results you deliver. Strong branding Builds trust and makes your portfolio memorable. Clear CTAs Encourages visitors to get in touch or explore more. Mobile-friendly design Ensures your portfolio looks great on all devices. Detailed project pages Helps visitors understand your process and skills. Social links Makes it easy for clients to connect with you. Contact options Makes reaching out straightforward and inviting. What is a marketing portfolio? A marketing portfolio is a curated collection of your best work. It shows your skills, experience and achievements in the marketing field. It serves as both a visual online resume  and a powerful tool that demonstrates your abilities. In fact, 48% of freelancers with portfolios report  finding clients through their  portfolio websites , making it a lot more than just a nice to have.   "Portfolios are ideal for professionals, individuals or businesses who want to showcase their work in a visually engaging manner to attract clients or enhance their online presence." - Hani Safe, product lead at Wix. See more: How to make a UGC portfolio How to make a copywriting portfolio How to make a PR portfolio Marketing portfolio examples Ready for some inspiration? Here are some marketing portfolio examples that nail it. Each one has a unique way of presenting work and personality. Tim Butler Tim Sommerfeld Kyle McMahan Morse Code PR TJ Rudy Ali Bartlett Brandon Dexter Uinification Jason Farrell Paul Cam Demour Breen Goldy Productions K Kloss Lauren Price Seth Mollerup Tommy Burns Mark Zhu Horse Copywriter Taralyn Wallace Shawn Yaney Michele Pew Christian Carrillo 01. Tim Butler Tim Butler 's portfolio uses a clean, modern design with a strong visual hierarchy. This makes it easy for visitors to see his skills and experience at a glance. Key feature: His software proficiency is displayed with clear percentage bars. This gives a quick, visual summary of his technical abilities. Why it works: The portfolio layout  is scannable and professional. It immediately establishes his expertise and directs users to his resume and work samples. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: UX designer website template 02. Tim Sommerfeld Tim Sommerfeld’s  portfolio is a great example of a visually-driven site. It uses a grid of high-quality images to create an engaging and artistic feel. Key feature: A full-bleed image gallery fills the screen. This immersive experience puts the focus entirely on his photography skill. Why it works: The minimalist design lets the images speak for themselves. This is perfect for a photographer or visual marketer whose work is their strongest asset. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Graphic designer website template 03. Kyle McMahan Kyle McMahan’s  portfolio is clean and project-focused. It uses a simple grid layout to present case studies in a clear, organized manner. Key feature: Each project is a clickable card with a representative image. This makes the portfolio easy to navigate and visually appealing. Why it works: The design is straightforward and user-friendly. It allows potential clients to quickly browse through his work and dive into the projects that interest them most. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Graphic designer website template 04. Morse Code PR Morse Code PR’s  website is a masterclass in professional branding. It communicates the agency's mission and expertise with concise, powerful text. Key feature: The tagline "connecting the dots to advance clients' business objectives" is clear and compelling. It perfectly summarizes their value proposition. Why it works: The design is clean, sophisticated and all about the message. It establishes credibility and positions the agency as a strategic partner. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Strip header website template 05. TJ Rudy TJ Rudy's  portfolio is simple, clean and direct. It’s a one-page site that gets straight to the point, showing his work and how to get in touch. Key feature: The minimalist layout with plenty of white space makes the content easy to digest. It feels calm and organized. Why it works: This portfolio is efficient and no-fuss. It’s perfect for a professional who wants to let their work do the talking without any distractions. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Fashion blog website template 06. Ali Bartlett Ali Bartlett's  portfolio is bright, colorful and full of personality. The playful design and friendly tone make it feel welcoming and creative. Key feature: Fun illustrations and a vibrant color palette give the site a unique and memorable look. It feels fresh and modern. Why it works: The portfolio reflects Ali’s creative energy. It’s a great example of how to inject personality into a professional portfolio . Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name : Art director website template 07. Brandon Dexter Brandon Dexter’s portfolio is sleek and professional. It uses a dark theme and clean typography to create a sophisticated look. Key feature: The case studies are presented with a clear structure, detailing the challenge, solution and results. This shows his strategic thinking. Why it works: The portfolio effectively demonstrates his expertise through well-documented projects. It builds trust and shows his value. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Photographer website template 08. Uinification Uinification 's portfolio gives off a futuristic and techy vibe. It uses animation and interactive elements to create an engaging user experience. Key feature: Animated graphics and a dynamic layout make the site feel alive and modern. It’s a great way to show off digital marketing skills. Why it works: The interactive design captures attention and keeps visitors engaged. It positions the agency as innovative and forward-thinking. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Creative agency website template 09. Jason Farrell Jason Farrell’s  portfolio is a great example of personal branding. His photo is front and center, creating an immediate connection with the visitor. Key feature: The "About Me" section is prominent and well-written. It tells his story and explains his marketing philosophy. Why it works: The portfolio feels personal and authentic. It builds trust by showing the person behind the work. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Vintage car garage website template 10.  Taylor Engle Anderson This portfolio website from Taylor Engle Anderson  is a strong example of a writer-led personal brand. The homepage clearly introduces who she is and what she does, setting a confident and professional tone from the start. Key feature: The site is organized into focused sections, including work samples, client testimonials, PR offerings and a blog with insights on writing and marketing. Why it works: The portfolio feels clear and credible. It builds trust by combining real client results with thoughtful content that reflects her approach to brand storytelling and public relations. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Coming soon landing page website template 11. Demour Breen Demour Breen's  portfolio is clean, organized and easy to navigate. It uses a simple layout to present her work in a professional manner. Key feature: The portfolio is divided into clear sections like "Writing," "Social Media," and "Strategy." This makes it easy for visitors to find what they're looking for. Why it works: The clear structure highlights her diverse skill set. It’s a practical and effective way to showcase her expertise. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Filmmaker website template 12. Goldy Productions Goldy Productions’  portfolio has a fun and retro feel. It uses a nostalgic design to stand out and create a memorable brand. Key feature: The vintage-inspired graphics and color scheme give the site a unique personality. It’s playful and creative. Why it works: The distinctive design makes the brand instantly recognizable. It’s a great way to attract clients looking for a creative and unconventional approach. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Videographer website template 13. Kristine Kloss Kristine Kloss'  portfolio is minimalist and elegant. It uses a simple color palette and clean typography to create a sophisticated look. Key feature: The use of ample white space gives the design a breathable and uncluttered feel. It puts the focus on the content. Why it works: The minimalist design is timeless and professional. It conveys a sense of confidence and refinement. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Graphic designer website template 14. Lauren Price Lauren Price's  portfolio is warm and inviting. The friendly tone and personal photos make it feel approachable and authentic. Key feature: Testimonials from happy clients are prominently displayed. This builds social proof and credibility. Why it works: The portfolio focuses on building trust and relationships. It’s a great strategy for a freelance marketer. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Start from scratch website template 15. Seth Mollerup Seth Mollerup's  portfolio is a great example of a clean, one-page design. It’s easy to scroll through and get a quick overview of his work. Wix simplifies your portfolio website  setup, so you can focus on showing your talent. Key feature: The long-scrolling format tells a cohesive story. It guides visitors through his experience, projects and skills in a logical flow. Why it works: The one-page design is simple and effective. It provides all the necessary information without overwhelming the visitor. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name:   Minimal layout website template 16. Tommy Burns Tommy Burns’  portfolio is all about results. He uses data and metrics to show the impact of his work. Key feature: Case studies feature specific numbers and KPIs, like "increased engagement by 300%." This provides concrete proof of his success. Why it works: The data-driven approach is powerful and persuasive. It demonstrates his value in a clear and measurable way. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name:   Classic layout website template 17. Mark Zhu Mark Zhu's  portfolio is modern and interactive. It uses animation and hover effects to create a dynamic user experience. Key feature: The interactive elements make the site fun to explore. It keeps visitors engaged and encourages them to learn more. Why it works: The dynamic design shows his technical skills and creativity. It’s a great way to stand out in the digital marketing space. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Marketing agency website template 18. Brett La Frombois, Horse Copywriter Brett La Frombois’  portfolio has a unique and memorable brand. The "Horse Copywriter" name and a consistent Western theme make it stand out. Key feature: The strong, consistent branding creates a distinct identity. It's quirky and unforgettable. Why it works: The niche branding attracts a specific type of client. It’s a bold choice that pays off by creating a strong connection with the right audience. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Start from scratch website template 19. Taralyn Wallace Taralyn Wallace’s  portfolio is professional and polished. It clearly outlines her services and expertise. Key feature: The "Services" section is detailed and well-organized. It explains exactly what she offers and how she can help clients. Why it works: The clear service offerings make it easy for potential clients to understand her value. It positions her as a capable and reliable professional. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Creative CV website template 20. Shawn Yaney Shawn Yaney’s portfolio combines design and marketing. It shows his ability to create visually appealing and effective campaigns. Key feature: The portfolio features a mix of graphic design, web design and marketing projects. This shows his versatility. Why it works: The blend of skills makes him a valuable asset. It shows he can handle both the creative and strategic sides of marketing. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Start from scratch website template 21. Michele Pew Michele Pew's  portfolio is clean and content-focused. It uses a blog-style format to share her writing and marketing insights. Key feature: The portfolio doubles as a blog. This allows her to continuously add fresh content and demonstrate her expertise. Why it works: The content-driven approach establishes her as a thought leader. It attracts visitors through valuable information and keeps them coming back. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Art gallery website template 22. Christian Carrillo Christian Carrillo’s  portfolio is bold and energetic. The vibrant colors and dynamic layout create a sense of movement and excitement. Key feature: The use of bright, contrasting colors makes the design pop. It’s eye-catching and full of energy. Why it works: The energetic design reflects a passion for marketing. It’s a great way to convey enthusiasm and creativity. Like what you see? Create your own marketing portfolio with this same template. Template name: Graphic designer website template How to create a marketing portfolio Knowing how to create a marketing portfolio  is more straightforward than you might think. Start by gathering your best work and thinking about the story you want to tell. Choose your best projects: pick a variety of work that shows your skills and the results you've achieved. Write compelling case studies: for each project, explain the challenge, your solution and the outcome. Use data to back up your claims. Pick the right platform: choosing the  best website builder for portfolio  websites can make the process much simpler. For instance, Wix provides an easy-to-use website builder  that lets you bring your ideas to life. You can also start with professional portfolio templates to get a head start. Show your personality: use your portfolio to express your unique style and voice. This helps you connect with potential clients on a personal level. Make it easy to contact you: include a clear call-to-action and a simple contact form. Wix makes portfolio website creation easy. With its intuitive portfolio maker  and drag and drop website builder , you can design a beautiful site without knowing a single line of code. Wix also offers reliable and free website hosting , with the option to buy a domain name  along with a matching business email  and create online forms .  “A portfolio isn’t just a collection of projects, it’s your opportunity to demonstrate how you approach a problem, analyze the data and transform it into something meaningful. That’s what sets you apart as a true analyst.” - Doreen Weissfelner, head of Wix analytics and home  Related posts:  Should I make a website for my portfolio? What should a portfolio website include?  How to create a graphic design portfolio Portfolio name ideas Marketing portfolio examples FAQ What should a marketing portfolio include? Your marketing portfolio should include your best work, such as case studies from campaigns, content you've created, social media results and any data that shows your impact. Also, include your resume, an "About Me" section and a clear way for people to contact you. How do I make a marketing portfolio with no experience? If you don't have professional experience, create your own projects. You could create a blog , manage social media for a local club or create a mock campaign for a brand you admire. These projects show your skills and initiative. How many projects should be in a marketing portfolio? Aim for 3-5 of your strongest projects. It’s better to have a few high-quality examples with detailed case studies than a lot of weaker ones. Focus on showing a range of skills and impressive results. Do I need a website for my marketing portfolio? Yes, a website is the most professional way to present your portfolio. It allows you to control the design, tell your story and make it easy for potential employers to see your work. Wix offers a free  AI website builder that can create a unique, business-ready site for you in no time. How do I get my marketing portfolio noticed? Share your portfolio on LinkedIn, include the link in your email signature and mention it on your resume. You can also optimize your portfolio for search engines with relevant keywords so that people searching for marketers can find you.

Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce →   You think of a brilliant idea for an online store. Or perhaps you read about another successful entrepreneur and got inspired. You muster up the confidence to pursue your idea—only to wind up wondering “Where do I begin?” To make your life easier, we’ve put together this guide with step-by-step instructions on how to build an online store . Whether you’re starting a business from scratch or taking your brick-and-mortar business online, we’ll help you get started on the right foot. Ready to start your eCommerce journey? Now’s the perfect time to bring your vision to life. With Wix eCommerce, you have the tools to build a professional online store and create a website that captivates your audience, drives traffic and boosts sales. Take the first step and explore Wix eCommerce today. Make your mark online and turn your ideas into success. TL;DR: How to start an online store Kicking off an online store means making some big decisions for your brand, your business and your sales. First up: pick a niche and really get to know your audience. Next, build a strong brand with a memorable name, a clear look and a consistent feel. Set up your business and register it correctly. After that, choose a platform that fits your needs, keeps your site safe and can grow with you. Plan for costs early—platforms hosting domains getting your products and extra tools all add up and affect how smoothly your store runs. Design your store to make shopping easy and fun, with clear buttons great images and lots of payment options. Get people to visit with smart marketing, track what's working with analytics and give amazing customer service so buyers keep coming back. Along the way, focus on strategies that help you make money online while your store grows. How to start an online store in 10 steps Choose a niche and determine your target audience Create a strong branding strategy Decide on your business structure and register your business Pick an eCommerce platform Name your store and get a domain Design your online store for sales Connect a payment provider Optimize your online store Start your marketing campaigns Create a customer service plan 01. Choose a niche and determine your target audience Choosing which products to sell online  will require careful consideration. Beyond thinking about what your target audience likes, you’ll need to do a bit of competitive recon and ask yourself some key questions. For starters: which brands are already popular online? What unique pain points can you help to solve? How do you plan on sourcing your products? Learn more: How to sell on Wix Generate and refine product ideas To get the ideas flowing, here are a few things to try. Optimize a popular product: Take what you know works and make it better. This is something big retailers do with their  private label products . They’ll check to see what’s popular in stores or online, then create their own versions. Try this out for yourself by using tools like Jungle Scout  or checking sites like Amazon’s Best Sellers list . Scour reviews on leading brands to discover what their products are missing. Look out for an untapped market: Have you ever searched for a product online and realized that nothing really wows you? Did your brother mention something that would be cool to own over dinner? There’s no replacement for an original idea. This is how Wix user DIVINIA Water developed its international business. Founder Steven Sedlmayr realized that there was a gap in the market for drinkable water—particularly pure water with functional benefits. Follow the trends: Whether born out of necessity or a viral topic, there’s always a plethora of trending products  to choose from. The key here is to have a system for understanding what’s driving a product’s success. How long will the trend last? What marketing do you need to do to keep the momentum going? Be careful not to commit to a product that will lose interest as quickly as it gained it. Once you’ve brainstormed a few good ideas, take some time to make sure that it’s a realistic item to sell. Ask yourself if your item is easy to ship, where you can sell it and whether you can turn a profit. To start an online clothing store , define your niche—like sustainable streetwear or custom pieces—and know your customers’ style and sizing needs. Build a brand with a fitting name, logo, colors and visual style. Use high-quality images, detailed fabric and fit descriptions and plan inventory by size and season. Streamline shipping and returns and promote through social media, influencers and trend-driven campaigns while tracking sales and feedback. Target the right audience for your online store Beyond that, you need to identify your target audience. The closer you are to your product (or audience), the greater your chances of building a successful business. If you already have a product idea, use that to determine your ideal customer. If not, consider an audience that you’re most familiar with. What products do you use on a regular basis? What do you value the most about your favorite brands? Or, who in your life are you looking to serve with your products? As with any business, it helps to find a purpose that will keep you motivated in the long run. Ecommerce, after all, isn’t just sunshine and butterflies (see our guide on what is eCommerce ). There are numerous logistical and financial questions you’ll have to address. By reminding yourself why you’re running your business and for whom, you can better stay on track. To that end, take the time to establish buyer personas. Personas help you get into the mind of your buyer and, in turn, make decisions regarding messaging, your eCommerce website  design, marketing strategies and more. Learn more: What's the best way to start an online store? 02. Create a strong branding strategy Branding is a big part of your online success. At a time when an increasing number of shoppers are open to buying from brands they’ve never heard of, it’s critical for you to have a strong eCommerce branding strategy that leaves a strong impression. Branding includes everything from your business’ name, logo, favicon, typography, color palette and tone of voice. Your business’ brand should strongly relate to the type of company you are and the mood you want to create. Build your online store visual identity Start off by creating your brand palette. You could use blues and greens to match your environmentally friendly water bottles. Or you may use brighter colors to emanate a cheery, energetic mood. Whichever direction you go, make sure you have a reason for why you chose your brand colors rather than arbitrarily selecting them. Save three to four hex color codes to reference moving forward. Next, create a logo for your business with the help of a designer or logo maker . Needless to say that it should be strong, memorable, and uniquely yours. A classic example is the Nike swoosh. (Would you be surprised to learn that Nike co-founder Phil Knight initially reacted to the logo saying “I don’t love it, but maybe it’ll grow on me”?) The success of the logo surely has something to do with the fact that it represents motion and speed, two values of the athletes that Nike sells to. Note: you’re not trying to find a logo that simply speaks to your tastes. You’re trying to find one that speaks to your audience—don’t forget that. Set tone of voice and ensure brand consistency Another important aspect to your brand is your tone of voice. This should be taken into account when writing your product descriptions, social media posts, and other communications. Should your tone be playful? Serious? How would you speak to your target buyers if you were talking with them face to face? All of these branding factors will be important when your building content for your brand, including: Your website Emails Invoices Product packaging Shipping materials Marketing campaigns To start an online supplement store , focus on a clear niche like protein powders, vitamins or nootropics. Source products from certified manufacturers with lab-tested quality and consider private-label options to stand out. Build a health-focused brand with clear labels, dosage info and benefits highlighted. Use a platform that supports subscriptions, detailed product pages and multiple payment options. Promote through fitness influencers, educational content and customer reviews to grow trust and sales. 03. Decide on your business structure and register your business By this point, you’re probably bouncing in your seat, ready to get started. However, there are a few legal things you’ll have to take care of in order to make your business official. This includes an official filing that ensures that your business is recognized by the government. It additionally includes decisions that will affect your eligibility for business funding, tax obligations, personal protections, and more. First and foremost, you need to decide how your business will be structured. Here are some of the most common types of business : Sole proprietorship : This means you and your business are legally and financially linked together. This is the simplest form of business to start. That said, you cannot operate as an employer. Rather, you operate and run the business as an individual. Limited Liability Company (LLC) : This option lets you keep your personal and business assets separate, lowering the risk of starting a business. LLCs are relatively quick to set up and offer various business tax benefits. Partnership: If you’re starting your business with two or more business partners, you’ll need to sign a partner agreement, which determines how you’ll split duties and profits. This agreement will track each partner's roles, responsibilities, investments, and rights. Corporation : A corporation usually refers to an established business that includes shareholders and employees. There are various types of corporations you can create. Corporations can be initiated by an individual or group of people. If you’re setting up your business as a sole proprietorship, you can avoid any formal action in order to create your business. Nonetheless, you’ll still need to apply for any relevant license and permits that are relevant to your business and location. Check with the  US Small Business Administration  to determine what you’ll need. Register your business and manage taxes Moving forward, you’ll need to pay estimated taxes  each quarter as well, according to IRS standards, and potentially collect and remit online sales tax. If you’re looking to set up an LLC, partnership or corporation, we suggest you consult a business lawyer. Deciding to register your business is a crucial step that legally establishes your company and protects your brand name. It not only grants you legal rights but also enhances credibility with customers and potential partners. On top of that, having official business status allows you to open a business bank account, apply for necessary permits and access funding opportunities. Learn more: How to register a business How to license a business  (for your US based business) How does eCommerce work? To start an online toy store , focus on sourcing safe, age-appropriate and engaging toys. Identify popular licenses or unique items that stand out. Set up product pages with clear images and descriptions, highlight educational or fun features and plan marketing around playful storytelling, demos and seasonal trends. 04. Pick an eCommerce platform If you’ve figured out what products to sell and how to source them, then you’re halfway to the finish line. The next step is to build a site where you’ll list your products. Your site is the face of your brand. It’s where you’ll have the most control over your branding and the overall buyer journey. It’s also where you’ll be accepting payments and handling essential tasks. It can also be an all in one solution that allows you to handle your selling, marketing, payments, logistics  and procurement . Learn more about what is Wix Payments. So, it’s important to find the best eCommerce platform  to host your site. At this stage, don’t let the bells and whistles of a platform woo you. Make sure to look under the hood and ask all the necessary questions. Factors to consider when choosing an eCommerce platform Features: No two platforms are the same. Some platforms—like WooCommerce—are like blank canvases but require a developer’s help to set up and maintain. Others—like Wix eCommerce—don’t require former coding experience. Instead, you can pick from existing templates, blocks, and apps to build an online store without fuss. (You can additionally connect your favorite payment solution, track inventory, automate sales tax, and more. Learn how to set up your online store with Wix.) Specialty businesses: Do you plan on  selling CBD  or do you have another niche business idea? Check that your platform has the capabilities to support your line of business. Mobile view: Does your website builder optimize for mobile? Will shoppers be able to comfortably browse your store on their phones? Can you accept mobile payments? Considering how mobile commerce has taken the world by storm, it’s especially important for your site to be mobile responsive. Scalability: Replatforming can be a pain later on, so you’ll want to find a system that can support your business both now and later. To that end, consider if you’ll be able to upgrade your plan easily to access more professional tools, like ads, pre-orders and discount campaigns. Make sure you’re not being taxed for your success (e.g., having to pay large commission fees as you make more sales). Web security and reliability: This is too often an afterthought or something that sellers think of only after they’ve fallen victim to a disaster. In reality, security and reliability should always be top of mind. How will you avoid a site crash if sales suddenly spike? How will you defend your online store from hackers, fraudulent transactions, and potential chargebacks? Make sure your eCommerce platform provides public key certification - either SSL or TLS. This will give your site https at the start of its domain and will help build credibility between you and your potential customers. You'll also need to make sure your platform has reliable and secure web hosting , that can respond to sudden traffic influxes and provide as high uptime as possible. SEO: You want your site to rank on Google. In order to do so, you need a strong technical SEO foundation to start with, then tools to optimize your site the way you want to. Wix, for instance, offers the ability to customize your meta tags, URLs, structured data markup, and more. Check to see which SEO capabilities your platform has to offer. AI capabilities: Online stores never close, and your customer support shouldn’t either. Wix AI Site Chat  delivers real-time support that keeps customers engaged and ready to buy. Easy to set up and always on, it smooths the path to checkout so your store keeps moving, even when you’re off the clock. You can also check out the Wix AI Site Chat overview  for a deeper look at how it works. Choose a website builder that allows you to make fast pivots with your business needs. If one day to the next, you need to add events or an online store, make sure your website builder makes that possible for you. - Esin D. Habif, Product Marketing Lead Outbound at Wix.com Pro tip: Your free eCommerce hosting on Wix is automatically set up when you publish your site—no installation needed—and supports successful online stores of every size. 05. Name your store and get a domain Finally. It’s time to get working on your brand. Start by thinking of a memorable name for your business. A great name can help give you a competitive advantage in your target market Brainstorm words associated with your product, industry, values, or unique selling point. Or, use a  store name generator  to gain some inspiration. To guide your name choice, consider SEO. Identify terms that shoppers are using to find either physical or digital products  like yours. You can use Google Trends or keyword research tools, like Semrush, for help in this area. Plus, you can check out our SEO guide  for additional tips. It may not be a bad idea to mention your product category or product type directly in the name. This will let shoppers know what you offer right away. For example, if you’re selling hats, you can include the word “accessories,” “fedoras” or “caps” within your name. Check for uniqueness and simplicity But above all, make sure your business name stands out and is not already being used. You can do this in one of several ways: Research your direct competitors Search your name ideas on Google and social media Check your local business registration service Simplicity is key. Choosing a name with an easy spelling and pronunciation, secures quick recognition and recall. A great business name captures attention, evokes emotion, and sticks in the mind. It should be unique yet memorable, reflecting your brand's essence and values. Daniele Pitkowski, Product Marketing Manager - Alternative Flows at Wix.com Register and connect your domain After you’ve decided on a business name,  choose the best domain name  for your site from a domain name registrar. Try to match your store name exactly. This will help your customers find and remember your brand online. Note that for any domain name, you’ll likely pay around $10-$15 per year. With Wix eCommerce, you can register and connect a domain name directly from your site. In fact, once you’ve set up your store, you’ll have the option to get your domain name  for free for one year. 06. Design your online store for sales This is the fun part. Here is where your creativity can shine. The trick here is to design a store that’s both well-branded and optimized for conversions. Your customers should not only be impressed by the look-and-feel of your store, but should also be able to easily find your products and confidently make a purchase. Learn more: What is an online store? , Website vs online store Pointers for designing your site Use an eCommerce template: There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Wix offers plenty of  online store templates  that can be adjusted and customized to make sure your store looks entirely unique. At the same time, these templates will include all the key features your store will need so you won’t have to create it all from scratch. Carefully think through your site’s structure: Observe how other major brands and retailers use navigation menus, filters, breadcrumbs and shopping carts to create a smooth user experience. Avoid cluttering up any nav bar or page, and hone in on the search behaviors and terminology that resonate with your target audience. Follow the three-click rule: As a general rule of thumb, your products should be accessible within three or less clicks. Meaning, it should be easy for your customers to get from your homepage (or any other landing page) to their desired product page. They shouldn’t have to dig through many layers of your site to find what they’re looking for. Don’t forget about key links—like your shipping information, returns policy, and contact info—which could be included in your footer. Be clear about what you sell: Your visitors should know what you sell immediately upon arrival. While your off-site advertising and marketing efforts should help with this, you’ll want to reaffirm your area of expertise via clear page headings, clear search menus, and powerful imagery. Pro tip:  Update your site’s metadata to include the type of store you are. For example, if you’re a t-shirt business called PlopTee, your site’s meta title should read “PlopTee | T-Shirt Store.” Write clear calls-to-action (CTAs): At every stage throughout the buying process, your customers should know what they should do next. Create button text and other prompts that are intuitive and compelling. The customer should know exactly where each click will lead (e.g., “Add to cart” or “Explore more products like this”). Learn from these 14 high-converting product page examples . Don’t skimp on your product descriptions: It’s easy to get lazy with your descriptions, especially if your manufacturers already provide copy for you to use. But failing to write original descriptions is a big missed opportunity . Between their impact on SEO and on brand trust, your product descriptions can influence your return rates, visibility, and more. See tips for writing strong product descriptions. Be intentional with your images: You don’t need us to tell you that   product photography is an extremely important aspect to selling online. Customers often sift through images first and sometimes rely heavily on your photos to make their purchase decision. Use professional photos and videos to showcase the product’s looks, feel, size, dimensions, proper use, and more. View more eCommerce product photography tips . 07. Connect a payment provider In order to earn your first dollar from eCommerce, you need to decide how you’ll get paid. It’s always a good idea to offer multiple payment methods. Just think about the last time you walked into a store or restaurant. You likely expected them to accept credit cards, or even Apple Pay. However, on occasion you may walk into a store that only accepts cash—in which case, you’re either in or out of luck. The same logic applies online, where you can offer payment options like: Credit/debit cards Digital wallets (like PayPal) Bank transfers In-person payment (if you have a brick-and-mortar store) Buy now, pay later solutions NFT Choose the right payment gateway There are also various payment gateways (aka payment processors or providers) to choose from. Payment gateways are what ensure a safe, successful transfer of funds. Some gateways may be better than others, depending on your location and business type. Whichever you choose, your provider will need to verify your bank account before you can take home the money that you earn. Before deciding on a payment gateway, make sure you're aware of any associated costs. These can include: Domain registration fees Hosting plans Transaction fees Integrated payment solutions with Wix For U.S.-based businesses, Wix Payments is a popular website payment solution  for accepting credit, debit, Pay Now by Klarna, and other methods at checkout. It’s free and easy to set up on your Wix account. You ultimately benefit from having one, integrated dashboard to personalize your payout cycles and more. Another option is to select from third-party plugins, which include 50+ payment gateways  worldwide. Wix doesn’t charge additional transaction fees and can immediately be integrated with your gateway-of-choice. 08. Optimize your site Once your online store is up and running, you need to optimize it so people can find it on Google and other search engines. This helps you attract and retain customers, as well as improve your overall sales performance. Top tips to optimize your site: Improve site speed:  Ensure your website loads quickly by compressing images and leveraging browser caching. A faster site enhances user experience and can improve search engine rankings. Enhance mobile responsiveness:  With an increasing number of customers shopping on mobile devices, make sure your site is fully responsive. Test your site's performance on various devices, ensuring a seamless experience across all platforms. Use SEO best practices:  Optimize your product pages with relevant keywords, descriptive meta tags and high-quality content. This will help increase your site's visibility in search engine results, driving more organic traffic. Streamline navigation:  Make it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for by organizing your site navigation logically. Use clear headings, categories and search functionalities to guide users effortlessly through the shopping process. Improve checkout process:  Simplify the checkout process by reducing the number of steps required to complete a purchase. Offer guest checkout options, multiple payment methods and clear calls-to-action to enhance user satisfaction and reduce cart abandonment rates. Learn more about adding an online shopping cart to your store. 09. Start your marketing campaigns Your store is now ready to take on sales. It’s time to start shouting it from the rooftops. Drive customers to your online store using a variety of marketing strategies. Organic marketing tools Social media marketing: Create a business page for yourself on social platforms like Facebook and Instagram, choose the social platform where your target market is most likely to be found. Update your business information and leverage your channels as both a sales and customer service vehicle. Channels like Instagram and TikTok support checkout directly from their platforms. Learn more about your social commerce options.  Consider using influencer marketing to really make impact with your business and drive brand loyalty. You might also want to consider using social proof as a trust signal on your online store website. Email marketing : Emails are far from dead. In fact, emails grant you direct access to customers who have opted into your communications via your content marketing campaigns. To get started, create a business email address. Then develop an email list by adding a lightbox to your site that encourages sign up, adding signup as an option at checkout, or including a link in your footer. You can additionally offer a special discount or other incentive, like gift cards, if a customer joins your email list. Plan on sending regular newsletters, promotions, business updates, product recommendations and other types of eCommerce emails. Remember to adhere to privacy regulations and laws in your country of business before sending email marketing materials. SEO: Use this digital marketing strategy to   ptimize your site to rank high on Google’s search results and generate more traffic to your store long with long term brand awareness. Optimize your meta titles and descriptions for each site page, and follow other eCommerce SEO  best practices. Moreover, take advantage of other free tools like Google Shopping and Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business). Each of these help with local search, in addition to overall visibility on Google. Loyalty program: A loyalty program can help to secure repeat customers and increase your customer lifetime value rates. While they require thoughts and careful planning, Wix loyalty program plugins can help to streamline the process. Offer rewards for each order placed, or special actions like sharing your product on social media. Drive more attention while taking good care of your existing customers. Paid marketing tools Facebook and Instagram ads: Facebook and Instagram offer various ad placements, which help you to target certain demographics or interest groups on their respective platforms. Wix lets you create  Facebook and Instagram Ads  directly from your site dashboard and uses AI to optimize your ads around the clock. Google Shopping ads: Google Shopping ads are pay-per-click (PPC) ads that help you to skip to the top of relevant search results. When a customer clicks the ads, they’re either sent directly to your website or a Google checkout page, depending on your settings. Discover more about Google Shopping and other types of Google ads. Analytics Analyzing data from your marketing campaigns is key to understanding their impact and improving your store's performance. With tools like   Wix Analytics  you can track site traffic, product sales and customer behavior to uncover valuable insights.  See how visitors find your store and which pages grab their attention most. Identify your best-selling products and discover which items might need more promotion or tweaks. By studying customer behavior—like their journey to making a purchase—you can better anticipate their needs and refine your strategies.  Regularly reviewing your analytics keeps you connected to your audience and helps you make informed data-driven decisions. Stay ahead and ensure your store continues to grow and succeed. 10. Create a customer service plan Developing a comprehensive customer service plan is vital for the success and reputation of your online store. A well-thought-out plan ensures that you meet your customer's needs and foster loyalty. Begin by outlining the channels through which customers can reach you, such as email, phone, live chat or social media. Establish clear response times to inquiries and set protocols for resolving different types of issues efficiently. Training your team to handle customer interactions with empathy and professionalism is key to providing exceptional service. It's also good to have a feedback mechanism for continuous improvement, as listening to your customers helps identify areas for enhancement and development. A solid customer service plan not only satisfies your current customer base but also attracts new customers through positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals. How much does it cost to start an online store? When starting your online store, every choice you make is a building block for your business and a misstep can be costly. Slow hosting, clunky navigation or unreliable suppliers can hurt your sales, waste your time and cause major headaches. Imagine your site crashing during a huge sale or a customer returning an item because it wasn't what they expected—no one wants that. The secret is to plan ahead, avoid common traps and focus on what directly impacts your customers and daily workflow. Think of each decision as an investment in your store’s future not just another expense. Making smart choices now will make your business easier to run and help it grow faster. Here’s a realistic look at what to expect. Ecommerce platform Your platform is the engine of your online store. It powers everything from product pages to checkout, inventory tracking, and marketing tools. A basic plan might let you list products and accept payments, but it often lacks features that save time and prevent problems as you grow. Spending a bit more upfront can prevent headaches, missed sales, and costly platform migrations down the line. For example, without abandoned cart recovery, you could lose customers who were ready to buy but got distracted. Paid plans often include features like real-time shipping rate calculations, which prevent overselling and surprise shipping costs—something that keeps both you and your customers happy. Higher-tier plans usually also include analytics to see which products sell best, mobile optimization for shoppers on their phones, and integrations with marketing apps. Here’s what you can expect to pay for different plans and what you’ll get for your money (prices may vary by provider): Free: $0/month Great for testing ideas or listing a few products. Comes with limited features, manual processes and basic checkout options. You might outgrow the platform quickly or miss out on tools that help boost sales. Basic: $10–$39/month Covers standard product listings, checkout and payments. You’ll likely get some automation and basic reporting. A good fit for small stores but might lack the advanced tools you need to grow faster. Advanced: $40/month and up Adds powerful automation and optimization tools like marketing support, inventory management and checkout enhancements. Usually includes detailed analytics, reporting and mobile optimization. Helps you avoid headaches, lost sales and pricey platform migrations as your business gets bigger. Domain and hosting Your domain is your store’s address, and hosting is the foundation it runs on. Both are important for making your brand look professional and keeping your store running well. A domain name that’s easy to remember builds trust instantly and helps customers find you again. Spending $10–$15 a year on a clean domain is a simple move that makes a big difference. Hosting is a bit more complex. Cheap hosting for around $5 a month might seem like a bargain, but it often leads to slow loading times or crashes when you get a lot of visitors. If your pages take too long to load, customers will probably just buy from a competitor. More reliable hosting, which usually runs from $10–$30 a month, will give you faster speeds, better security and the power to grow without losing sales. Branding and design Your store’s vibe really changes how many sales you make. A great logo, matching colors and a clean look build trust and make shopping simple. Putting a bit more into branding and design now means fewer problems (and costly fixes) later. It also helps customers trust you more and makes your marketing work harder. Even small tweaks, like better product photos or clearer navigation, can quickly boost your sales online. How much you spend depends on who does the work: DIY / template-based ($0–$50) : Use free or cheap templates and DIY logo tools. It keeps costs super low, perfect for trying out ideas. Just know it might not look as unique or polished. Freelancer / mid-tier design ($100–$500) : Get a freelancer for your logo, colors or custom layout. This brings a professional touch and can really push those sales. For instance, putting a strong color scheme and a clear call-to-action can bump up "Add to cart" clicks. Agency / premium design ($1,000+) : A full-service agency gives you a unique store that's ready to win. This means custom design just for your users, pro photos and everything you need for marketing. Product sourcing and inventory How you get your products impacts your costs, control and customer perception. Dropshipping means low upfront costs (just a few dollars to list), but smaller profit margins and less control over shipping speed or quality. If a custom mug arrives late or broken, it reflects poorly on your store, even if it's out of your hands. Buying inventory requires more cash upfront, but gives you full control over quality, packaging and shipping speed. For example, buying 50 handmade candles lets you brand the packaging and set delivery times, helping you charge more and build customer trust. Always order samples to check quality. This avoids costly returns and keeps customers happy. Payment processing Payment gateways usually charge 2–3% per transaction plus occasional monthly fees ($0–$30). Offering multiple options—credit/debit cards, digital wallets or installment plans—makes buying easier and can boost sales. For instance, a shopper might abandon their cart if your store only accepts cards but they prefer a digital wallet. Integrated systems, like those included in higher-tier eCommerce plans, prevent failed transactions, reduce manual reconciliations and ensure you don’t lose revenue due to technical issues. Marketing and promotion The best store won’t sell itself—you need people to find it. Organic marketing, like SEO, social media posts, and email newsletters, brings in traffic without costing a dime for clicks. You might spend a little ($0–$100/month) on tools like scheduling apps or email services. Or, if you're strapped for time, you could hire a pro to handle this for you, which would be an added service cost. Paid marketing is a great way to spread the word. You can start small, like $50–$200 a month for ads on search engines or social media. Then, as you see results, you can do more. A $100 Instagram ad targeting your ideal customers can quickly show you which products are a hit and help you make sales. This helps you invest smarter. Analytics tools, either free or up to $50 a month for more in-depth tracking, help you understand what’s working, where your visitors are coming from, and how to improve your campaigns. Without good tracking, you might just be throwing money at ads that don't bring in new people. Optional tools and apps Apps for inventory management, loyalty programs or advanced analytics can make running your store easier but aren’t necessary when you first start. Costs usually range from $0–$50/month per app. For example an inventory app can prevent overselling popular items while a loyalty program encourages repeat customers. Start lean and only add tools once you see a clear need. Overloading your store with apps too early can complicate things and add unnecessary costs. Open an online store with a dropshipper (optional) If you want to start selling quickly, you could always give dropshipping  a whirl. A dropshipping business includes some key perks, like minimal upfront costs and easy management. When you own a dropshipping business , you work with a supplier who handles manufacturing, warehousing, and shipping—all on your behalf. Here’s a play-by-play of how it works: You choose the products you want to dropship from your supplier’s catalog You list those products on your dropshipping website  and set your own prices A shopper purchases the products and pays for it on your site You forward the customer’s order (plus pay) your supplier Your supplier ships the product directly to your customer’s address Wix eCommerce offers direct integrations into popular dropshipping services like Modalyst  and Spocket . By using our integrated solution, you can manage and list products from your suppliers without leaving Wix. Any customer orders will also be automatically routed to your software and suppliers, allowing you to easily manage all of your back-office and customer-facing tasks in one place. Why eCommerce is important Ecommerce is crucial in today’s business landscape for reaching a broad, global audience and breaking down geographical barriers that traditional stores face. It enables businesses of all sizes to access new markets and customer bases that were otherwise unreachable. Economically, eCommerce reshapes industries by reducing operational costs, as online stores require less overhead than physical stores. It also fosters competition, driving innovation and product improvement. Common mistakes to avoid when starting an online store One common mistake new online store owners make is not clearly communicating what makes their business unique. Decent products and discounts aren’t enough to stand out. You need to answer this key question: “Why should customers choose you?” Highlight the problems your product solves, the benefits it offers and what sets you apart from competitors. Build a compelling story around your brand and make it the heart of your marketing strategy. A strong value proposition helps establish trust and creates an emotional connection with your audience. Another challenge is underestimating the power of branding and marketing. Branding isn’t just about a catchy name or logo—it’s about tapping into what your audience values. Combine this with a smart marketing plan and allocate at least 30% of your revenue to marketing efforts. Paid ads, like Facebook or Google Ads, can generate traffic, but professional, creative campaigns are essential. Avoid relying solely on discounts or generic products. Instead, focus on a unique brand identity and high-quality items that resonate with your niche. Finally, rushing your launch or skipping key planning steps can hurt your store’s long-term growth. Take the time to research your niche, understand your products and deeply know your audience. Avoid shortcuts like copying others—what works for them might not work for you. Quick success is rare, and the challenges can be overwhelming without proper preparation. By planning carefully and staying flexible, you’ll set yourself up for lasting success and build a business that stands out. Using Wix eCommerce to open an online store But your online store could be launched within a matter of days. Wix eCommerce provides all the tools for getting set up quickly, including tools for inventory  management, payments, website analytics and more. Your main job is to brew up a solid business plan. Once that’s in place, you can create your online store  with us and start selling right away. Selling online with Wix means: Use built-in AI features and exceptional no-code creation to turn your online store vision into reality even faster 100s of fully customizable and free eCommerce website templates Sell anything easily, including physical and digital products, subscriptions, dropshipping and print on demand AI image editor for better product photos AI product descriptions AI product recommendations Wix retail POS for selling in-person Reach shoppers on Google, eBay, Etsy, Amazon, Facebook Instagram, TikTok and Wish and manage it all from your Wix dashboard Sell internationally with Wix multilingual, currency converter and 80+ trusted global payment providers Customizable data reports and real-time analytics to help you sell better Native shipping solutions Robust website infrastructure for maximum reliability and security Watch our free video courses to learn more about eCommerce  today. How to start an online store FAQ What is the best platform to sell online for beginners? The best eCommerce platform for beginners is easy to use, secure and flexible. It should handle payments smoothly, offer customizable templates, support mobile shopping and scale as your business grows. It should also include basic marketing tools, analytics and inventory management to help you run your store efficiently. Wix eCommerce lets you set up a professional online store without coding, manage payments and inventory in one place and access tools for marketing and analytics to grow your business over time. How much does it cost to open an online shop? The cost to open an online shop can vary widely based on factors such as the eCommerce platform you choose, the complexity of your website design and your marketing strategies. On average, initial costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your specific needs and scale. Can I open an online store without an LLC? Yes, you can open an online store without forming an LLC. However, operating as a sole proprietor means you are personally liable for the business's debts and obligations. Forming an LLC can offer personal liability protection and potential tax benefits. It's advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand the implications and benefits of choosing the right business structure for your online store. Where can I get products for my online store? You can source products for your online store through various channels, including wholesaler suppliers, manufacturers and dropshipping partners. Consider attending trade shows or using online marketplaces to find potential suppliers. You can also explore white-label or private-label options to offer unique products under your brand. How do I start an online store with no money? Starting an online store with no money requires leveraging free resources and platforms. Consider using a free eCommerce platform or a trial version to set up your store. Try dropshipping to avoid upfront inventory costs. Use free marketing strategies such as social media and content marketing to promote your store. Look for opportunities to barter or collaborate with others for services you need. Can you sell online without a business license?  Yes, in some regions you can start as a sole proprietor without a license. However, having a license adds legal protection, credibility and makes it easier to open a business bank account and manage taxes properly. How do I secure my online store and customer data? Use a secure eCommerce platform with SSL certificates to encrypt customer data during checkout. Keep software and plugins updated enable strong passwords and consider two-factor authentication for accounts. Regularly back up your store and monitor for suspicious activity to prevent breaches. Should I keep inventory or use dropshipping? Keeping inventory gives you full control over quality packaging and shipping speed. This can boost customer experience and allow higher profit margins. Dropshipping cuts upfront costs and storage needs but often means lower margins and less control over fulfillment. Pick what works best for your budget storage capacity and how much control you want. What are the most important sections that my online store should have? Essential sections for your online store include: Homepage : An engaging introduction to your store and brand. Product pages : Detailed information and images for each product. Shopping cart and checkout : A seamless and secure purchasing process. About us : Information about your brand’s story and values. Contact page : Easy ways for customers to reach you. FAQs : Answers to common customer questions. Return policy : Clear information on returns and exchanges. How do I price my products for profit? Factor in all costs including production, shipping, platform fees, marketing and taxes, then add a margin that reflects your value and market positioning. Research competitor pricing to make sure your prices are competitive while staying profitable. Adjust prices over time based on sales trends, demand and customer feedback. How do I know which products will sell best? Research market trends, customer reviews and best-seller lists in your niche. Test products with small batches, social media ads or pre-orders to gauge interest before investing heavily. Track performance using analytics to see which products drive the most engagement and sales. Do I need to collect sales tax for online sales? Sales tax rules vary depending on your location and your customers' locations. Many regions require online sellers to collect tax if you have a physical presence or meet certain sales thresholds. Use your eCommerce platform's tools or consult a tax professional to ensure compliance. How do I handle returns and refunds? You need a clear, easy-to-find return policy. It should explain the conditions, timelines and procedures for returns. Offer simple, hassle-free refunds to build trust. But protect yourself with restocking fees or specific conditions for high-value items if needed. Process returns quickly and communicate clearly with customers to maintain satisfaction. Is it profitable to open an online store? Yes, opening an online store can be profitable, but success depends on several factors. Key elements include conducting thorough market research, identifying a profitable niche and effective marketing. Profitability is influenced by product demand, competition, pricing strategy and your ability to manage operating costs. What legal considerations should I be aware of when selling online? First, make sure your business is properly registered and follows all local business laws, including getting the right licenses and permits. You also need to protect intellectual property, respect privacy laws and create clear terms of service for your site. Stay aware of advertising, tax and consumer protection regulations to avoid fines or legal issues.

The perfect domain is just a click away:   claim your domain →  If you're wondering 'Can you buy a domain name forever?', the short answer is no—but also, sort of yes. Say you’ve just come up with the perfect, catchy, memorable name for your website. Naturally, you want to lock it down so no one else can snag it. But realistically, can you buy a domain name forever? Technically, when you create a website , you can’t buy a domain name outright in the same way you buy a house or a pair of shoes. It’s more like a lease. However, with the right strategy and auto-renewals, you can essentially keep that domain for as long as you want (or as long as the internet exists). In this article, we’ll break down exactly how domain registration works, why "forever" isn’t really an option and the smart ways to make sure your domain stays yours for the long haul. 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: can you buy a domain name forever? Short on time? Here’s what you need to know about keeping your domain name for the long term: Feature The reality Ownership You rent the domain from a registrar; you don’t own it permanently. Max registration Most domains can be registered for up to 10 years at a time. "Forever" plans Some registrars offer "lifetime" deals, but in practice they just automate renewals for you. The solution Set up auto-renewal and keep your payment info updated. Risk factor If you miss a renewal payment, your domain could go back on the open market. What is a domain name? Think of a domain name as your address on the internet. If your website is your house, the domain name is the street address people type into their GPS (or browser) to find you. For example, wix.com  is a domain name. Behind the scenes, computers use complex strings of numbers called IP addresses to communicate. But because humans aren't great at remembering strings like 192.0.2.1 , we use domain names instead. When you "buy" a domain, you are registering that specific address with an organization called ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers). They manage the central database of all web addresses. You pay a registrar (like Wix) to reserve that name for a specific period, usually between one and ten years. Learn more: How to choose a domain name How much does a domain name cost Benefits of holding on to the same domain name While you can’t technically buy it forever in one transaction, keeping the same domain for decades is incredibly valuable. Stability matters for a number of reasons: 01. Builds brand authority If you change your business name or URL every few years, it’s hard for customers to trust you. A long-standing domain signals that you are established and reliable. It’s a stamp of legitimacy that tells visitors, "I'm here to stay." “If we were a smaller company, we probably would have been encouraged to look for a new domain, but the costs of change and potential traffic loss weren't worth it. The value of our domain is purely from the branding perspective. We could move the whole content, redirect all the SEO value and links we have, but the branding is what makes the domain name important to us.” - Kacper Rafalski, Demand Generation Team Leader at Netguru 02. Strengthens SEO rankings Search engines like Google tend to trust older domains that have a history of good content and steady traffic. If you switch domains, you essentially reset the clock on your SEO efforts, losing the "juice" you built up over the years. Sticking with one URL helps you climb the search results and stay there. 03. Consistent traffic Direct traffic, i.e. people typing your URL directly into their browser, is gold. If you’ve printed your URL on business cards, shared it on social media or have it linked on other websites, changing it means all those potential visitors hit a "404 Error" page. Keeping your domain ensures you catch every single visitor. Learn more: what is a URL? Can you buy a domain name forever? Common challenges explained Since true "forever" ownership doesn't exist, you need to be aware of the hurdles that could cause you to lose your domain: Expired credit cards This is the number one reason people lose their domains. You register a domain for five years, forget about it, and in that time, your credit card expires. When the renewal date hits, the payment fails and the domain eventually drops back into the public pool. Learn more about domain expiration . Registrar bankruptcy It’s rare, but it happens. If the company you registered your domain with goes out of business, complications can arise. Usually, ICANN steps in to transfer domains to a new registrar, but it can be a headache you don’t want to deal with. Learn more: how to transfer a domain . Missing renewal emails Registrars send plenty of warnings before a domain expires. But if you used an old email address you no longer check, or if those emails go to spam, you might miss the memo entirely. You may also be interested in: Dropped domains Parked domains Examples of domain names with longevity Most domain names are only registered for one year at a time, with 60% of .com domains lasting no more than one year before expiration or renewal. Moreover, under current policies, the maximum registration period for any domain is 10 years at a time before it must be renewed again. However, some domains have been around almost as long as the public internet itself. These examples prove that while you can't buy "forever," you can certainly hold on for a lifetime. Symbolics.com:  Registered in March 1985, this was the very first .com domain ever registered. It is still active today. IBM.com:  Also registered in 1986, showing that big brands understood the value of digital real estate early on. Wix.com:  We’ve held onto our domain since 2006, building a reputation and authority that helps millions of users create their own sites today. These sites prove that with simple management, a lease can effectively become permanent ownership. Learn more about the domain lifecycle . Can you buy a domain name forever? Let's find out Ready to secure your name for the long haul? Here is the step-by-step game plan to get as close to "forever" as possible. Choose a reliable registrar Max out your registration period Turn on auto-renew Keep your contact info current Add a backup payment method 01. Choose a reliable registrar Start with a trustworthy registrar that is accredited by ICANN. You want a company with a solid track record, good support and transparent pricing. Wix offers easy domain name search and registration, making it simple to find and lock down your ideal name. Learn more: how to choose a domain registrar . 02. Max out your registration period Most registrars allow you to register a domain for up to 10 years at a time. If you are serious about this business, don’t go year-to-year. Pay for the full decade upfront. It saves you the hassle of annual renewals and locks in the price. “Changing domains down the road can be costly and confusing, so it pays to choose thoughtfully from the start. A well-chosen name grows with you, making every step of your brand journey feel consistent.” - Ofir Gvili, Domains PMM at Wix 03. Turn on auto-renew This is non-negotiable. Go into your account settings and ensure "Auto-Renew" is toggled on. This grants permission for the registrar to charge your card automatically when the time comes. Learn more about best domain registrars . 04. Keep your contact info current Make a calendar reminder to check your domain settings once a year. Ensure your email address and phone number are up to date so you receive renewal notifications. 05. Add a backup payment method Don’t rely on a single card. Add a secondary credit card or PayPal account to your file. If your primary card fails, the system can try the backup, saving your domain from accidental expiration. You may also be interested in: Domain flipping Domain history How to buy a domain name that lasts with Wix When you buy a domain name with Wix, you get a simple, secure foundation for your online presence from day one. Wix simplifies domain registration for your business, making it easy to find, register and manage your domain in one place. With secure domain registration backed by SSL certification, your site and visitors are protected from the moment you go live. Plus, Wix offers quick domain registration, so you can lock in your web address fast and focus on building, growing and protecting your website with confidence. Learn more: How to get an SSL certificate How much does an SSL certificate cost? Can you buy a domain name forever FAQ Can I buy a domain name permanently? No, you cannot buy a domain permanently in a single transaction. The domain name system works on a renewal basis, similar to renting an apartment. However, you can renew it indefinitely. As long as you keep paying the renewal fee, the domain is yours. What happens if I forget to renew my domain? If you miss the renewal, your domain enters a "grace period" (usually about 30 days) where you can still renew it without penalty. After that, it may enter a "redemption period" where retrieving it costs extra. If you still don't act, the domain is released back to the public, and anyone else can register it. Are there "lifetime" domain registration services? Some companies market "lifetime" domain registration. Be cautious with these. Usually, you pay a large upfront fee, and the company promises to handle the annual renewals for you. The risk is that if the company shuts down, your "lifetime" deal disappears with them. It is generally safer to manage the renewals yourself through a reputable registrar.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Your website starts with a name and a good one makes all the difference. Choosing and registering a domain name can feel tricky—names get snapped up fast, extensions can be confusing and tech details can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to slow you down. This guide walks you through the process step by step so you can claim a domain that fits your brand, works for your audience and gets your website online. TL;DR: How to register a domain name Registering your domain starts with picking a registrar you trust and a name that perfectly fits your brand. After you make sure it's available and choose the right domain extension just enter your details and complete the registration. Next you’ll connect it to your website or email manage your DNS settings and set up privacy protection. Don't forget to keep an eye on renewals to stay in control. While you can also transfer domains or buy pre-owned ones staying on top of management and security is what makes it work for your business. 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 pick a memorable, brand-ready domain name How to check availability and what to do if your preferred domain is taken Free vs paid domains and understanding long-term costs How to choose the right domain extension How to transfer a domain without downtime Common security risks and how to protect your domain What happens after registration, including DNS setup, renewals and ownership Legal considerations, including trademarks, copyrights and compliance What is a domain name? What is a domain name , exactly? This term describes the address that you type into a browser to arrive at a website. It is essentially a website’s home, so every domain is unique. An example is www.wix.com. Domain names were created so people could more easily access a website’s Internet Protocol (IP ), a string of numbers representing individual websites. Every URL has an IP address, and unless you are a computer, a domain is much simpler to remember than a string of numbers. For example, take the IP address 185.230.63.164: to most, this is just a complicated string of numbers. Its domain name, wix.com , is not only easy to remember, but it also conveys a distinct brand that numbers cannot. How to register a domain name Select a domain registrar Choose the best domain name Check the availability of your domain name Select your domain extension Enter your details Purchase your domain To register a domain,  choose a trusted registrar, pick an available name and extension, enter your contact and payment details and complete the purchase. Connect it to your website or email and enable privacy and auto-renew to keep it secure. 01. Select a domain registrar Before you can start choosing a domain name, you need to first know where and how to buy a domain name . A domain registrar is a company that reserves and manages domain names. While the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers ( ICANN ) manages all domains worldwide, a registrar deals with ICANN on your behalf. When picking a domain registrar , choose a company with a good reputation reliable customer support and strong security. Check out their domain extensions renewal policies and transfer rules. See if they offer extras like email hosting or SSL certificates. Make sure they’re ICANN-accredited and offer privacy protection to keep your personal info safe. When choosing among the best domain registrars , keep in mind: Customer support: Check if the registrar offers 24/7 support, accessible via phone, live chat or email. Reliable customer support can be crucial if you encounter technical issues or need help managing your domain. Range of domain extensions: Consider the variety of domain extensions (TLDs) available, especially if you're interested in less common or niche extensions, such as .tech, .ai or country-specific domains. Additional offerings: Look for value-added services such as web hosting, email hosting, SSL certificates and a free website builder , which can simplify managing your online presence in one. Reputation: Research the registrar’s reputation by reading customer reviews and checking industry ratings. A trustworthy registrar with a good track record is less likely to experience outages or take unexpected actions like domain locking or price hikes. Security: Consider the infrastructure the registrar has in place to ensure your domain is secure. Attacks specifically targeting domains include domain hijacking, DNS spoofing , DDoS attacks , typosquatting, domain squatting  and malware distribution, so make sure you understand how to secure your domain. Privacy:  Look for a registrar that offers domain privacy protection to keep your personal information safe from public Whois searches. With Wix you can opt for domain privacy  for no extra fee, when you register your domain. ICANN accreditation:  Choose a registrar accredited by ICANN to ensure they follow industry standards and operate legitimately. Renewal fees: Pay attention to the renewal costs of your domain. While initial prices are often low, you’ll need to renew periodically, so understanding ongoing fees is important to avoid surprises. Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? Tip: With Wix, you can get a unique domain and create your site all in one place. When you upgrade to a premium plan , you’ll even get a voucher for a free domain name for your first year. All Wix sites come with SSL and TLS protocols for added security plus you can set up a custom business email to help you build your brand. Register your domain →   02. Choose the best domain name You must consider many factors when choosing a domain name for your site. First, select a name that reflects your brand’s tone and messaging. Stick to a name that is short and catchy, so that people can easily remember it, such as nbc.com. To improve your SEO efforts, you can incorporate an associated keyword into your brand’s domain name, too. Basic rules for a valid domain name When selecting a domain name, it’s important to follow these basic rules to ensure it’s functional, professional and compliant with domain standards: No spaces : Keep your domain as one continuous string of characters. Stick to letters, numbers and hyphens : Special characters like @ or % aren’t allowed. Use hyphens wisely : Avoid placing them at the beginning or end and don’t use multiple hyphens in a row. Stay within the character limit : Each section of your domain can be 3–63 characters with a total length of up to 253 characters. Case doesn’t matter : Your domain works the same in uppercase or lowercase. Tips for a memorable and brand-friendly domain Keep it short and simple : Choose a name under 20 characters so it’s easy to remember and type. Align it with your brand : Your domain should reflect your business name or purpose to strengthen your identity. Avoid tricky combinations : Watch how words flow together to prevent accidental or confusing meanings. Stick to standard spellings : Creative spellings can be fun but might make it harder for people to find you. Try not to overcomplicate things either, as Lindsay Sutula, founder and CEO of Top Fox Marketing, says as she prioritized three key factors: simplicity, memorability and alignment with their brand identity. According to Lindsay: "I wanted a name that was easy to spell and remember, especially in an age where a strong online presence is critical. The domain had to resonate with our audience and reflect the essence of what we do-helping businesses navigate the complexities of digital marketing with clarity and strategy." Tip : Try using a website name generator to brainstorm ideas to include in your domain name. Also, consider these tips for future-proofing your domain or the best .com alternatives (according to other business owners). 03. Check the availability of your domain name Existing companies may already own your preferred domain names which is why it's important to check for availability. Try out an unlimited number of options for free on a domain name search platform. If your desired name is unavailable, the tool will come up with additional ideas. You can also play around with alternatives with a domain name generator until you find the perfect one. Once you've chosen your name and completed the process of registering it, your details including your name, email and phone number, will be submitted to the WHOIS database. This is a global resource which is publicly accessible and can be queried through the WHOIS protocol (this just means sending a request to the WHOIS server to deliver all of the stored information for a specific domain name) or through an online tool which can send the query. This information can be useful when pursuing intellectual property rights, and cybersecurity threats arising from domain name abuse or hacking. In order to run a WHOIS search, simply use Wix's Whois Lookup tool. You can block access to your information being public accessible via the WHOIS privacy protocol. This involves paying an extra fee to replace your contact information as the domain owner with a third party service. This service will then handle any messages or requests made to you via WHOIS. However this is generally not recommended for public service websites or businesses required to provide contact information. 04. Select your domain extension According to Nick Drewe, the Founder & CEO of Wethrift, Consider the extension. While .com is the go-to, don't shy away from specific ones like .store or .tech if they fit your niche. Lastly, avoid numbers and hyphens. They often confuse people—"Is that 'five' or '5'?" Plus, they just don't look as clean or professional. Understanding domain extensions and TLDs Also known as top-level domains (TLD), domain extensions quickly identify certain website elements such as purpose, owner or geographic location. There are five official types of TLDs, with generic top-level domains (gTLD) accounting for the majority of the 366 million registered domains worldwide. The most popular gTLD choices are .org, .com and .net , making them the easiest to recall. Other specific and significant domain types besides the classic .com , .co , or .net are some of the most popular domain extensions. Other specific and significant domain types besides the classic .com, .co or .net are also gaining traction. For example, .ai , originally a country code TLD for Anguilla, is now widely adopted by artificial intelligence startups and tech-forward companies due to its relevance and memorability. With over 20,000 new registrations each month, this extension continues to grow in popularity as AI-driven businesses look for names that reflect their niche. Other options include .edu and .gov. Country domain extensions, also often known as country code top level domains ( ccTLD s), are a popular choice as well, such as . co.uk (United Kingdom) or .de (Germany). You can check out ICANN’s complete list of domain extensions here . Second-level domains Generally the name you place before your extension, is referred to as the second level domain. So for example, in www.wix.com the second-level domain is "wix." Our domain name "wix.com" is registered with the ".com" top-level domain extension, which is managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and is one of the most commonly used top-level domain extensions for commercial websites. If your domain name is already taken, try it out with a different extension—you may find an available option. However, keep in mind that an extension like .org is better used for nonprofit organizations, while .com usually represents for-profit companies. Learn more with our guide to domain extensions , what .com is and what .net is . 05. Enter your details Once you’ve selected a domain name for your site, claim it before someone else does. Start by entering accurate contact details—your name, address, email and phone number. This information is essential for managing your domain and staying compliant with ICANN regulations. Double-check everything to avoid issues with renewals or updates later. Next, add your billing details to complete the registration. Make sure your payment info is current to avoid any delays. Many registrars offer an auto-renewal option, which is a great way to ensure your domain stays active without interruptions. With your details submitted, you’re ready to finalize your purchase and officially own your domain. 06. Purchase your domain Here’s how to register a domain name with Wix: Head over to the domain registrar. Type in your preferred domain name and click Search . If your name is available, click Get It to proceed. If not, browse the additional ideas or type another option into the search bar. Once you’ve found a domain name that suits your site’s needs, click Get It . Next, decide whether you’d like to register for one, two or three years. The longer your registration period, the more money you save each year. Once you’ve chosen, click Continue and continue to checkout. Connect the domain name to your site and share it with your desired audience, be it friends and family or an internet niche. Types of domains Top-level domains (TLDs)  are the last part of a domain name and the highest level in the Domain Name System (DNS) . They include: Generic TLDs (gTLDs):  Non-geographic domains for general use, like .com, .net and .org. There are over 1,500 gTLDs available. Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs):  Geographic domains for specific countries, like .uk, .ca and .au. There are over 300 ccTLDs. Internationalized TLDs (IDN TLDs):  Domains in non-Latin scripts, such as Arabic, Chinese or Cyrillic, to make the internet more accessible globally. Test TLDs:  Used to test new domains before public release, not intended for general use. Learn more: Domain lifecycle What is a domain registrar? Answering 12 web domain-related questions you’re probably too shy to ask What happens after you register a domain Registering a domain is only the starting point. Once it's yours, it's time to put it to work by connecting it to your website or email service. This is done through DNS settings, which act like a map telling the internet where to find you. If you're using a website builder, this step is usually handled for you. If not, you can manually update your nameservers or DNS records to get everything connected. Next, lock down ownership basics. Turn on auto-renew so you don’t lose the domain by accident and enable domain privacy to keep your contact details out of public records. Many domains are lost because renewal emails went to an outdated address or payment failed. Taking five minutes to confirm renewal settings can save you from expensive recovery fees later. Lastly, take a moment to learn where to manage your domain. You should know how to update DNS, change contact info and review renewal dates. Treat your domain like a long-term asset, not a one-time purchase. Domain ownership and management Registering a domain gives you the exclusive right to use it, but only for the period you’ve paid for. Most domains are registered for one to ten years and ownership is maintained through timely renewals. If you renew on time, nothing changes. If you don’t, the domain doesn’t disappear instantly. It usually enters a short grace period, then a redemption phase where recovery gets more expensive, and finally it can be released back to the public. Active domain name management is key to keeping ownership intact. This means tracking expiration dates, enabling auto-renew and knowing exactly where your domain is registered. Many domains are lost simply because renewal emails were missed or went to an outdated inbox. Management also includes DNS control, transfers and registrar changes. You should know how to update name servers, lock your domain to prevent unauthorized transfers and move it if pricing or service isn’t working for you. Domain security and potential risks Domains are a common target for bad actors because they can unlock your website email and brand trust all at once. Your biggest risk is account security. If someone gets into your registrar account through a weak password reused credentials or a hacked email they can change your DNS settings redirect traffic or even transfer the domain away from you. Recovering your domain after a takeover is a long process. It can involve identity verification registrar disputes and working with registries. While this is happening your website and email might be offline or misused. If you didn't have the right security steps in place you may not get your domain back at all. Your registration details can also be a hidden risk. Incorrect or outdated contact info can block renewals prevent transfers and cause you to fail ownership checks. Many registrars use email verification for important actions. If that email address doesn't work you can lose control without even knowing it. Transferring a domain later You’re not stuck with one registrar forever. Domains can usually be transferred after they’ve been registered for 60 days as long as they’re unlocked and you have the authorization code. Transfers are common when people consolidate services, find better renewal pricing or move their site to a new platform. The process is simple but time-sensitive. Transfers typically take a few days and require approval from both registrars. During this time, your website and email usually stay active, but mistakes like expired domains or incorrect contact emails can cause delays. Before you transfer, check renewal dates and fees. Some registrars add a year to your registration during transfer while others don’t. Planning ahead helps you avoid downtime and unexpected costs. Buying a domain that’s already taken If your ideal domain is unavailable it doesn’t always mean it’s gone for good. Many registered domains aren’t actively used and you can get them through the aftermarket. These domains are sold by their current owners often at higher prices based on demand length or keyword value. Before buying do your research. Check how the domain was previously used confirm it hasn’t been associated with spam or penalties and understand its true market value. Prices can range from reasonable to extremely high so you need to know when to walk away. In many cases a smart alternative name or different extension can perform just as well without the risk or cost. The goal isn’t owning the “perfect” domain at any price it’s choosing one that supports your brand and growth without creating unnecessary friction. Learn more: How to check if a domain name is available How to check domain authority Free domain name registration Here are a couple of ways to get a free domain name: Register a free subdomain . A subdomain is a prefix on a domain name that connects independently functioning sites. Certain hosting platforms and site builders offer users a fully-functioning website for free with a customized subdomain. For example, if you're learning how to build a website with Wix AI website builder , you can publish it for free using a URL like this: username.wixsite.com/siteaddress . Take advantage of free web hosting . Several hosting sites offer free customized domain registration with purchase, giving you a professional online presence without the cost. How much does a domain cost? While you can get a domain for free, you may want to purchase one instead. A free domain will contain a designated prefix of the registrar, which is best if you’re establishing an online presence or only temporarily need a website. If you want your website to professionally stand out and grow with your brand, however, then invest in a domain name. With Wix, the cost of a domain name depends on several factors, including: The plan you purchase Domain extension Local currency Local VAT laws However, all Wix premium plans come with a domain for one year, which otherwise cost between $14 and $39 a month. After a year, you can renew your domain for pricing plans anywhere between $13.95 and $15.95 a year. You can read more about domain name costs in detail, to understand what’s right for you and your business. Learn more: How much does a domain name cost Domain extension Typical use Starting price for 1 year at WIx Availability .com Commercial businesses, personal brands $9.90 Highly popular, often limited .org Nonprofits, charities, open communities $14.95 Moderately available .net Tech companies, networking services $14.95 More available than .com .co Startups, entrepreneurs, modern brands $30.95 Good availability . co.uk UK-based businesses or audiences $14.95 Widely used in the UK .de Germany-based businesses or audiences $14.95 Widely used in Germany .shop eCommerce stores, retail businesses $45.95 Generally good availability .online General online presence, portfolios, blogs $36.00 Generally good availability .biz Businesses and commercial use $15.95 Alternative to .com for businesses .info Informational sites, resources $16.95 Good for informational content .tech Technology startups, projects $40.00 Trending with tech-focused businesses The information presented in this table is true as of January 19th, 2026 unless mentioned otherwise. In general, some other factors to consider that can impact the cost of a domain include auto-renew costs, privacy and protection costs and transferring domains. For example, you can also purchase a domain that already exists from another person or business. This is why having a desirable domain name can be good for your bottom line—if you ever want to sell it, you can make significant money. For example, in 2010, CarInsurance.com was sold for $49.7 million as one of the ten most expensive domain names in the world . Domain name and email hosting Domain registration and email hosting are separate services, but many providers bundle them. Email hosting lets you create addresses like info@yourdomain.com, with features such as webmail access, spam filtering, virus protection and email forwarding. Bundling domain and email hosting can simplify setup and management. When choosing a provider, it’s also important to compare domain pricing , as costs can vary depending on the registrar, extension and registration length. With a website builder like Wix you can easily connect your domain and business email  for a professional business website and streamlined brand building experience. Learn more: Does Wix have email for my business? Legal considerations when registering a domain Choosing a domain comes with legal responsibilities. Domains can create conflicts with trademarks, copyrights or local regulations if you’re not careful. Understanding these rules protects your website, prevents disputes and keeps your domain fully under your control. Trademarks and intellectual property Before you register a domain, do a quick trademark check. Even if a domain is available it could still infringe on another brand or product in your industry. A good place to start is your country’s trademark database. Remember to look for similar names not just exact matches. If you use a name that clashes with someone else’s trademark you could end up in a legal battle and lose your domain. Copyright considerations Steer clear of any copyrighted names, slogans or logos. This means staying away from famous phrases found in books, movies or software. Even short phrases can be protected if they’re unique to another brand. Stick to original names for your domain to avoid legal headaches and keep your site fully under your control. Accurate registration information ICANN needs your domain registration to have the right contact info, like your name, address, email and phone number. If things are out of date or wrong, you might run into trouble renewing your site, moving it or winning a dispute. Understanding registrar policies Each registrar has its own set of rules for things like renewals, transfers and domain locks. Give these terms of service a quick read so you’re always in the loop on how your domain is handled. We recommend turning on auto-renew and privacy protection—it’s an easy way to secure your ownership and keep your personal info hidden from public WHOIS records. Domain disputes and UDRP If a company claims your domain infringes on their trademark you might face a Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) claim. A UDRP is a process for settling trademark disputes and can force a transfer or cancellation of your domain. If this happens to you acting quickly with the right documents and understanding the process will help you keep it. Local regulations Country-specific domains (.uk, .de, .ca) often have eligibility rules. Some require proof of residency or business registration. Check local rules before registering to make sure your domain remains valid and avoid losing it unexpectedly. Avoiding cybersquatting Never register a domain just to resell it to another company. Cybersquatting is illegal and can lead to lawsuits, fines and forced domain transfer. Focus on choosing names that align with your brand, project or purpose to stay compliant and avoid legal issues. How to register a domain name FAQ Can I register a domain name for free? Some domain services provide free domain name registration. However you'll then have limited control over ownership of the name, and you may have to accept advertising and other conditions in exchange for a free name. How much does domain name registration cost? It varies between providers. Wix premium plans come with a domain for one year, which otherwise cost between $14 and $39 a month. After a year, you can renew your domain for pricing plans anywhere between $13.95 and $15.95 a year. How to register my domain name? Choose a domain registrar, the purchase and pricing plan you want, then choose your name. Can I register and own a domain name for forever? Generally, no. Registering a domain name does't constitute ownership of that name, it generally means you're renting it for an agreed period and it will need renewing every set number of years, according to the contract between you and your domain registrar or website builder. How to register a domain name for free? With Wix you can register a domain name for free with a paid plan, or use another free domain registrar. How to register a domain name online? To register a domain name online, you'll need to use an online domain registrar, like Wix and then follow the steps provided for registration. Can I permanently buy a domain name? No, it's not possible to permanently buy and own a domain name. They work on a leasing arrangement. They longest they can be registered for at a time is ten years and most are renewable every 1-2 years. ICANN sets the ten year limit to prevent individuals or businesses buying and hoarding domain names. 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. How long do you own a domain name for? No one ever owns a domain name. They can be registered, aka leased. The maximum they can be leased for at one time is ten years. What makes a domain name valid? To be valid a domain name must meet naming protocols and be unregistered. For example, it can contain letters (English) and numbers but not special characters. It should include a recognized domain extension. Should I register my domain with an eCommerce hosting solution? If you’re planning to start an online store, consider registering your domain with an eCommerce hosting solution . This can streamline the setup process, ensuring compatibility with tools like inventory management and payment processing, while also offering a unified solution for your business. What's the easiest way to register a domain? The easiest way to register a domain, is to do it while you're building your website. If you're creating a site with a website builder you can do a domain name search, pick your name and domain extension and register it in minutes.

Ready to let your work shine? Build your portfolio →   A great marketing portfolio is one of the most effective tools for advancing your career, and creating one is easier than you think. Forget about attaching files to emails or sending clunky PDFs. Building a portfolio website gives you a professional way to present your work and skills all in one place. Portfolios aren't just for designers or artists. For marketers, they offer a powerful way to show how you think and what you can achieve. This guide will walk you through what to include in your marketing portfolio and provide inspiring examples to help you create a site that gets you noticed. Learn more: How to make a portfolio Showcasing your talent should be easy. With Wix’s portfolio builder, you can create a professional, eye-catching portfolio that shows your best work in just a few clicks. Wix’s customizable templates and easy-to-use tools let you present your skills with confidence–leaving a lasting impression on anyone who visits your site. TL;DR: how to create a marketing portfolio A marketing portfolio is a collection of work samples that showcase a marketer's skills, experience and accomplishments. It can be used to apply for new jobs, attract new clients or simply demonstrate one's expertise in the field. Include a short bio, resume, contact info and a few strong work samples with explanations, data and testimonials. Even if you’re just starting, mock projects, volunteer work or freelance gigs can help you build a solid foundation. Use a portfolio builder like Wix to create a clean, professional site fast. You’ll get customizable templates, mobile-friendly layouts and AI tools to help organize your work. What should a marketing portfolio look like? Portfolio basics How to do it Pro tip Short bio Write 2–3 sentences about your background, interests and what drives your work Add a mission statement that reflects your values and focus Resume Include a clear, updated resume with key roles, skills and achievements Highlight results using numbers and outcomes Contact info Add a contact page, email address, social links and a simple contact form Make it easy to find—also include it on your About page and footer Work samples Pick 3–5 of your best projects with strong visuals and real results Prioritize work with measurable impact or creative solutions Process explanations For each project, explain the goals, your role, the strategy and the results Use bullet points or short paragraphs to keep it scannable Testimonials Ask past clients or team members for 1–2 sentence quotes about working with you Place next to relevant work to build trust Awards and recognition List any industry awards, press mentions or certifications Use logos or badges to make it visual Printable version Create a simplified PDF with a cover page, resume and top work samples Keep it short and brand it with your logo or personal style Learn more: Best portfolio website builders Marketing portfolio examples Portfolio websites   Web portfolios   How to create a marketing portfolio Here’s how to build a marketing portfolio—the type of website that presents your work in the best light and captures the attention of your audience: Choose an online platform Create a compelling homepage Design a strong About page Showcase your best samples Explain your work process Make yourself easy to contact Regularly update your marketing portfolio 01. Choose an online platform Pick an online platform that lets your marketing portfolio look sharp and professional without extra hassle. Choose one with customizable free website themes designed for marketers, so you can easily showcase projects, results and skills in a clear, organized layout. Make sure it loads fast and works smoothly on phones, tablets and desktops, so visitors get a great experience every time. A convenient way to get started with your online portfolio is to create a website for free using Wix. The entire process of learning how to build a website , from inception to publication, is completely free, and there’s a wide selection of portfolio templates that you can customize according to your needs. You've also got AI-powered portfolio tools, including an AI website builder and tools for auto-arranging your photos into projects. Test drive the AI website builder. Building a portfolio with Wix includes a domain name , secure web hosting and robust security infrastructure . 02. Create a compelling homepage As you build your portfolio website, remember your homepage sets the tone. It’s the first impression people get of your work, so it needs to communicate who you are and what you do in just a sentence or two. Think of it like a professional model portfolio —immediate impact, no fluff. Check out these web design portfolio examples to get a feel for how others introduce themselves clearly and confidently. Keep the layout clean. Avoid walls of text, jarring color combinations or too many visuals competing for attention. Your homepage isn’t where you show everything—it’s where you point people in the right direction. Make sure it links clearly to your portfolio page and work samples. You’ll also want to guide visitors with simple calls-to-action near the top of the page. A button like “Contact me” or “See my work” helps turn curiosity into connection. A good homepage doesn’t beg for attention—it channels it. Learn more: How to make a UGC portfolio How to make an interview portfolio How to make a communications portfolio How to make an engineering portfolio 03. Design a strong About page Don’t forget to include an About page as well. This is where you can place your professional bio , resume and links to your LinkedIn page and other relevant social media profiles. This page should summarize your professional experience and highlight your achievements in a way that sets you apart from others in the field. Ideally, it will explain how you got to where you are today and the purpose behind your work. You can also include a handful of customer testimonials to add credibility to your claims and for "proof points". 04. Showcase your best samples Here comes the meat of your marketing portfolio: your work samples. Begin by creating a separate page titled Portfolio or Work. This will be the canvas for presenting your most successful projects. Most likely, you’ll have several projects to choose from. Rather than attempt to showcase all of them, carefully select the ones that best represent what you’re capable of. Remember, quality is better than quantity here. First, site visitors won’t want to sift through dozens of samples in search of your best work. Second, an in-depth analysis of 5 projects is far more compelling than a minimal commentary on 50. If you’re stuck on which samples to include, consider the following: Prioritize examples with great results: As you scan past projects, start with the ones that delivered the strongest outcomes. Look for measurable data and impressive metrics, anything that shows impact. For example, “increased organic traffic by 60%” or “grew membership by 25%.” Include specific numbers wherever possible to highlight measurable results. Showcase your most innovative ideas: Perhaps you helped orchestrate a project launch, managed a successful rebrand or introduced a new marketing channel to a client. Providing such an example in your portfolio can emphasize your creativity, outside-the-box thinking and project management skills. Highlight an integrated marketing campaign: If you’ve successfully pulled off a complex digital marketing project—for instance, a campaign that integrated website content, social media content, email marketing and more—you should absolutely highlight that in your marketing portfolio. This will show that you are a strategic thinker and know how to target different audiences across a wide range of channels. Add case studies for each project To give each sample depth, create a short case study using the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Explain the project’s goals, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges you faced and the final results. Concrete numbers and insights help readers understand how you work and the value you add. Include the client or industry and the tools you used in each case study. Add visuals Strengthen each sample with visuals like images, videos, screenshots or infographics. These make your work more engaging and easier to understand—especially when displaying complex campaigns or creative assets. 05. Explain your work process Selecting your work samples might be the trickiest part of creating your marketing portfolio, but it’s not the final step. To do justice to your experience, you’ll need to explain the context behind each project. You can place these explanations side-by-side examples of your work, or share case studies and other insights on your website’s blog. As you explain your work process, be sure to include the following elements: The goals behind each project Your role and responsibilities The challenges you faced and how you overcame them An overview of the process from start to finish The final outputs and results 06. Make yourself easy to contact Finally, encourage visitors to reach out by placing your contact details in various places across the site. Anticipate where people might look for your contact details, and place the information there. This includes the website’s footer and the About page, as well as a dedicated Contact page. It’s also important to include a contact form on your site. This way, visitors won’t need to copy and paste your email address on a separate tab, but can instead send a message directly through your website.   Make sure to share your portfolio link widely and include it on resumes, professional profiles and email signatures. 07. Regularly update your marketing portfolio Your marketing portfolio should grow with your career. As you take on new projects and build your expertise, make it a habit to update your portfolio regularly. This keeps your work relevant and highlights your current skills. Every time you complete a project or hit a major milestone, add it to your portfolio. On the flip side, if older projects no longer reflect your abilities, remove or refresh them. Regular updates keep your portfolio relevant and ready to impress potential clients or employers whenever opportunity knocks. Updating your portfolio at least once or twice a year ensures it reflects your most recent accomplishments and skills. By consistently refining and improving your portfolio, you'll ensure it remains a true representation of who you are as a marketing professional and what you can achieve. Why you need a marketing portfolio As Hani Safe, product lead (Showcase) at Wix puts it: "Portfolios are ideal for professionals, individuals or businesses who want to showcase their work in a visually engaging manner to attract clients or enhance their online presence." A marketing portfolio is a powerful tool for any marketer wanting to highlight skills and achievements. Paired with a strong resume , it can give your career a serious boost. A resume tells what you do, but a portfolio shows how you do it. That makes your experience more convincing to recruiters and clients. People are more interested when you back up your claims with real results. Whether your focus is SEO, advertising, social media or any other marketing area, your portfolio is where you prove your expertise. Putting your professional portfolio  online shows you mean business and builds trust in your skills. Beyond showcasing your work, a marketing portfolio inspires potential clients or employers. When they see clear, compelling examples, they can picture the impact you’ll bring to their projects. What to include in a marketing portfolio As you start to piece together your marketing portfolio, here’s a quick checklist of the elements you should include: Short bio Your bio is often the first real impression people get, so keep it sharp and personal. Write a short paragraph that explains what kind of marketing you do, who you do it for and why it matters to you. This is your chance to position yourself—not just as someone with experience but as someone with a clear point of view. If you specialize in branding for wellness startups or drive paid growth for eCommerce brands, say it. Add a mission statement if it fits your style. For example, “I help purpose-driven brands turn values into results through clear messaging and targeted campaigns.” A strong bio works like the intro on a professional model portfolio: it sets the tone and helps people understand who they’re dealing with. Resume Instead of linking to a static PDF, turn your resume into an interactive section of your site. Highlight roles that connect directly to your best work and explain the value you brought to each one. Include your job titles, the companies or clients you worked with and 1–2 outcome-based bullets for each. For instance, “Launched paid media campaigns for a boutique fashion brand, increasing clickthrough rates by 47%.” Mention tools you’re comfortable with (like Google Ads, Klaviyo or Webflow) and certifications that help validate your skills. A downloadable PDF is still a good backup—especially for recruiters—but let the live version do the talking first. Contact details Make it easy for people to reach you no matter where they are on your site. A contact page is a must—it should include your name, email, a short message form and links to relevant platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram. If your work is visual or campaign-focused, an Instagram feed can be just as compelling as a project gallery. You can also add a simple contact bar or sticky footer to every page with a “Let’s talk” button. Samples of your best work This section is where your portfolio earns its keep. Create a dedicated Work or Projects page with 3 to 5 strong samples. Each project should include visuals, a short intro and a breakdown of the challenge, strategy and results. For example, one marketer might show how they led a rebrand for a local gym chain, developing new messaging and a social media rollout that grew membership by 25% in two months. Another might highlight a lead-generation funnel that turned a cold email sequence into a 10% conversion rate. Use performance data wherever possible and keep each story focused. Visitors should be able to understand what you did and why it worked—fast. Testimonials Social proof is one of the strongest assets on a portfolio site. Include short, specific quotes from clients, collaborators or past managers. A testimonial like “They helped us pivot our digital strategy mid-campaign and still hit our KPIs” is far more powerful than generic praise. Place testimonials alongside the projects they relate to or give them their own section with names, roles and photos if you can. If you’ve done work for recognizable brands say so. It builds trust fast and adds weight to your story. Awards and recognition Awards, certifications and press mentions reinforce your authority without you having to say much. If you’ve earned a HubSpot certificate, completed Meta Blueprint or been featured in a marketing roundup, include those here. Visuals like badges or logos make this section easier to scan and remember. You can also add quick blurbs like, “Named Top Freelancer on Upwork in 2023” or “Featured in DesignRush’s top 10 portfolio websites.” Just like in a professional model portfolio, where brands or editorials add instant credibility, these elements do the same for marketers. Cover page and table of contents For interviews, proposals or client meetings, a downloadable version of your portfolio can still be useful. Create a clean cover page with your business name , role, website and optional logo . Then include a simple, clickable table of contents linking to each section or project. This works well for people who prefer PDFs or need something they can review offline. It also shows that you’ve thought about how your work gets presented—not just online but across different formats. In short, it says you’re organized, professional and ready to pitch. Marketing portfolio examples Once you've selected the elements to include in your marketing portfolio, take a look at these examples to jumpstart your inspiration: 01. Steve Wolf Designs This graphic design and branding studio  builds meaningful brands through design. To generate immediate interest in their work, they place images of their projects front and center on the homepage. Using their online marketing portfolio, they’re able to increase the visibility of their brand and capture the attention of their clients. Looking to start a marketing business ? Our guide has you covered. 02. Taylor Engle Anderson This portfolio site  from Taylor Engle Anderson showcases her work as a writer, editor and marketing and PR specialist. The homepage introduces her professional identity and invites visitors to explore her storytelling, while the site is organized into sections like “Work,” client testimonials, PR offerings, a blog with insights on writing and marketing and opportunities to collaborate or shop. Visitors can view her services, read her blog posts and learn more about her approach to brand storytelling and public relations. Creating a marketing portfolio without experience If you don't have any experience in marketing, you can still build a marketing portfolio. Here are a few tips: Start with personal projects. If you don't have any experience working with clients, you can start by creating marketing materials for yourself or your friends and family. This could include designing a website, creating social media content or writing blog posts. Looking for inspiration? Think about exploring these gestalt principles to get started. Create mock projects : Mock projects are hypothetical campaigns or strategies designed to showcase your skills and creativity. For example, create a branding campaign for a known company or a content strategy for a fictional business. Label them as mock projects to stay transparent while highlighting your abilities. Volunteer your services. Many nonprofits and small businesses are looking for volunteers to help with their marketing efforts, which helps you gain experience and build your portfolio. Take on freelance projects. Once you have some experience, you can start to take on freelance marketing projects. This gives you the opportunity to work with different clients and build a more diverse portfolio. Contribute to open-source projects. There are many open-source marketing projects that you can contribute to. This is a great way to gain experience working on real-world projects and to collaborate with other marketers. Participate in marketing competitions. There are many marketing competitions that you can participate in, helping you test your skills and get feedback from other marketers. Learn how to make a PR portfolio   that wins over clients. Marketing portfolio best practices Here are some best practices for creating a marketing portfolio: Tailor your portfolio to your target audience: What skills and experience are they looking for? What types of work samples would they find most impressive? Choose high-quality work samples: Your portfolio should only include your best work. Take the time to edit and polish your work samples before you add them to your portfolio. Tell a story with your portfolio: Each work sample should tell the story of a successful marketing campaign or project. Be sure to explain the goals of the project, the strategies you used and the results you achieved. Use visuals: Use visuals to make your portfolio more engaging and easy to skim. Add images, videos, infographics and intentional color combinations to bring your work to life and show your creative range. Tip: Include images in WebP file format for better website performance. Make it easy to navigate: Your portfolio should be easy to navigate and use. Visitors should be able to quickly and easily find the information they are looking for. Keep it up-to-date: Be sure to update your portfolio regularly with new work samples and accomplishments. Make it mobile-friendly: Design your portfolio with mobile users in mind. With so many people browsing on their smartphones, a responsive, mobile-friendly layout is essential for accessibility and a smooth user experience. Types of marketing portfolios Building your marketing portfolio is all about finding the best way to share what you bring to the table. The format you choose can make a big impact. This chart breaks down different types of marketing portfolios, what they include and who they're great for. Use it to craft a portfolio that truly reflects your skills and gets you noticed: Portfolio type What it includes Perfect for Personal marketing Brings personal achievements to life with case studies, testimonials, certifications or individual projects Freelancers and independent marketers Agency Showcases a range of client campaigns featuring results, client feedback and industry highlights Marketing or creative agencies Creative Features standout visuals and written work like ad designs, videos and social media content Graphic designers, content creators or ad specialists Social media Spotlights posts, campaigns, performance insights and audience engagement across platforms Social media managers or strategists Content marketing Highlights articles, blogs, SEO performance and project calendars for a content-rich portfolio Writers, bloggers and content strategists Product marketing Includes product details, launch strategies and connections with target audiences Product marketers Event marketing Shares event imagery, participant numbers, collaborations and media coverage Event marketers Performance-driven Breaks down numbers with metrics, growth statistics and ROI from analytics, paid ads or SEO efforts Marketers who focus on analytics or performance strategy How to create a marketing portfolio FAQ Is a marketing portfolio really necessary? In most cases, a marketing portfolio is crucial. It showcases your skills, accomplishments and creativity to potential employers or clients. A well-designed and planned portfolio demonstrates practical application of marketing strategies , campaigns and results, giving credibility to your capabilities. It's a powerful tool for highlighting your unique marketing approach and making a memorable impression in a competitive job landscape. How to create a content marketing portfolio? To create a compelling content marketing portfolio, build up a diverse range of writing projects to fully showcase your writing, strategy and results. Include case studies with measurable outcomes, highlight your ability to engage audiences and emphasize your understanding of various platforms such as social media. Use clear visuals, concise descriptions and provide context for each project. Check your portfolio reflects your storytelling ability and capacity to drive meaningful marketing results through strategic content creation. How to make a digital marketing portfolio? Build a standout digital marketing portfolio by featuring diverse campaigns and results that you've had a had in. Showcase your expertise in SEO, social media, email and analytics. Include case studies with measurable metrics and highlight skills in campaign planning, execution and optimization. Use a visually appealing format, incorporate visuals and data and demonstrate a deep understanding of digital platforms for marketing. Provide clear project descriptions and outcomes to illustrate your impact in the dynamic digital marketing landscape. How to make a marketing portfolio for beginners? Start with a portfolio builder, like Wix . Select the right portfolio template and get creating. Portfolio builders take care of all of your hosting and domain needs, as well as site security and reliability. How many pages should a marketing portfolio have? There's no one-size-fits-all answer to how many pages a marketing portfolio should have. The optimal length depends on several factors: Experience level: if you're an entry-level marketer, 1-3 concise pages of your best work should be enough. If you're at a mid-management level, consider 3-5 pages to demonstrate your experience. For a director or senior executive, 5-7 pages should be able to represent the impact you can make. Position type : if you're a specialist with a focus marketing niche, you'll want a few pages to really show off your skills. As a general market, you'll generally need a page per marketing discipline you have experience in. For example, one page to demonstrating your social media experience, another to show your SEO work. Prioritize focusing on the quality and impact of your work rather than sheer number of pages in your marketing portfolio. Each page should tell a compelling story and showcase your value contribution to past projects or campaigns regardless of how may you include. How much does it cost to create a marketing portfolio? You can create a portfolio for free, with a portfolio builder like Wix. Or opt for a paid plan, starting from $17 a month including domain name registration. If you choose to build a portfolio with a web developer or designer it can cost from several hundred dollars to several thousands not including hosting and domain name registration.

The perfect domain is just a click away:   claim your domain →  Buying an expired domain name can give you a head start when you create a website , thanks to existing backlinks, search history and potential residual traffic. Instead of starting from scratch, you’re building on a domain that search engines and users may already recognize. For marketers and business owners, this approach can shorten the time it takes to gain visibility, helping new websites establish authority faster than launching on a brand-new domain. 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 buy expired domains Expired domains can jump-start a new website by carrying existing backlinks, authority and residual traffic. Short on time? 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Have your payment method updated and ready to go to avoid losing a great asset due to a technical error. Learn more: types of domains . 05. Transfer and build After winning the auction or completing the purchase, you will need to transfer the domain to your preferred registrar. This process can take a few days to a week, depending on where the domain was held previously. You will receive an "auth code" or EPP code to authorize the move. Learn more: How to transfer a domain name . What are custom domains? Register and activate your expired domain with Wix Buying an expired domain is a smart strategy for those looking to bypass the initial struggle of building website authority. It offers a unique advantage, but due diligence is non-negotiable. Don't rush the vetting process: a bad domain is worse than no domain at all. Once you’ve identified the right expired domain, the next step is registering and securing it properly. Wix simplifies domain registration for your business by bringing search, purchase and setup into one streamlined flow, so you don’t need to juggle multiple providers or configurations. Additionally, Wix offers easy domain name search , powered by real-time availability checks. You can immediately see whether an expired domain is available, backorder-ready or already taken, helping you move fast when timing matters. If you’re still exploring your domain name options, Wix's AI-powered domain name generator  can help uncover available names you may not have considered, making the process simple even for first-time site owners. Additionally, domain security is handled automatically, as Wix ensures secure domain registration with SSL certification, activating HTTPS by default once your site goes live. With Wix offering quick domain registration, you can move from purchase to publishing without manual SSL setup or third-party certificates, giving you a secure foundation from day one. You also be interested: SSL certificate providers How much does an SSL certificate cost? What are custom domains? How to buy expired domains FAQ Are expired domains safe to use for SEO? Yes, but only if they are vetted correctly. An expired domain with a clean history and strong backlinks provides a powerful SEO boost. However, a domain that was used for spam or has a Google penalty attached to it can make ranking nearly impossible. Always perform a deep audit of the domain's history and link profile before purchasing. How much does an expired domain cost? The price varies wildly. Some expired domains can be picked up for the standard registration fee (around $10-$15) if no one else wants them. However, domains with high authority, short names or valuable keywords often go to auction and can sell for hundreds, thousands or even millions of dollars depending on the demand. Can I change the niche of an expired domain? You can, but it is not recommended if your goal is to preserve SEO value. The backlinks pointing to the domain are usually relevant to its previous topic. If you buy a domain about "gardening" and turn it into a "crypto" blog, those existing gardening links lose their relevance and value. It is best to stick to a niche similar to the domain's original purpose.

Get started by: Getting a domain →  | Creating a website → As you start building a website , you'll encounter two terms: domain hosting and web hosting . While sometimes used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. Knowing the difference between what a domain is  and web hosting is key to getting your site online. Domain hosting, or domain registration, lets you choose a unique name for your website—your web address—so visitors can find you online. Web hosting stores all your site’s files and data on a server. When someone visits your domain, the server delivers your live website. This article compares domain hosting vs web hosting to help you make informed decisions for your website. Your domain is more than just a web address; it’s the first impression of your online brand. With Wix, finding the perfect domain name is easy. Wix helps you secure the name for your business, blog, portfolio or any online presence, so you can focus on bringing your project to life. Ready to claim yours? TL;DR: domain hosting vs web hosting Before you get started with your website, it helps to know the difference between domain hosting and web hosting. Your domain is your website’s address, while hosting is the space where your site lives. Both are essential parts of your website infrastructure . Feature Domain hosting Web hosting Purpose Gives your website a unique name (your web address) Stores all your website files and content on a server Role in website infrastructure Lets people find your site online Delivers your live website when visitors access your domain Required? Yes Yes, your site won’t work without it Difference between domain name and web hosting Domain names  and web hosting are often purchased together, yet they serve different purposes. Simply put, web hosting is where your website physically resides, while a domain name is its digital residence. Web hosting houses your website files, while a domain name acts as the gateway to access that storage. When creating a website , you need to purchase a domain name first, but you can have a domain name without having a website yet. Learn more: Does Wix host websites? What is a domain name? A domain name acts as your website's internet  address, allowing visitors to easily reach your site. When users type this text into their browser's Universal Resource Locator (URL)  bar, they can access your site without the hassle of memorizing website IP (Internet Protocol) addresses . Your website's true address is a compound numerical IP, such as 192.0.2.1. Thanks to the Domain Name System (DNS) , users can quickly type in friendly domain names to find desired websites, a process known as DNS lookup. When a visitor enters your domain name into a web browser , it gets translated into a server IP address. The server then delivers your site files to the user's browser, displaying them as a regular web page . Purpose of a domain Branding and identity: Your brand's online presence is greatly influenced by your domain name. It's your chance to pick a name that resonates with your business or organization, creating a strong association between your domain and brand. Professionalism and credibility: Opting for a custom domain name, like  yourbusinessname.com elevates the professionalism and credibility of your website, fostering trust with your audience. Learn more about what what custom domains are . Email address:  By using your domain name, you can set up business email addresses  like, info@yourbusinessname.com and enhance your professional image and ensure brand consistency in your communication. Ready to get a website domain name ? Get started with Wix today. Types of domain extensions Domain names consist of two parts, separated by a dot: the Top Level Domain (TLD)  and the Second-Level Domain (SLD). Your brand name or chosen word forms the first part or SLD, allowing a mix of letters and numbers. The second part, the TLD, is referred to as a domain extension. For example, in the case of wix.com , the second-level domain is wix  and .com  is the TLD.  TLDs hold the highest position on the DNS hierarchy. The web hosts hundreds of TLDs, managed and updated by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). IANA classifies TLDs into three main categories based on their purpose and location, including: gTLDs (Generic Top-Level Domains) :  These are the most common domain names suitable for any website. Examples include the familiar .com , .org and .net , along with unique ones like .wiki , .biz  and .tech . sTLDs (Sponsored Top-Level Domains):  Reserved for specific organizations and groups, like .gov for government sites, .edu for educational institutions and .post for postal services. ccTLDs (Country Code Top-Level Domains) : Representing specific territories or locations with ISO codes. For instance, .us for the USA, .in  for India, .es for Spain, .id for Indonesia and . co.uk  for the United Kingdom. Learn more with this guide to domain extensions . How to get a domain name When setting up a domain for your website, start by registering it. Domain registration reserves a name on the internet for a specific period. Typically, you renew the license annually, but you have the option to prepay for up to a decade for the domain to be in your name. Companies that handle domain name registrations are known as domain registrars. Before proceeding with domain registration, check the availability of your custom domain. Use a  domain name search  tool to find available names. The domain checker displays your chosen domain's availability, different domain extensions and prices. In case your preferred domain is already taken, the domain checker proposes alternative options. If the domain you desire is unavailable, consider using a domain name generator  for suggestions. Key points to consider when choosing a domain name  for your website: Consider your website's purpose. Are you aiming to create a business site, a personal page or an organization's online presence? Opt for a memorable, concise domain name. Avoid lengthy names and steer clear of similar or trademarked domains. Avoid using numbers in domain names. As Robert Roth, CEO of Quote For Solar Group, reflects: "Today, I'd tell someone who feels stuck that your domain isn't just about being clever or grabbing what's available, it's about alignment. Does it capture the way you want to be known? Will it grow with you as your vision expands? Your brand is going to evolve as you scale impact and income, and your domain should feel like a foundation you can build on rather than a constraint you're forced to explain away." What is web hosting? Your website consists of files, folders and data. To let visitors see your site, this info must move from your computer to a web server  they can access. Web hosting servers step in here. They hold your website files for a fee and grant visitor access. When someone enters your domain name, your web hosting provider sends the content. Without this service, your files are homeless, making your domain like a disconnected phone number in a directory. Your site lacks online availability without web hosting. Think of hosting a website  like the space you rent for your business—it's just the space itself, no frills. Just as it doesn't come with shelves for your products, a web hosting account doesn't automatically give you a site to sell your products. Purpose of web hosting Server resources: Web hosting gives your website the processing power, memory and disk space it needs to handle web traffic. The hosting company manages these resources to keep your site running smoothly for visitors. Data backup and security: Web hosting services often come with backup systems and website security  measures to safeguard your website’s data. Regular backups protect your files in case of data loss, while security features defend against unauthorized access and malware. When you choose a hosting service, you're entrusting the provider to set up, maintain and run your physical servers. Beyond that, they can offer extra support like website backup, security and performance enhancements. This allows you time to focus on the core functions of your website. Wix provides secure and reliable web hosting with 24/7 customer support , ensuring your website is always available to visitors. Types of website hosting and pricing There are various types of web hosting  options available. Depending on the type you choose, you'll have access to different tools. Some hosting services are designed to keep your website up and running smoothly, even if you're not a tech expert. Others provide more control over the servers, requiring a skilled tech team.  Here are a few common types of hosting and web hosting costs  as you consider the right model for your business website . Free hosting  Some hosting services offer free plans, perfect for creating a personal website or starting a blog . With free web hosting, you typically have limited storage, bandwidth, features and control over your website. This may include ads on your site and a less professional domain name (e.g., yourname.freehosting.com ). Expected cost: $0/month Shared hosting Shared hosting is the most common type of hosting for small businesses and personal websites. With shared hosting, multiple websites share a single physical server and have a set amount of storage and resources. This makes it a more budget-friendly option, but may result in slower loading times if one of the sites on the server receives high traffic. Expected cost: $3-$15/month Dedicated hosting Dedicated hosting hosts each website on its own server, giving you full control over a physical server. You have complete access to all resources and can customize the server to meet your website's specific needs. This is often used for large websites with high traffic, specialized requirements and a skilled tech team. It can be more expensive than other types of hosting but provides maximum control and flexibility. Expected cost: $100-$500/month VPS hosting VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting is a hybrid between shared and dedicated hosting. It offers more control than shared hosting, as your website is still hosted on a shared server, but with dedicated resources allocated for your site's use only. This option is perfect for websites with medium-to-high traffic that have outgrown shared hosting but may not require the full capabilities of a dedicated server. It provides resources that are exclusive to you, such as RAM and bandwidth, which can improve the speed and your website performance . It also enhances your data protection by providing an isolated environment, meaning your site won’t be affected if others on the server are compromised. Expected cost: $20-$100/month Cloud hosting Cloud hosting  is a flexible and scalable option that uses a network of virtual servers to host websites. This means your website can use multiple servers as needed, providing unlimited resources and accommodating sudden traffic spikes. It's also more reliable, as if one server goes down, another can pick up the slack. Cloud hosting  is ideal for sites that need high-availability, such as if you choose to build an eCommerce site . It may require a skilled IT team to manage and can be more expensive than other options, but provides maximum site reliability  and scalability .  Expected cost: $0-$300/month Enterprise hosting Enterprise hosting is a more advanced option for large businesses with high-traffic websites. With this type of hosting, your website is hosted on multiple servers to ensure it can handle heavy traffic without crashing. It also provides extra website security  and storage options. The downside is that it can be expensive and requires a dedicated IT team to manage and maintain the servers. Expected cost: See Wix Enterprise  for more information. Email hosting In addition to website hosting, you may want email hosting to have a branded business email address ( yourname@yourwebsite.com ). This allows for a more professional and trustworthy appearance when communicating with customers. Many web hosting providers offer email hosting as an add-on service or included in their plans. It simplifies the process of managing your website by keeping everything in one place. Expected cost: $0-$10/month Managed hosting Just as there can be confusion between domain hosting and web hosting, there also tends to be confusion between shared and managed hosting . The reason it gets confusing is that all types of web hosting, be it shared, dedicated or cloud, can also be managed. With managed hosting, the provider handles all technical tasks associated with server maintenance and updates. This is a good option for those without a dedicated IT team, as it allows them to focus on other aspects of their website. Having managed hosting saves time and frustration when things go wrong. Wix provides a range of hosting options tailored to meet your website's specific needs. Whether it's shared hosting for small businesses or dedicated and VPS hosting for larger websites, we've got you covered. Our reliable, secure hosting ensures your site is always accessible to visitors, with our 24/7 support team ready to help with any technical issues. Remember these key points when choosing a web hosting provider: User-friendliness:  Each web host offers a control panel to manage your web hosting account. Ensure the dashboard is easy to use and packed with useful features. Server speed and uptime:  Opt for a web hosting provider that guarantees fast loading times and excellent uptime  to minimize site downtime. Pricing and plans:  Before buying a hosting plan, consider add-ons and renewal fees that align with your long-term budget. Customer service:  Choose a hosting company with a dependable support team ready to assist you promptly with any technical issues. How a domain name and web hosting work together Domain and hosting are closely connected. The domain name serves as the website address, while web hosting acts as the actual house for your site. Web hosting plays a key role in making your website available to visitors. Keeping both in sync is essential for website creation. Let’s walk through the steps of how to build a website with Wix : Pick your domain name and check its availability using the domain checker. Choose the option that best suits your needs, finalize the order and complete the domain registration. Select a web hosting plan that suits your website’s needs. Use Wix's drag and drop website builder  or AI website builder  to create and customize your site, using our website templates . Publish your site. Learn more: Web host vs domain registrar Advantages of using a domain and hosting service provider To ensure seamless setup, we recommend getting your domain name and web hosting from the same provider. This eliminates the hassle of manual linking and gets you started on your website quickly. Wix provides both domain registration and web hosting, simplifying the process for you. Here are a few more benefits of choosing a domain and web hosting company: Convenience : Domain and web hosting providers give you an all-in-one solution. Easily handle your domain name and hosted services  from one place. Cost-effectiveness : Save with discounts on multi-year services. Enjoy budget-friendly packages covering domain registration and website hosting. Technical support : Get help from expert teams specialized in domain and hosting matters. Security : Trusted providers safeguard your site with SSL  certificates, spam filters, virus scans and firewalls. Backup and recovery : Providers regularly back up your site's files and data to prevent loss from accidents, hacking or hardware issues. Explore domain name pricing and choose a name that works for you and your wallet. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “Wix gives you the flexibility to bring a domain you already own or purchase a new one directly in the platform. Either way, your brand stays consistent, and your audience always knows where to find you.” Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? Domain hosting vs web hosting FAQ Do I need web hosting if I have a domain name? Yes, web hosting is necessary to have a website. Your domain name serves as the address for your site, while web hosting provides the storage and resources needed to make it accessible on the internet. Do I need a domain if I have web hosting? While technically a website can function without a domain name, it is not recommended. A domain name gives your site a professional and branded appearance, making it easier for visitors to find and remember. Do I have to buy a domain name and hosting together? Or can I buy them separately? You can buy a domain name and hosting separately, but it is easier to manage them together from the same provider. Wix offers both services so you can easily connect your domain to your website and manage everything in one place. Can I move my domain name to a different company? Yes, you can transfer your domain name to a different company if needed. However, it is important to research the process and potential fees associated with transferring domains before making a decision.  Overall, it is recommended to keep your domain and hosting services together for simplicity and ease of management. Can I move my website to another web hosting company without changing the domain? Yes, you can transfer your website to another web hosting company without changing your domain name. This process may require some technical knowledge and coordination between the two hosting providers, but it is possible.  Can I change my domain name or move my website to a new domain? Yes, changing your domain name or moving your website to a new domain is possible. However, this process may affect your site's search engine rankings and require technical assistance from your hosting provider. It is important to carefully consider the impact before making any changes to your domain name.  What's a domain host? A domain host is a company that provides services to store and maintain files for websites, making them accessible on the internet. They offer server space, web hosting services and often domain registration. What's a domain host versus a domain owner? A domain owner is the person or entity who has registered and legally owns a domain name. They have the rights to use, sell or transfer the domain. A domain host is a company that provides server space and services to store and make the website accessible online. They manage the technical aspects of keeping the site live.

Get  free website hosting  from Wix today → Website hosting is what makes your website accessible on the internet. It’s the service that stores your site’s files and delivers them to visitors when they type in your web address. Without reliable hosting, even the best-designed website can load slowly, go offline or become vulnerable to security issues. This guide explains what web hosting is, how it works and the main types of hosting available. You’ll also learn how to choose a dependable hosting provider that supports your site as it grows. Build a website with Wix. Wix hosting keeps your website running smoothly and securely from day one. With reliable performance, strong security and built-in tools for SEO, analytics and marketing, your site is ready to grow without limits. Plus 24/7 support means help is always just a click away. TL;DR: Website hosting Web hosting is where your website’s files are kept so people can visit it online. It keeps your site fast, safe and always available and is different from your website’s address. Hosting comes in various types: some are cheap and shared, others give more control, grow with your site or handle the tech for you. When choosing one, look at speed, security, reliability, support and extra features. Wix offers free cloud hosting with tools and easy upgrades to keep your site fast and secure. Learn more: How to open a website What is web hosting? Web hosting is the service that stores your website's files and makes them available on the internet. When someone types your website's domain name into their browser, they're actually reaching out to a specific server —your website's digital "storage unit." This server holds all your website's elements, from text and images to code and videos. It has a unique digital address called an IP address , which users can access by typing your domain name into their web browser . How does web hosting work? Every website starts with files that need a home. When you use a web hosting service, your website’s files are stored on a server, a computer that’s always on and ready to share your content.  When someone types your website address into their browser or clicks a link to your site, their device sends a request to your server. The server then finds the right files and delivers them back so your website appears on their screen. In simple terms, hosting is like renting space on a reliable, always-on server for your website. It makes sure your content is accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time, without you having to manage the technical details yourself. Why is website hosting important? Hosting is a cornerstone of your website's performance and accessibility. Think about it: when people visit your site, they expect quick loading times, high-quality images and a secure environment. Your hosting provider plays a key role in meeting these expectations. A reliable host ensures your website is available to visitors around the clock, so you don't miss out on potential customers, ad revenue or other opportunities. Quality hosting providers also offer advanced security features to help protect your site from cyber threats. They often include backup services so you won't lose all your hard work in case something goes awry. And let's not forget that website speed isn't just about user experience; it also affects your search engine ranking. Google and other search engines favor faster, reliable sites and a good hosting service can help you achieve those faster load times. Web hosting versus domain name Web hosting and domain names are two distinct but interconnected elements that make your website accessible to users. Web hosting focuses on storing your website's files on a server and delivering them over the internet. On the other hand, a domain name serves as your website's online address. It's the name people type into their browsers to find your site, and it signals your server to present your website's content to visitors. Both elements are crucial for establishing an online presence. While you can acquire them separately, many opt for SaaS solutions like Wix, which offers free cloud hosting along with the option to create a custom domain name, simplifying the entire process. Learn more: Web host vs domain registrar The main types of web hosting Choosing the right type of web hosting for your website is a bit like picking the perfect home for your family—it depends on your specific needs and future plans. Factors like your website's size, anticipated traffic and scalability requirements will all play a role. In this section, we'll explore some of the most popular types of hosting and help you determine which might be the best fit for your website. Hosting type What it does Who it’s for and why Shared hosting Your website shares a single server and its resources—storage, bandwidth and processing power—with other sites. Performance can be affected if other sites use too many resources. Small websites, personal blogs or beginners who need an affordable easy-to-set-up option without worrying about technical management. VPS hosting You get a dedicated portion of a physical server with guaranteed resources. You have more control over server settings and can install custom software. Growing websites or small businesses that need better speed, stability and customization than shared hosting allows. Cloud hosting Your site is hosted across a network of servers (“the cloud”) so resources can scale automatically and traffic spikes are handled without downtime. Websites with fluctuating traffic, eCommerce stores or international audiences, because it’s highly reliable, fast and scalable. Dedicated hosting Your website has a full server to itself. You control every aspect of the server from security settings to software, ensuring maximum performance. Large websites, high-traffic eCommerce stores or businesses needing full control and high security. Ideal for sites that can’t risk slowdowns or outages. Reseller hosting You buy server space in bulk and rent portions to other users while hosting your own site. You manage your clients’ sites but don’t handle physical servers. Entrepreneurs or agencies looking to start a hosting business, monetize unused server space or offer hosting as a service to clients. Managed hosting The hosting provider takes care of setup, updates, security, backups and troubleshooting. You focus on running your website rather than technical maintenance. Business owners or anyone without technical expertise who wants a hands-off worry-free hosting experience with strong support and maintenance. Shared hosting Shared hosting is like living in an apartment building where you share resources like water and electricity with your neighbors. In the digital world, this means your website is stored on the same server as multiple other websites. You all share the server's resources, such as storage space, bandwidth and processing power. It's an economical choice, especially for small websites or those just starting out, since the web hosting costs are spread among all the users. However, the catch is that if one website on the server experiences a surge in traffic or has some other issue, it could affect the performance of all the other websites hosted on that server. Think of it like one apartment throwing a loud party; it could be disruptive for the whole building. For an eCommerce site that’s prone to holiday traffic surges, shared hosting is not the best option for this reason. That's why shared hosting is often best for smaller websites with less traffic, where high performance and speed are less critical. VPS hosting VPS hosting, or virtual private server hosting, is like living in a condo complex. You still share a building with other residents, but you own your own space and share fewer resources compared to apartment living, as in shared hosting. In the digital realm, this means you get a designated portion of a physical server, giving you more control and better performance. With VPS hosting, you have your own set of resources like storage, bandwidth and processing power, separate from other users on the same server. This provides a boost in speed and reliability. It's particularly well-suited for websites that have outgrown shared hosting but aren't quite big enough to need their own dedicated server. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to scale resources as needed. If your website starts getting more traffic, you can easily allocate more resources to handle the load. However, VPS hosting is generally more expensive than shared hosting and requires some degree of server management. It's a good option for businesses or websites that need more power, customization and flexibility. Cloud hosting Similar to cloud storage and cloud communications , cloud hosting is like having a house that can magically expand or shrink based on how many people are staying with you. In the tech world, this translates to hosting your website on a network of virtual servers (“the cloud”) rather than on a single physical server. This gives you the ability to easily scale your resources up or down as your website needs change. The major advantage of cloud hosting is its flexibility. Because your site is hosted on multiple servers, if one server fails, another can quickly take over, minimizing any disruptions. When considering the difference between cloud hosting and shared hosting , this is the biggest. As your website grows, cloud hosting can effortlessly adapt to handle increasing traffic without sacrificing performance. Cloud hosting is the best option for sites with significant international traffic. Virtual servers and CDNs (content display networks) can be placed in multiple geographical locations. This means that when a user enters a domain name for a specific website, cloud hosting delivers the site from a virtual server in the same region as that user. This is one of many hosting choices you can make to avoid building a slow-loading website. In the past, one of the main issues with cloud hosting has been its cost. This has changed, however, and now many website creators—including Wix—include free cloud hosting with every site created. Wix's multi-cloud hosting makes it one of the best web hosting services, even amongst other cloud hosting providers, because it offers a layer of redundancy; if one cloud service encounters issues, another can take over, ensuring that your website remains up and running with minimal disruption. For example, when a significant AWS outage in December 2021 disrupted millions of websites (including banks, airlines and streaming services), not a single Wix site went down . This approach enhances the overall uptime and performance of your site, which is crucial for maintaining your site's reliability and user satisfaction. Dedicated hosting Dedicated hosting is like having an exclusive piece of digital real estate: one website is hosted on a single, dedicated server. This is often the preferred choice for large websites attracting thousands of users per day. It offers an experience akin to owning your own on-site server and usually includes full management services. The primary advantage of dedicated hosting lies in its total control. You have the freedom to configure the server any way you want, from its operating system to security protocols. This control allows you to optimize for your website's specific needs, offering a performance level that's hard to match. It's particularly effective for handling large volumes of traffic without breaking a sweat. However, such luxury comes at a price—both literally and metaphorically. Dedicated hosting is typically the most expensive option on the hosting menu. It also demands a significant investment in management and maintenance, often requiring specialized technical expertise. Plus, should anything go awry with your specific server, your website will bear the brunt until the issue is resolved. This is a limitation that other hosting types like cloud hosting elegantly sidestep, thanks to their network of multiple servers that offer greater flexibility and redundancy. Reseller hosting Reseller hosting stands out as a unique blend of entrepreneurship and website hosting. Imagine you're leasing a large office building. Instead of using all the space yourself, you sublet individual offices to other businesses. That's reseller hosting in a nutshell. You purchase a significant amount of server space from a hosting provider, use a portion for your own website and then rent out the remaining space to other site owners. The primary motivation is often revenue generation, but it can also be a savvy way to make the most of server space that would otherwise go unused. While this may sound like an attractive way to offset hosting costs or even turn a profit, reseller hosting has many of the same challenges as shared hosting. Just like tenants in an apartment complex share amenities like a gym or laundry room, websites on a reseller hosting plan share crucial server resources. This means storage and bandwidth are divided among multiple sites on the same server. Consequently, if one of your subtenants experiences a sudden surge in traffic, it could impact the performance and reliability of your own website as well as those of your other tenants. So, just as you would screen potential tenants for a rental property, it's wise to be selective about who you allow to share your server space. Managed hosting Managed hosting is more of an add-on service than a standalone type of hosting. Picture it as a concierge service for your website. Whether you choose cloud, dedicated or VPS hosting, managed hosting takes care of the nitty-gritty details for you. This includes tasks like setting up the server, configuring software, troubleshooting issues and generally ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Managed hosting is great for providing a comprehensive service, including data backup and full server and software management. For website owners, this often means peace of mind in terms of your site’s security and performance. Many web hosting providers, Wix included, will incorporate this as part of their service, regardless of the type of hosting (cloud, dedicated or VPS) customers opt for. How to choose a web hosting service When you're on the hunt for a web hosting provider, avoid simply picking the first one you come across. You have to play detective, investigating the features that each service offers. From security measures to performance capabilities, different hosting providers offer a variety of features that can either make your life easier or leave you with a bitter aftertaste. In this section, we'll explain how to choose a hosting provider, so you can make an informed choice that suits your needs. 01. Find out if its servers are reliable Server reliability is a must-have for the smooth operation of your business and the performance of your website. When your site experiences downtime, it doesn't just frustrate visitors; it can also harm your search engine rankings and possibly incur penalties. This could derail transactions, disrupt sales and thwart other crucial interactions with your audience. To get a sense of current issues that could affect you, it's wise to search Google News for recent instances of outages or security breaches. This can offer insight into how different hosting providers respond to and manage such events. Choosing a web hosting provider with a strong track record of uptime is vital for ensuring your site is always connected and acceptable. Wix, for instance, boasts a 99.99% uptime. A reliable host should further offer globally distributed servers and CDNs to ensure your website performs well, no matter where your audience is located. But don't stop at just uptime percentages; your hosting provider should also actively monitor traffic and server functionality. The goal is to anticipate and address any issues before they can cause problems. 02. Assess its security features With risks like data breaches and cyberattacks on the rise, skimping on security features when choosing a web hosting provider is a gamble that you can't afford to take. Here are the cybersecurity basics you should look for when assessing web hosting providers: TLS certificates: Transport layer security (TLS) certificates—which replaced SSL certificates as the go-to protocol—encrypt the data exchanged between your site and its visitors. In simpler terms, it makes sure prying eyes can't easily snatch sensitive information like passwords or credit cards. When a hosting provider offers TLS, it changes your website's address from HTTP to HTTPS. That little ‘S’ informs visitors that your site is secure. Beyond reassuring your site's visitors, HTTPS is also favored by search engines, giving your site a potential boost in rankings. Firewalls and malware scanning: While a firewall keeps hackers and malicious software out, malware scanning takes care of any viruses, spyware or ransomware that may have slipped through the cracks. Backups: Even if your hosting provider offers all the security features, it's basically impossible to make your site 100% secure. Choosing a hosting provider that offers regular, automated backups ensures that you’ll be able to restore your site if it does suffer a security breach. DDoS protection: Distributed denial of service ( DDoS ) attacks aim to overwhelm your website with traffic to make it unavailable. A good hosting provider should offer robust DDoS protection to ensure your site remains accessible even under such attacks. Beyond these essential features, Wix hosting takes website security to the next level with 24/7 monitoring to spot issues before they become major problems. It also allows you to enable features like two-factor authentication and phishing protection. To further fortify its security landscape, Wix even runs a bug bounty program , inviting skilled ethical hackers to identify and report any potential vulnerabilities. “With our bug bounty program, which includes tens of researchers who are constantly looking for ways to hack our environment, every new and existing feature is being given the necessary attention to ensure it’s secure,” explained Ifat Kooperli, Wix’s lead of vulnerability management, to HackerOne . “When we see the same vulnerability repeatedly, we examine the root cause and find out how it can be mitigated across the platform.” Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? 03. Consider speed When you're considering a web hosting provider, don't let speed fall by the wayside. Avoiding site speed mistakes (like overlooking caching and not implementing lazy loading ) is crucial for keeping visitors engaged. And let's not forget, speed also plays a key role in your website’s search engine ranking. Heavy hitters like Google factor in page load time when they're deciding which sites to display in those prized top search results. A zippy website could be your ticket to the big leagues. So, how can you tell if a hosting provider is up to speed? Peek at their server hardware specs; the more modern the hardware, the faster your website is likely to load. And don't skip over the mention of CDNs. A CDN stores snapshots of your website at various global locations, which makes your site load faster for people, regardless of where they are in the world. With three data centers and over 200 CDN nodes across the U.S. and Europe, Wix ensures that your audience can access your content in a flash, regardless of where they’re located. Real-time monitoring of performance data ensures constant improvements, while automatic media adjustments on their servers promise fast downloads and optimal visual experience on any device. Plus, Wix’s single, unified tech stack means you instantly benefit from any updates or optimizations they roll out. Learn more about how Wix’s performance can help your business. 04. Determine if it allows for easy scalability When you suddenly find yourself in the internet spotlight, the last thing you want is for your site to slow to a crawl or, even worse, crash entirely. Those are peak moments when every visitor counts, and being prepared for rapid growth helps you make the most of these golden opportunities. That's why, when you're on the hunt for a web hosting provider, scalability should be high on your list of must-haves. Opt for a hosting provider that offers a spectrum of plans, each with different resource allocations. This ensures that when your website starts hitting it big—whether in terms of visitor numbers or the sheer amount of content—you can effortlessly transition to a more robust plan. A provider that prioritizes easy scalability is essentially investing in your future success. They're not just handing you a one-size-fits-all package but offering a roadmap for growth. Even if you aren’t aiming to attract millions to your site, underestimating the importance of scalability could come back to haunt you down the line. Over time, you might decide to add more features, images or videos. If your plan doesn’t accommodate the extra weight, your hosting provider could slow down your site, charge you overage fees or even take your website offline until you upgrade or remove some of that extra data. Wix’s website hosting services cater to businesses ranging from solo ventures to large enterprises, making it versatile enough to handle whatever your site needs. The platform automatically adjusts your website's resources to manage traffic spikes or dips. While the 500MB of storage space that comes with the free plan is more than sufficient for basic blogs or portfolio sites, you can get anywhere from 2GB to unlimited storage space depending on the Premium plan you sign up for. 06. Review pricing plans Web hosting costs vary between providers and according to the type of hosting you choose. With many web hosting providers, the more you pay, the more features you unlock. This is something to consider when choosing a type of hosting and provider since the cheapest option isn’t always the best. For example, some shared web hosting plans start from as little as $1.39 per month, although this low price will typically involve a multi-year commitment plan. Low monthly payments often mean you don’t have access to certain services—such as data backup—which may require an extra charge. The more exclusive the type of hosting, the more expensive it gets. Dedicated hosting plans can cost up to several hundred dollars a month, but free web hosting is now an integral part of many website creation tools and is also a good option. Learn more about how to host a website for free. 07. Test customer support Unless you’re a technical wizard, you’re going to want to choose a hosting provider that handles the heavy lifting for you. That said, you still want to ensure that you’ll have access to expert technical support and customer care if questions or issues do arise. Look for a provider that has its customer care team readily available 24/7 and accessible over multiple methods of communication. Wix’s customer care team is available 24/7 via live chat, email and phone. If you sign up for a business account, you even have a specialized support team. This means you not only get help whenever you need it but that help is tailored to the specific needs and challenges you might face as a business owner. 08. Look for extra features Besides the essentials we've already discussed, some hosting providers sweeten the deal with additional features. Here are a few examples of features to look out for: Custom email accounts: Imagine if Wix’s support team reached out to you from a Gmail address. You would correctly assume that you were receiving spam. A business email address that carries your domain name not only elevates your professional image but also makes it simpler for people to remember how to get in touch with you. Ecommerce capabilities: If you're running or planning to run an online store, then you can't ignore eCommerce web hosting and features. The basics include an SSL certificate for secure transactions and multiple payment gateways. Having a built-in shopping cart feature is a big plus too. The more seamless the online shopping experience you can provide, the better for your business. Analytics: In the digital age, data is your best friend. Your hosting provider should offer analytical tools that track visitor behavior, site performance and other metrics. This valuable data can help you understand your audience better, fine-tune your site's content and ultimately improve your website's overall performance. Migration support: If you're making a move from another hosting provider, the last thing you need is a complicated, messy transition. Make sure your new hosting provider offers migration support to ensure a smooth, error-free shift. This can save you hours of time and plenty of headaches. As a website builder with all these features as well as a full suite of business solutions, Wix certainly fits the bill. Sign up for Wix  today. What is web hosting FAQ How do I host a website? Now that we’ve explained exactly what web hosting is and the main types available, here is how to host a website : Research the types of hosting available—including all of the potential hosted services available Choose the right type of hosting for your site Select your hosting platform or provider Decide on and connect your domain name Does Wix host websites? Yes, Wix hosts websites. It provides cloud-based web hosting services as part of its website-building platform, enabling users to create and host their websites directly through Wix. How much does it cost to host a website? The cost to host a website varies widely, depending on the hosting provider, type of hosting plan and additional features. Basic shared hosting can start as low as a few dollars per month while more advanced options like dedicated hosting can cost hundreds of dollars per month. Wix provides free hosting services to all of its users. Can I host a website myself? Yes, you can host a website yourself, but it requires technical knowledge and resources. You'll need a server (which can be a dedicated machine or a computer), a stable and fast internet connection and knowledge about server management, website maintenance and security protocols. However, for ease and reliability, many opt for professional hosting services. Why do I need web hosting? Web hosting is essential for storing your website’s files and making sure it’s accessible online 24/7. It provides bandwidth for data transfer, offers security features and includes technical support - if you opt for a managed service. Hosting services optimize site performance, offer scalability and can include professional email accounts with your domain. Can I get free web hosting? It depends on your hosting provider. But, build a website with Wix and secure, reliable hosting is free with every site.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Looking for a new home for your domain? If your current provider isn't meeting your needs or you want a better setup moving your domain name is easier than you think. While the process can feel a little confusing at first the good news is that most transfers follow a similar path. We’ll break down the steps so you can move your domain with confidence keep your site running and stay in control of your website. TL;DR: How to transfer a domain name You’ll get a simple rundown of the entire process of moving your domain name from checking eligibility and unlocking your domain to entering your authorization code and approving the transfer. You’ll also discover how to keep your site running during the switch, avoid delays and handle DNS updates once the transfer is done. 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: Check if your domain is ready for a transfer Pick a new registrar and prep your info Unlock your domain and grab your authorization code Start and approve the transfer Update DNS and settings so your site and email keep working To transfer a domain name , start by unlocking it with your current registrar and requesting the transfer code. Choose a new registrar, enter the domain and submit the code to start the transfer. Confirm the request through the approval email sent to you. Once approved, the transfer completes automatically in a few days. What is a domain transfer?  A domain transfer is the process of moving your website's name, also known as a domain name or  web address , from one web hosting service to another. This allows you to change where your website is hosted while keeping the same domain name and  URL  that your visitors are familiar with. A successful domain transfer ensures that your website remains accessible and functional throughout the entire process.  Learn more: What is web hosting How to build a website How much does a domain name cost How much does an SSL certificate cost Reasons to transfer a domain Understanding your motives for transferring the domain can help you make an informed decision and choose the right new host for your website. There are several reasons why you might want to transfer a domain name. These include: Dissatisfaction with current web host : You may be looking to switch from your current web hosting service because of poor customer support, frequent downtime or limited features. Better features and pricing : Some web hosting services offer better deals and lower prices that make transferring your domain an attractive option. Additional features such as domain privacy  protection or a website builder  that may be appealing to users. Consolidation of services : If you have multiple domains registered with different registrars, consolidating them all under a single DNS registrar can help streamline domain management  and reduce costs.  How to transfer a domain in 12 steps Verify your domain is eligible for a transfer Choose a new registrar and create an account Update your contact information Unlock your domain Obtain an authorization code Initiate the transfer with the new registrar Confirm the domain transfer Pay for your domain transfer Verify the domain transfer was successful Update your domain settings Renew your domain (optional) Cancel your previous service 01. Verify your domain is eligible for a transfer Before you begin the process of transferring your domain, it's important to make sure that it is eligible for transfer. Some domains are not transferable or have specific requirements, such as being active for at least 60 days since the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)  enforces a 60-day Change of Registrant lock .  It is also recommended to transfer a domain at least 45 days before it expires to avoid any issues with the transfer process and ensure that your website stays live. The entire transfer process typically takes about 5–7 days to complete. 02. Choose a new registrar and create an account Next, you will need to choose a new registrar for your domain. This is the company that you will be transferring your domain to. When researching potential registrars, consider factors such as domain price , customer service and additional features offered. Create a new account with your chosen registrar once you've decided. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup .  03. Update your contact information Before initiating the transfer, log in to your current registrar and check that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes your name, email address, phone number and physical address. Having outdated or incorrect contact information can lead to delays or disruptions in the transfer process. This is where you will receive important emails during the transfer, so make sure your admin email is correct. 04. Unlock your domain Domains are locked by default to prevent accidental changes or deletion. To transfer your domain successfully, you need to unlock it from your current web hosting service. This means that any holds or locks on the domain must be removed. This can typically be done through your account settings or by contacting your current registrar's customer support. Temporarily disable any WHOIS privacy protection on your domain so that the new registrar can confirm your ownership. Don't have a domain name yet? Learn more about  getting a domain name . Use a  domain name generator  if you need help coming up with an idea and check the availability with a  domain name search  tool. 05. Obtain an authorization code An authorization code, also called an EPP code, is a unique identifier that ensures you have the authority to transfer your domain. To get this code, log in to your current registrar account and navigate to the domain management section. Look for options like "Authorization Code," "EPP Code" or "Transfer Key." If you don’t see it right away, check the help center or reach out to your registrar’s support team—some registrars require you to request it manually. You'll need to provide this code to your new registrar during the transfer process. 06. Initiate the transfer with the new registrar Once you have selected a new registrar and completed all necessary steps with your current one, it's time to initiate the transfer with the new registrar. This can usually be done through their website or by contacting their customer support. You will need to provide your domain's authorization code, contact information and any other required details. Learn more: Best domain registrars , What is a parked domain ? 07. Confirm the domain transfer After initiating the transfer, you should receive an email from your new registrar asking you to confirm the transfer. This is a security measure to ensure that you have authorized the transfer before it takes place. Follow the instructions provided in the email to approve the transfer. The length of time it takes for a domain transfer varies, but it usually takes several days. During this time, monitor your website and business email to make sure services continue working correctly. While downtime is usually minimal, keeping an eye on everything helps you catch any issues early. 08. Pay for your domain transfer Some registrars may require payment for the domain transfer, while others include it as part of their services. Make sure to check with your new registrar beforehand so you are prepared for any fees associated with transferring your domain. Your new provider might require a year of service upfront, but watch for promotions offering the first year free. 09. Verify the domain transfer was successful Once the transfer is complete, verify that the domain is now listed in your new registrar’s account and check that your website and email services are functioning properly on the new web hosting service. If there are any issues, contact your new web hosting service for assistance. 10. Update your domain settings Once the transfer is complete, make any necessary changes to your domain settings, including updating nameservers and setting up DNS records. This is important to ensure that your website and email continue to function properly. If you're not changing hosting, you might not need to update DNS settings, but double-check to make sure your website and email continue to function properly. 11. Renew your domain (optional) If your domain is due for renewal during the transfer process, some registrars may automatically renew it for you. If not, make sure to renew your domain with your new registrar before the domain expiration  date. 12. Cancel your previous service Once everything is confirmed to be working correctly on your new web hosting service, you can cancel your previous service. This includes any hosting or domain services with your old registrar to avoid unwanted charges. Quick checklist for transferring your domain Step What to do Verify domain eligibility ✓ Ensure your domain is at least 60 days old, unlocked and free of disputes. Choose a new registrar ✓ Pick a new registrar, create an account and get ready to transfer. Update contact information ✓ Make sure your WHOIS admin email and other details are accurate and up to date. Unlock your domain ✓ Disable the registrar lock to allow the transfer. Obtain an authorization code ✓ Request the Auth/EPP code from your current registrar. Initiate the transfer ✓ Start the transfer process with your new registrar using the Auth/EPP code. Confirm the transfer ✓ Approve the transfer request via email or your registrar’s dashboard. Pay for the transfer ✓ Complete the payment to finalize the transfer process. Verify transfer success ✓ Check that the domain has been successfully moved to your new registrar. Update domain settings ✓ Adjust DNS, enable privacy, set up auto-renewal and confirm billing. Renew your domain (optional) ✓ Renew your domain if needed to extend its registration period. Cancel previous service ✓ Contact your old registrar to cancel any remaining services. Public vs. private domain transfer During the transfer process, you have the option to choose between a public or private domain. A public domain allows anyone to access information about the domain such as contact information and registration dates through a WHOIS lookup. In contrast, a private domain keeps this information hidden from public view for privacy and security reasons. It's important to consider the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. A public domain can be beneficial for businesses as it allows potential customers to easily find contact information. However, it also leaves room for spam emails or unwanted solicitations. On the other hand, a private domain can protect your personal information from being publicly available but may also make it more difficult for customers or potential partners to reach you. What happens to email, DNS and your website during transfer A domain transfer doesn’t automatically take your website or email offline. During the transfer, your DNS settings usually stay the same, meaning your website and email keep working as long as the name servers aren’t changed. In most cases, visitors won’t notice anything happening. Email is generally unaffected during a domain transfer, especially if it’s tied to the same DNS records. Messages continue to flow normally and inbox access stays active. Issues only arise if DNS records are changed during or right after the transfer, so it’s best to hold off on updates until the process is complete. Your website stays live throughout the transfer as long as DNS isn’t modified. If you switch name servers after the transfer, DNS propagation can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours. During that time, some visitors might briefly see an older version of the site, but full downtime is rare if the transfer is managed properly. Tips for a smooth domain transfer Jason Hennessey from Hennessey Digital emphasizes the importance of planning your migration strategy upfront. He shares how fear of asking about SEO impact delayed decisions for a client, leading to a stressful domain migration. “The transition was manageable with careful planning,” he says. "We guided that client through meticulous redirects, technical audits and communication campaigns. Traffic dipped briefly but recovered within months. If they had asked earlier, anxiety could have been reduced. Domain transitions are survivable when managed strategically. Hesitation often creates unnecessary stress." Based on this experience, here are some practical steps to make your domain transfer smoother: Plan ahead:  Schedule your transfer carefully. Avoid peak traffic times or special events on your site to minimize disruptions. Contact customer support if needed:  If issues arise, support can guide you through the transfer and ensure it completes successfully. Backup your website:  Always save a copy of your site before making major changes. If anything goes wrong during the transfer, you’ll have a secure backup to restore. How to transfer a domain name to Wix When you transfer your domain to Wix, Wix becomes your domain host. This means your domain's contact information, DNS settings, and registration payments are all managed from within your Wix account.  To transfer your domain to Wix Go to Domains in your Wix account. Click Add an Existing Domain and select Transfer your domain to Wix. Follow the prompts to start the transfer. Enter the domain and select the current registrar. Log in to your current domain host in a separate tab and confirm in Wix. Unlock your domain with the current host and confirm in Wix. Obtain and enter the authorization code. Choose an extension period and apply any vouchers. Review and update your contact information. Select a privacy option. Choose a payment method and submit the purchase. See our in-depth guide on how to transfer your domain to Wix . Common domain transfer issues and solutions Transferring a domain doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a quick guide to common challenges you might encounter and simple solutions to help you handle them smoothly: Locked domain: Many registrars lock domains by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. To resolve this, log in to your registrar account, locate the domain management settings and unlock your domain. If you can’t find the option, contact your registrar’s support team for help. Outdated contact information: Incorrect or outdated contact details can cause you to miss crucial emails, like transfer approvals. Before starting, update your contact information, especially your email address, in your registrar account to avoid delays. Authorization code issues: Trouble accessing the authorization (EPP) code can hold up the transfer. Check your domain settings for the code, or if it’s not visible, request it from your registrar’s support team. Start early to allow time for the process. Recent domain changes: Domains registered or transferred in the last 60 days, or recently updated ownership details, are often restricted from being transferred. Verify your domain’s eligibility in advance, and if necessary, wait for the restriction period to end. Transfer delays: Transfers can take a few days and delays might occur due to incomplete steps or registrar policies. Double-check that your domain is unlocked, the authorization code has been submitted and transfer confirmations are approved. Follow up with registrars if it takes longer than 5–7 days. Unexpected fees: Some registrars charge for transfers or have additional renewal costs. Review transfer policies before starting and compare costs between registrars. Look for promotions or discounts to reduce fees. More on how to manage your domain How to choose a domain name How to register a domain name How to get a free domain name How to change a domain name How to buy a domain name How to check domain authority How to transfer a domain name FAQ How long does it take to transfer a domain? The length of time it takes to transfer a domain varies, but it usually takes several days. This is mainly due to the authorization process and potential delays from both registrars. How much does it cost to transfer my domain name? Prices for domain transfers vary depending on the new registrar and their services. Some registrars may include the transfer as part of their package while others may charge a fee. It's important to research and compare pricing before choosing a new registrar. Is it free to transfer a domain? While some registrars may offer free domain transfers, there may be additional fees for services such as privacy protection or extended registration periods. Make sure to check with your new registrar for any potential costs associated with the transfer. Can I transfer my domain if it expires soon? It is possible to transfer an expiring domain, but it's not recommended. The transfer process may take longer than expected and if the domain expires during this time, you risk losing ownership of it. It's best to renew your domain with your current registrar before initiating a transfer. What if my domain has expired? Can I still transfer it to another registrar? Once a domain has expired, it is no longer eligible for transfer. You will need to renew your domain with your current registrar and wait at least 60 days before initiating a transfer. Will my website experience downtime during the transfer? It's possible that your website may experience some downtime during the transfer process. It's best to notify visitors and customers in advance so they are aware of any potential disruptions. Can I cancel a domain transfer once it has been initiated? Yes, you can cancel a domain transfer at any point before it is completed. However, keep in mind that some registrars may charge a fee for canceling a transfer. Can I transfer my domain and change web hosting providers at the same time? Yes, it is possible to transfer your domain and switch web hosting providers at the same time. This can help streamline the process and minimize any potential disruptions to your website.  However, it's important to make sure that both the new registrar and web hosting provider are compatible with each other before initiating the transfer. What if I don't know who my registrar is? You can use a WHOIS lookup tool to find out who your domain registrar  is. You will need to provide the domain name and the search will reveal the registrar's information. If you are unable to transfer your domain, you may need to contact the current registrar for assistance. I’ve just purchased a domain. Why can’t I transfer my domain to another registrar? Newly registered domains typically have a 60-day transfer lock to prevent unauthorized transfers. This is a security measure to protect the domain from being transferred without the owner's consent. After 60 days, you should be able to initiate a transfer. Does transferring my domain hurt my site’s SEO? As long as the transfer is done correctly and without any major disruptions or changes to your website, it should not have a negative impact on SEO. However, it's always recommended to monitor your site's performance after a transfer and make any necessary adjustments if needed.  What happens to my existing email address account after a domain transfer? If your email address is linked to your domain name, it may be affected by the transfer process. It's important to back up any important emails or contacts and make sure to update any settings with your new registrar to ensure a smooth transition.  Keep in mind that there may be some downtime during the transfer process, so it's best to have alternative means of communication set up during this time. Do I need technical knowledge or assistance for a domain transfer? While basic technical knowledge can be helpful, most registrars offer step-by-step instructions and support for their customers during a domain transfer. If you encounter any issues, you can also seek assistance from customer support or IT professionals.  However, if you are unsure about the process or feel overwhelmed, it may be best to seek professional help to ensure a successful transfer.  My domain can't be transferred. Can I connect the domain instead? In some cases, a domain may not be eligible for transfer. However, you can still connect the domain to your new hosting provider by changing the DNS settings. This will allow you to keep your existing domain while using a different hosting service.  It's important to note that this method may have limitations and it's best to consult with your new registrar for further guidance. How often can I transfer my domain? There is no limit on how many times you can transfer your domain name, as long as it meets the eligibility requirements set by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers). However, frequent transfers may incur additional fees and may also affect your website's SEO if done too frequently. It's recommended to only transfer when necessary and to carefully consider your options before initiating a transfer.  Additionally, some registrars may have their own restrictions or policies on how often a domain can be transferred, so it's important to check with them beforehand. What are top-level domains? Top-level  domain extensions  are one of the highest levels in the web’s hierarchical Domain Name System (DNS) . The most popular example of a TLD is .com , which is intended for commercial entities in the United States (hence .com). Other popular TLDs include .info , .org , . co , .net , .edu, .biz  .gov, .tv and country-specific extensions such as .mx , .ch,   .de , .be , .nl . or . co.uk .

Claim your free website hosting  now and get online today →   Building trust online starts the moment you create a website and choose a domain name . In this article, Prof. Dr. Dennis-Kenji Kipker, an expert in cybersecurity and digital resilience, explains what an SSL certificate is and why it matters for keeping your site and visitors safe.  If you’re learning how to open a website , understanding SSL is one of the first steps to protecting both your site and your audience. As the scientific director of the cyberintelligence.institute in Frankfurt, board member of CERTAVO AG and visiting professor at the Riga Graduate School of Law, Prof. Kipker breaks down how SSL encryption works, what threats it prevents and how to protect your website from the ground up. Try a free website builder  that takes care of your website security and domain protection from day one. Wix hosting keeps your website running smoothly and securely from day one. With reliable website performance , strong security and built-in tools SEO features , web analytics  and marketing, your site is ready to grow without limits. Plus 24/7 support means help is always just a click away. What is an SSL certificate? SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. That might sound complicated, but at its core, it simply means a secure connection is established between your browser and a website. An SSL certificate is like a digital ID card for websites. It confirms that a website is authentic and encrypts the data exchanged between you and the site. You can recognize a valid SSL certificate by the small padlock icon in your browser’s address bar and the “https://” at the beginning of the URL . Clicking on the padlock allows you to see details like the website’s name, the certificate issuer and the expiration date. These details should match the website to ensure the certificate is genuine. A valid certificate is always issued by a trusted certification authority, such as Let’s Encrypt or DigiCert. Technically, SSL has been replaced by Transport Layer Security (TLS). Even though the term “SSL” is still widely used, we are actually talking about TLS certificates today. Keep your site secure and trustworthy. Explore the best SSL certificate providers available today. What does an SSL certificate do? An SSL certificate keeps your website safe by locking the information visitors share, like passwords or payment details, so no one else can read it. It also proves your site is real and trustworthy. An SSL certificate ensures that the connection between your device, like a smartphone or computer, and the website is encrypted. Encryption converts data into a code that only the intended recipient can decode. Think of it like a sealed envelope: without encryption, anyone could read or alter the contents without detection. With SSL, the “envelope” is securely closed. Websites without an SSL certificate often display a “Not Secure” warning, which can discourage users. When you visit a site with “https://,” a process called the SSL/TLS handshake begins: your browser requests a certificate from the website’s server containing information such as the site’s name and public key. Your browser verifies that the certificate is valid and matches the website. If everything checks out, the browser and server create a unique encryption key used only for that session. From that moment on, all data exchanged between your device and the website is encrypted. Even if someone intercepts it, they wouldn’t be able to read or understand it without the key. Build trust from the first click, explore how to host a website with Wix and enjoy free website hosting . Why are SSL certificates important? SSL certificates are essential for multiple reasons, for both users and website owners. "Cybersecurity is not just a technical matter: it is above all a posture, a way of thinking about the management of one's site, one's tools, one's teams." - Allan Kinic, cybersecurity expert and founder of Prevention-internet.fr Privacy (GDPR) Search engine optimization Verification (authentication security) Data integrity Customer trust 01. Privacy (GDPR) The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union requires that personal data be protected during transmission. This includes names, addresses, email addresses and payment information. SSL certificates provide this protection through encryption. So, is SSL mandatory? Indirectly, yes. GDPR requires appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect personal data (Art. 32 GDPR). Without SSL encryption, secure transmission can’t be guaranteed, which could constitute a GDPR violation with potential fines. “The GDPR has a clear objective: to create a space of trust where users can decide who, how, and for what purposes their personal data is used.” - Marina Brocca, regulatory compliance consultant specializing in GDPR and LOPDGDD Learn how to make a GDPR compliant website with Wix. 02. Search engine optimization Search engines like Google and Bing favor websites with SSL certificates. A secure connection can improve your search ranking, which is especially important if you want to attract new customers or readers. 03. Verification (authentication security) An SSL certificate confirms that a website is legitimate and not a potentially harmful copy. This protects users from phishing and fraud, making it clear that the site they’re visiting is authentic and trustworthy. Explore these website security tips to keep your site protected. 04. Data integrity SSL not only protects against eavesdropping but also against tampering. You can be confident that information arrives exactly as sent, without unwanted or unnoticed alterations by third parties. 05. Customer trust SSL also boosts visitors’ confidence in your site. When users see the padlock icon in the browser bar, it signals security and professionalism. A lack of SSL can deter people, as no one wants to use an “unsafe” site. Types of SSL certificates There are different types of SSL certificates depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main options: Single domain certificate (SSL/TLS) A single-domain certificate protects one domain, for example, “ www.wix.com .” It’s ideal for websites or blogs with only one URL and is probably the most common type of SSL certificate. Many hosting providers automatically provide a free single-domain certificate for every domain created, making it especially convenient for beginners or smaller projects. With just a few clicks, your website is encrypted without requiring technical knowledge. Recommended reading:  How much does a domain cost?   Multi-domain certificate (SAN/UC) SAN stands for Subject Alternative Name and UC means Unified Communications. These certificates protect multiple domains simultaneously, e.g., “www.your-site.com,” “shop.your-site.com” and “portfolio.your-site.com.” For smaller companies or projects, individual single-domain certificates for each domain are often easier to manage. Wildcard certificate A wildcard certificate covers a main domain and all its subdomains. For example, “www.your-site.com,” “blog.your-site.com” and “shop.your-site.com” can all be protected with a single certificate. Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? Final thoughts about SSL certificates Today, an SSL certificate is no longer optional, it’s essential. It protects personal data, increases visitor trust, and is even legally required when processing personal data. Which certificate is right for you depends on how you use your website. Single-domain certificates are sufficient for small sites, while multi-domain and wildcard certificates make sense for larger projects. If you’re not a technical expert, make sure to choose a hosting provider that makes generating and installing an SSL certificate easy. This ensures your site meets legal requirements and builds trust with your users. Meet the expert Prof. Dr. Dennis-Kenji Kipker is a leading expert in cybersecurity and digital resilience. He is the scientific director of the cyberintelligence.institute in Frankfurt, a member of the board of CERTAVO AG and a visiting professor at the Riga Graduate School of Law, where he specializes in global IT law and cyber strategy. What is an SSL certificate FAQ Do I need an SSL certificate if I already have web hosting? Yes. While most web hosting  providers include SSL by default, not all do. SSL encrypts the connection between your site and visitors, protecting sensitive data like logins or payments. If your web hosting plan doesn’t include one, you can add it manually. When comparing providers, look for those offering eCommerce hosting  with free SSL, like Wix, where it’s automatically included. How does SSL affect my website's SEO and domain name search visibility? Search engines prioritize secure sites, so having an SSL certificate can help your site rank higher in domain name search  results. It signals trustworthiness and data protection, which Google values. When you register your domain, whether through a domain name generator  or manually, make sure SSL is activated to give your website a competitive SEO advantage. What's the connection between SSL certificates and cloud hosting vs shared hosting? Cloud hosting vs shared hosting  can support SSL, but the setup and performance differ. In shared hosting, resources are shared between multiple sites, which can impact speed and reliability. Cloud hosting , on the other hand, offers scalability, faster performance and enhanced security, ideal for sites handling sensitive data. SSL complements both by securing connections, but it pairs especially well with the stability of cloud environments. How much does it cost to get an SSL certificate with my web hosting plan? The web hosting cost  varies, but with Wix, SSL is included on every plan. Some hosts charge extra for advanced certificates, yet for most websites, especially personal or business sites, the included SSL is all you need. When comparing hosting costs, factor in whether SSL, domain registration and best online storage solutions  are bundled together for better value. What's the best way to secure an eCommerce site with SSL and reliable hosting? For online stores, SSL is a must to protect checkout data and customer information. Look for eCommerce hosting  that includes built-in SSL, automatic renewals and cloud hosting reliability. Platforms like Wix offer all-in-one security. so you can set up your store, connect your domain via a domain name generator and enjoy encrypted transactions without extra setup.