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Get started with Dropshipping today Dropshipping is a popular way to sell online without stocking and shipping goods. That means no inventory, no warehousing costs, no packaging, no last-minute delivery headaches, essentially, you can outsource everything that happens after a shopper makes a purchase. Dropshipping represents a special type of freedom in the eCommerce space. But as the saying goes, with great freedom comes great responsibility. To successfully launch a dropshipping business, you need to conduct research, build a fully functioning eCommerce website and support your online store with a solid marketing and customer service strategy. This comprehensive guide will explore the benefits and complexities of dropshipping and outline everything you need to know before getting started with starting a business. Ready to start selling? Try Wix’s dropshipping website builder today. What is dropshipping? Dropshipping is a type of retail fulfillment business that outsources production, warehousing and shipping to a third-party supplier. If you dropship some or all of your products, you don’t stock or fulfill those items yourself. Instead, when you receive customer orders, you route them directly to manufacturers or wholesalers for direct shipment to customers. You don’t pay for the items until they are purchased by your customers. This arrangement can be a win-win for everyone involved. Sellers get to focus on curating and promoting items as opposed to managing inventory and warehouses; suppliers get to focus on making and delivering goods without needing a retail operation; and shoppers gain access to products they can’t necessarily find at their local stores. Dropshipping can be a quick way to start a business, with minimal upfront costs and low risk. Make sure you understand the basics of how to build your store so you can set up a solid foundation for your dropshipping business. What is a dropshipper? A dropshipper is an intermediary between consumers and suppliers, curating and promoting the goods that suppliers ship to customers. Retail businesses can operate exclusively as dropshippers, or they can stock some products themselves and dropship others. Dropshipping is booming thanks to the rise of eCommerce, but sellers in any channel can be dropshippers. In the 20th century, catalog brands such as JCPenney and Sears used a form of dropshipping when routing mail orders directly to manufacturers for faster delivery. Today, retailers with limited physical floor space or pop-up sellers can display samples and fulfill orders using dropshipping. Whatever type of business that dropshippers choose to start, this niche is growing. The global dropshipping market is projected to jump more than 30% through 2027, according to data by Research and Markets. Learn more: eCommerce vs dropshipping How does dropshipping work? The biggest difference between dropshipping and the standard retail model is that the selling merchant doesn't stock or own inventory. Instead, the seller purchases inventory as needed from a third party—usually a wholesaler or manufacturer—to fulfill orders. Here's a simplified step-by-step overview of how it works: 01. The retailer sets up an online store The process begins with you, the retailer. You create an online store and select products to sell typically from a dropshipping supplier or marketplace. Your store showcases these products with pricing and descriptions. When a customer visits your store, they see one cohesive brand – they don’t interact with the supplier directly. Your main responsibility in this step is marketing the products, optimizing your store and setting retail prices that allow for profit while remaining competitive. 02. The customer places an order A customer browses your online store, selects a product and makes a purchase. They pay the retail price you’ve set for the item. At this point, you don’t need to worry about managing inventory or packaging – the order details are seamlessly passed on to the next stage. It’s critical to have an easy-to-navigate storefront and a secure payment system so the buying process is smooth and builds trust with customers. 03. The retailer sends the order to the supplier Once the customer has completed their purchase, you forward the order details to your dropshipping supplier along with payment for the product at its wholesale price. Many dropshipping platforms automate this process, making it efficient and error-free. The wholesale price is lower than what the customer paid and the difference between the two amounts becomes your profit after deducting any other fees or expenses. 04. The supplier processes the order At this stage, the supplier takes over. They pick, package and prepare the product for shipping. This eliminates the need for you to deal with physical inventory or logistics, freeing up your time to focus on other aspects of your business like customer support and marketing. Reliable suppliers ensure the correct product is packaged and meets the quality standard you’ve promised. 05. The supplier ships the product The supplier ships the product directly to your customer using the address details provided. The process is seamless from the customer’s perspective – your online store remains the face of the transaction. Packaging often includes neutral branding so customers may not realize a third party handled their purchase. It’s essential to work with reputable suppliers to ensure timely delivery and positive customer experiences. 06. The customer receives their product Once the shipment arrives, the customer receives exactly what they ordered. While the supplier manages logistics you remain the point of contact if the customer has questions or concerns about their order. Providing excellent customer service at this stage can strengthen your brand and encourage repeat business. Benefits of dropshipping Dropshipping is an attractive retail model for a variety of reasons. Some of the main benefits of this type of business idea include: Low startup costs If you use dropshipping and free or low-cost eCommerce site tools to launch an online store, your cash outlay is minimal. You don’t need to pre-purchase inventory and your suppliers typically absorb the cost of storing and shipping products (though in some cases, may charge you for shipping). Even non-dropshipping product businesses can launch on a shoestring with this model in mind. Take Noah Rosen, a Forbes 30 Under 30 founder who started Forge to Table from a culinary school dorm room: "I ordered 200 hand-forged knives to my dorm room and built a Wix website to sell them." Today, Forge to Table ships to customers in more than 30 countries, with a catalog of 40+ kitchen products. The dropshipping equivalent of that story is even leaner: with no inventory order to fund up front, the only real launch costs are the website, a domain and your marketing. No warehousing Since suppliers hold inventory, you don’t need to lease storage space or fill your garage. You also avoid warehouse labor costs, which have risen an average of 8% since 2020, according to the Wall Street Journal. Expansive product selection Since you're not limited by physical storage space or geography, you can sell as many products as you want. In addition, the selection of products available to you is nearly unlimited, giving you the freedom to curate a unique assortment. If items don’t sell well, you can pull back quickly without needing to offload residual inventory. Broad product options mean you can appeal to a wider potential customer base and even bundle products together to sell more. Operate from anywhere In the past, retailers were tethered to physical store locations. Now, if you operate an online-only dropshipping business, you can manage your eCommerce site from anywhere with internet access. This gives you flexibility as a business owner in terms of where you work from but also in relation to what you sell. If you're not tired down by inventory and needing the space to store it, you can sell anything from anywhere and even pivot if an item doesn't sell well, to something else. Tammy Maki, founder of Indigenous-inspired chocolate brand Raven Rising, learned this firsthand. When the pandemic closed her pastry consulting business, she moved back home with no eCommerce infrastructure and no formal background in online retail. She launched the Wix store herself within months, and Raven Rising now ships across Canada and won the Bell Let's Talk Start-up Award in 2020. Here's how Tammy frames the mindset shift she went through: "Honestly, I looked at Amazon and I went, 'If they can have an eCommerce site that can service the world, for God's sake, why can't I?'" Automated workflows Once your store is up and running, much of the day-to-day order management can be automated. While you still need to monitor customer service and marketing promotions carefully, the mechanics of purchases, fulfillment and shipments can run in the background. Merchants using Wix’s dropshipping solution can automate inventory management, order routing, order tracking and more. This is the part that makes one-person stores genuinely viable. Jonathan Loake, a solo founder running Aluminium Rainflow in the UK, describes the split this way: "About 50% of my sales come through the website through the eCommerce platform that you provide. The other 50% is through leads, again, through the website." Eight years into running the business by himself, Jonathan still uses Wix eCommerce to process half of his orders end-to-end while leads from the same site drive the other half. Scale efficiently The combination of automation and supplier outsourcing means you can grow your business quickly with fewer staff members and logistical headaches. Dropshipping drawbacks and limitations Despite being flexible and offering low barriers to entry, dropshipping has potential drawbacks. If you’re considering launching a business built on a dropshipping business idea, be aware of these caveats: Stiff competition Because dropshipping offers so many potential benefits, millions of other sellers are trying their hand at it. And unless you lock in an exclusive contract with a supplier, there’s nothing to prevent them from dropshipping for a competitor. To stand out, you need a strong brand differentiator, top-notch customer service and comprehensive marketing strategies. According to Chad Waldman, a DTC brand builder who has scaled brands in competitive wellness categories, niche selection is where most aspiring sellers go wrong: "Most people who ask 'what's the best eCommerce niche?' are asking the wrong question. The right question is: what niche is right for you to own, and can you validate it before you sink time and money into it?" Worth knowing: dropshipping catalogs often grow fastest in the first few weeks because importing products is so easy. Sellers who narrow their assortment to a specific niche and then build brand and content around it consistently outperform those who try to be the cheapest in a crowded category. Low profit margins Because there are so many potential suppliers, including ones from overseas, many dropshippers stake their brands on rock-bottom pricing, which can make it tough to eke out a profit or to compete with higher price points. While high-ticket dropshipping can be successful, you’ll need to cover additional fulfillment fees for upscale packaging and insurance, and customers will expect concierge-style customer service, which can also be costly. Lack of quality control Since you're not physically handling the products yourself, you don’t know whether suppliers are delivering quality goods or cutting corners, or whether they’re offering counterfeit merchandise. The challenge is especially steep if you source products from overseas suppliers, where safety standards may not match local regulations and quality may not be up to par. A growing number of stories are circulating about customers feeling duped after receiving products that don’t match the online descriptions. But as the seller of record, your brand is on the line. Sustainability and social concerns Half of consumers would be willing to pay a premium of up to 10% for ethically and sustainably made products, according to PwC. But it’s hard to vouch for products and manufacturing processes you haven’t evaluated in person, which puts you at risk for accusations of “greenwashing.” Customer service accountability If customers have problems with order delivery or the products themselves, it’s up to you to resolve the issues, even though you didn’t make the items or ship the packages. Tight cooperation with your dropshipping partners and responsive communication on their part is essential. When vetting potential suppliers, quiz references extensively to ensure you’ll be able to meet customers’ expectations. Inventory Issues Supplier stock levels can change unexpectedly, causing popular products to sell out before you can fulfill orders. Regularly monitor inventory and stay in close contact with suppliers to ensure timely fulfillment and keep customers satisfied. Lack of recourse Before signing a contract, review the terms and conditions with an attorney. If your dropshipping partner is overseas, work with a legal firm that has experience on the ground there. Otherwise, you may have few options if the relationship sours or, worse, defective or damaged products cause a customer harm. How to start dropshipping with Wix Now that you know everything there is to know about dropshipping, you’re ready to take the plunge—and there’s no easier way to get started than to use Wix eCommerce. With Wix’s end-to-end platform, you can quickly learn how to build a website from scratch, connect to dropshipping suppliers and manage products and orders from a single administration interface. The steps to get started are simple: Come up with your dropshipping idea: Identify a niche by researching trending products and analyzing market demand. Look for gaps in the market, research competitor offerings and check social media trends. Use tools like Google Trends and Amazon Best Sellers to validate your ideas and ensure profitability and low competition. Design your website: Use Wix’s website builder to create an eCommerce site or online store with the right tools for dropshipping automatically built in. No coding is required; Wix’s interactive platform will walk you through the process and give you a range of online store templates to choose from, as well as the ability to customize everything to your preferences. Additionally, built-in AI tools can automatically generate text for product descriptions, FAQ pages, email newsletters, social posts and more. Connect to the Modalyst dropshipping hub or choose another dropshipping supplier: Wix’s Modalyst marketplace connects you with thousands of vetted dropshipping suppliers who deliver high-quality products and reliably fulfill orders. You can browse items by categories, including name brands, trending items and independent labels. Choose dropshipping products: Select your product assortment and import the items to your Wix site. Customize the product pages, including the product descriptions, to be unique, engaging and reflect your brand voice. Add lifestyle images to supplement or replace the standard catalog photos. Pricing and inventory are automatically updated to reflect the suppliers’ latest information and displayed on your pages. Set your product costs: Establish a baseline price markup formula based on your suppliers’ prices so you can see how much you’ll earn on each product before launching it for sale. As mentioned earlier, remember to factor in your costs, including overhead for fulfillment fees, marketing and customer service. Many suppliers handle the shipping costs directly; if yours does not, you’ll want to factor that in, as well. Get ready to transact: Set up Wix Payments to transact orders and accept payments online via credit and debit cards, digital wallets and “buy now, pay later” solutions. Monitor orders: Once launched, you can review and track orders via the Wix dashboard. Follow up with suppliers to ensure they’re fulfilling orders, and obtain tracking numbers so you can monitor estimated delivery dates. Market effectively: Use Wix’s marketing tools to get the word out and build your brand presence. Social media is a great way to connect with potential customers—use it to showcase your products and build a loyal following. Make sure your site is optimized for SEO by adding relevant keywords to product descriptions and blog posts to improve search rankings. Wix email campaigns and analytics can help you reach the right audience and fine-tune your strategies, so you’re always making the most of your marketing efforts. Learn more: Best dropshipping website builders Dropshipping examples to inspire your business Ultimately, there are many ways in which you can use dropshipping to build or enhance your eCommerce business. Below are three examples of ways that you can leverage dropshipping. 01. The Boho Birdy Australian company and Wix merchant The Boho Birdy offers affordable “boho”-style apparel, bridalwear and homewares. Dropshipping is baked into the brand’s identity as a low-cost shopping source, and the selection is carefully curated to highlight eclectic finds that align with their aesthetic. Flowy apparel, paisley prints and natural fabrics dominate, and the site offers retro band T-shirts from the 1960s and 70s. The unique selection is backed by an extensive FAQ, multiple payment options and easy access to customer service via live chat—proactively addressing shoppers’ questions and easing purchases. 02. Sweet Mana If you already run an eCommerce business and want to add more items to inventory, but lack the time or budget to source and stock them yourself, you can use dropshipping to complement your existing product mix. Sweet Mana is a skincare and lifestyle company with a wide range of products. The company's ethos is centered on relaxation, mindfulness and healing the spirit; the intent is to inspire “a state of island bliss.” The core offering is Sweet Mana’s branded line of handcrafted botanical skincare products and candles. To extend the site’s product offering, Sweet Mana uses dropshipping to offer travel photography prints with a meditative subject matter that aligns with the brand. Curated selections of crystal jewelry, virtual feng shui kits and beach-ready bikinis and sun hats round out the assortment. 03. Little Tail Farms You don’t need to be a retailer of physical goods to take advantage of dropshipping. Whether you sell software subscriptions or work in the community as a charity or school, you’ve likely got fans who appreciate clever merchandise tie-ins. With branded merchandise created via print on demand, you can supplement your primary revenue stream and provide fun options to your existing customer base. The owners of Little Tail Farms raise adorable dwarf goats, babydoll sheep and other unique breeds of farm animals. The company’s primary source of income is agritourism—visitors who stay overnight or take two-hour tours to meet the animals. The Little Tail Farms Store provides additional income via print on demand logo T-shirts and accessories that serve as mementos of customers’ visits. Creating and selling custom products has never been easier. With Wix’s on demand printing, powered by Printful, you can design and launch personalized apparel, accessories, home goods and more, made to suit any style, niche or need. No extra tools, no complex setup. Just pick a product, upload your design and start selling, all from your Wix dashboard. With seamless Printful integration, you get a streamlined way to build, brand and sell, without ever leaving Wix. "If you wait until everything's perfect, you never launch. So you've just got to launch something that goes. And then you add the doors and the windscreen wipers later." Jonathan Loake, Founder, Aluminium Rainflow (8-year solo Wix eCommerce business, UK) What is dropshipping FAQ Is dropshipping worth it? Given the resources and effort involved, it’s reasonable to ask: Is dropshipping worth it? In response, consider the potential market. Revenue from retail eCommerce in the U.S. is projected to grow 51% from 2023 to 2027, according to Insider Intelligence. What’s more, spending is forecast to grow in categories that have so far been underserved online. While apparel, furniture and electronics will still claim a significant share of eCommerce dollars, health and personal care products, and food and beverage items, are each forecast to account for at least 10% of eCommerce sales by 2027. Is dropshipping legal? Yes, dropshipping is completely legal. To be clear, you’re selling products with the suppliers’ permission. Make sure to run honest marketing campaigns and comply with online sales tax laws. How profitable is dropshipping? On average, dropshippers make between 15% to 20% profit margin. As a dropshipping business, you’ll need to balance cost with revenue. Consider the wholesale prices of your products and your marketing budget. Then, price your products to ensure that you’re earning more than you’re spending. At the same time, make sure to research your competitors’ prices to get a reasonable range, and strike the right balance between competitiveness and margin. How to get started dropshipping? The basic steps you need to follow to start dropshipping are: Starting dropshipping involves these key steps: Choose a niche: Select products that interest you and have market demand. Choose a supplier: Find reliable suppliers on platforms like AliExpress, Modalyst or SaleHoo. Build an online store: Use eCommerce platforms like Wix eCommerce. Import products: Use your site to import products from suppliers to your store. Promote your store: Via SEO, social media and paid ads to attract customers. Manage your orders and store: Focus on customer service, while suppliers handle inventory and shipping. Is dropshipping hard for beginners? Dropshipping can be tricky for beginners, new to starting a business, due to high competition, slim profit margins and the need for effective marketing. Beginners must find reliable suppliers, manage their customer service and optimize their online stores for traffic and sales. However, with research and persistence, dropshipping can become a profitable business model. How much do I need to invest to start dropshipping? Starting a dropshipping business typically requires a low initial investment compared to other business models, as low as $100–$500, depending on your approach. You’ll need to budget for creating your eCommerce website (which can often be done cost-effectively with platforms like Wix), marketing expenses and possibly purchasing a domain name. Most suppliers don’t require upfront costs for inventory, so your main initial expenses will revolve around setting up and promoting your store. How do dropshippers make money? Dropshippers make money by selling products at a higher price than the cost from their suppliers. The difference, called a markup, is the profit they earn per sale. Dropshippers often focus on attracting customers through strategic marketing and offering a seamless shopping experience to encourage purchases and repeat business.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ A domain name is your unique address on the internet. A customized domain is essential for building your business and brand online. A great domain helps customers remember and find your website easily. The domain lifecycle consists of several stages: registration, active use, expiration, grace period, redemption, and deletion. After registration, the domain can used for your website. When it expires, it enters a grace period for renewal. If not renewed, it can be redeemed briefly before being deleted and made available again. It's important to understand what the lifecycle of a domain is, to make sure that you protect your own unique brand name. 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: The life cycle of a domain explained Every domain moves through a predictable sequence: registration, active use, expiration, a grace period, redemption and then release back to the public pool. Knowing where your domain sits in that cycle helps you avoid accidental expirations, recover names you forgot to renew and even snap up valuable ones that drop. A reputable registrar plus auto-renew is usually enough to keep your domain safely in your hands. You’ll learn: The main stages of a domain life cycle What happens when a domain expires Grace period vs. redemption period explained How to recover a recently expired domain How to buy a domain that has been released back to the pool Best practices for keeping your domain registered What are the stages of a domain lifecycle? The life cycle of a domain name includes several key stages: Registration: Securing your desired domain name. Learn more about how to register a domain name. Active phase: Maintaining and managing the domain. Renewal: Extending the domain's validity. Domain expiration: When a domain is not renewed, leading to potential deletion. Transfer: Moving a domain to another registrar if needed. Learn more about how to transfer a domain name. What is domain registration and why is it important? Domain registration is the first step in securing your unique domain name. It involves reserving a specific name for your website, ensuring that no one else can use it. Once registered, the domain becomes yours to use for a specified period, typically one year. Buy your domain name today. A domain registrar is a company authorized to sell domain names. They work under the guidelines of ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), which oversees global domain name policies. Learn more in our guide to the best domain registrars. What is the active phase of a domain name? Once your domain is registered, it enters the active phase. This is when your domain is live and accessible on the internet. An active domain is fully operational, allowing users to visit your website. It signifies that all necessary configurations are in place. What makes a domain active? DNS settings: Ensure that your domain's DNS (Domain Name System) settings are correctly configured to direct traffic to your website. If you build a website with Wix, this is done automatically for you. Web hosting: Your website needs a hosting service to store its files and make them accessible online. Enterprise grade, secure hosting is included with every Wix site. At Wix, your domain is set to renew automatically at the end of the subscription period. Should you choose to turn the auto renew off, your domain will expire at the end of the registration period and move on to the grace period. What is the domain renewal process? Renewing your domain name is crucial to maintaining your website and brand name online. It ensures that your domain remains active and accessible to users. Domain renewal involves extending the registration period of your domain before it expires. It's vital to renew on time to prevent losing ownership of your domain, which could disrupt your business operation What are the consequences of not renewing a domain in time? If a domain is not renewed, it enters a grace period and eventually becomes available for others to register. This can lead to loss of your brand identity and customer trust if someone else acquires your domain. How to make sure my domain renewal is seamless? Set up reminders well in advance of the expiration date. Use automatic renewals, ensuring continuous ownership without manual intervention. With Wix you should keep auto renewals on to make sure this happens. Regularly check your contact information with your registrar to receive timely notifications about renewal deadlines. Wix makes domain transfer easy, with free SSL, reliable hosting, privacy options and 24/7 support. What are the grace and redemption phases? These phases offer a safety net if you miss renewing your domain on time. So it can be important to know what they are and how they work. Grace period After a domain expires, it typically enters a grace period, lasting around 30 days. During this time, you can still renew the domain at the regular renewal price without losing ownership. However some domain extensions do not have a grace period: .at .be .ch .co.at .com.br .or.at .de .fr .nl .mx .it domains have a 15 day grace period. .me domains do not have a grace period, or a redemption period. If you own a .me domain its important to remember that your domain will lapse automatically if not renewed on time and will not enter a grace period. Redemption period If the grace period lapses without renewal, the domain enters a redemption period, usually lasting 30 days. Recovering a domain during this phase involves paying additional fees, as it requires more effort from the registrar to restore it. It's important to note that the release of a domain from the redemption period is not guaranteed, as Wix resells domains from a 3rd party registrar that has the right to privately auction the domain. If your domain is registered at Wix and has entered this period, you can retrieve it from the Domains page in your Wix account. If your domain is registered outside of Wix, you'll need to contact your domain registrar directly to retrieve a domain in redemption. Domain expiration and deletion Domain expiration is a critical phase that can lead to the permanent loss of your domain if not managed properly. Once a domain isn't renewed, it enters the grace period, followed by the redemption period. If no action is taken during these periods, the domain may proceeds to pending deletion, making it available for public registration again. This usually happens 5 -10 days after entering the pending delete period. Consequences of domain deletion Losing a domain can disrupt your website being live, leading to potential loss of traffic and revenue. It may also result in damage to your brand and business reputation if competitors or malicious entities acquire your expired domain. This makes it essential you renew your domain at the end of each registration period. Transferring a domain name Transferring a domain name to a different registrar can be necessary for various reasons, such as better pricing or improved services. Looking to transfer your domain to Wix? To transfer your domain to Wix, you must get an authorization code (also known as the EPP code) from your current registrar. The code is usually sent to your domain's registered email upon request. If needed, contact your current domain registrar for assistance. Your domain must be unlocked before you begin the transfer. In most cases, you can contact your current registrar to unlock the domain. In some cases, your domain might be locked due to ICANN's 60 day lock policy. Learn more here. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. Domain life cycle FAQ What is the difference between a domain’s grace period and redemption period? The grace period is a short window right after expiration when you can renew at the normal price and recover your domain without penalty. The redemption period comes after that, when the domain is held in limbo and renewal is still possible but with a much higher restoration fee. After redemption ends, the domain is released to the public.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ A domain registrar is where you purchase and register your domain name, sometimes known as your website name. A web host provides the server space where your website's files are stored and then made available online. Think of the domain name as your web address and the web host as the building where your website lives. Both are essential to making sure your website is live and accessible online and important terms to understand when learning how to go about making a website. Learn more: Does Wix host websites? 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: Web host vs. domain registrar A domain registrar is where you buy and manage the rights to a domain name. A web host stores the files that make up your actual website and serves them to visitors. You need both to run a site, but they don’t have to be the same company. Modern platforms like Wix bundle them together for simpler setup, while traditional setups keep them separate. You’ll learn: What a domain registrar actually does What a web host actually does Differences between domain hosting and web hosting Pros and cons of bundling registrar and host How to switch your registrar or host without downtime When you might need a separate DNS host What is a domain host? (and how it differs from a web host) A domain host is responsible for storing your website's data and then making it accessible on the internet. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that your website remains live and functional. It does this by providing the web infrastructure needed to store and deliver your website files so that when someone types your domain name into their browser, they can access your site without any issues. In a nutshell, domain hosting manages your website's address and its DNS records. Web hosting provides the actual web server space where your website's files, images and content are stored and served to visitors. Think of domain hosting as managing your address and web hosting as the physical storage space. DNS hosting, on the other hand, manages the records that direct traffic to your site. Together, these types of hosting work together to make sure your site is always accessible. What is a domain registrar? A domain registrar is the entity responsible for registering and managing your domain name on your behalf. Learn more about some of the best domain registrars out there. A domain registrar is an organization accredited to sell and manage domain names. They help you secure a unique web address, which is important for the branding of your site and business. When you register a domain, your registrar submits your chosen name to ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), which oversees the management of domain names globally. There are numerous registrars available, each offering various services. Companies like Wix, provide user-friendly interfaces and additional features such as privacy protection and email forwarding beyond just buying a domain name from them. Learn more about how to choose the right domain registrar for you. When it comes to choosing a website builder to create your website, it's worth keeping in mind that many act as your domain host, web host and domain registrar. Website builders like Wix, provide the robust infrastructure to offer all of the services necessary to choose a domain name and host your website. This not only means peace of mind, it also means you don't need to shop around for individual domain and web hosting services or platforms. Learn more: Does Wix host websites?. "What often gets forgotten when talking about choosing a website builder is the capabilities of the infrastructure that’s promised to you, the reliability of the hosting, the level of security in place to protect your visitors’ data and, of course, your site's speed. Even if infrastructure is not the first thought that comes to mind when creating a website, if it’s not robust enough, it can cause major headaches for website owners when trying to scale a website later on." Esin D. Habif, Product Marketing Lead (outbound) at Wix Learn more: How to buy a domain name Best web hosting for small businesses Best website hosting providers How to register a domain name Domain host vs registrar (and the main differences) A domain host is responsible for storing your website's data and ensuring it is accessible on the internet. They provide the server space and technology needed to keep your site live. A domain registrar, on the other hand, manages the reservation and registration of domain names. They handle the registration process, checking that your chosen domain name is unique and officially recognized. Web and domain hosting terminology you should know Domain name system (DNS) The domain name system (DNS) acts like the internet's phonebook. It translates human-friendly domain names into IP addresses, which computers use to identify each other on the network. This process ensures that users can easily access websites by typing in domain names instead of complex numerical addresses. Name servers Name servers are specialized servers that store DNS records. They direct traffic to your website by linking your domain name to the correct IP address. This connection is vital so that visitors reach your site when they enter your domain name in their browser. Email hosting Email hosting is the management of email accounts associated with your domain. It allows you to create custom business email addresses (e.g., yourname@yourbusiness.com) in order to enforce your brand's professionalism and credibility. Learn more: How to create a business email Is Wix good for business email? When selecting an email hosting provider, consider factors such as storage capacity, security features and integration capabilities. Many domain registrars and hosts, including Wix, offer integrated email hosting services. This integration simplifies management by allowing you to handle all aspects of your domain and email from a single platform in the name of simpler business management. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. Web host vs. domain registrar FAQ Can I use one company for my domain registrar and a different company for web hosting? Yes. You register the domain with one provider, then point its DNS records to your web host’s servers. This is common when teams want a specialized registrar or are migrating gradually. The trade-off is more accounts to manage and more places to update if anything changes.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is a common web address ending like .com .net or .org. Unlike niche or country-specific domains generic ones are flexible easy to remember and work for almost any type of website, making them a go-to choice for businesses blogs or personal sites. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: What is a generic top-level domain? A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is one of the broadest types of domains, including familiar extensions like .com, .net and .org, plus newer ones like .app, .store and .blog. Unlike country code TLDs (ccTLDs), gTLDs are not tied to a geographic region, which makes them a strong choice for businesses creating a website or starting a business with a global audience. You’ll learn: How gTLDs differ from ccTLDs and other TLD types The original big six gTLDs and what they are for How new gTLDs (.app, .store, .blog) work When a gTLD is the right choice for your business Pricing differences between gTLDs How gTLDs affect SEO and audience perception What is a generic top-level domain? A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is a type of top-level domain that’s not limited by geographical or specific organizational categories. Within gTLDs, there are several subcategories. Each serves a distinct audience, but collectively, they’re designed to provide a wide range of options for domain name structures. Generic These domain extensions are open for anyone to use and include some of the most popular domains on the web, think .com and .net. They are widely used by a variety of individuals and organizations due to their flexibility. For example, .com is a go-to for businesses, startups and personal websites looking for a professional and global appeal. Similarly, .net is often favored by tech companies or networking organizations. There are no strict restrictions tied to these domain extensions, making them accessible to anyone, whether you're starting a blog, an eCommerce platform or a nonprofit site. Their availability and versatility have made them staples in the digital landscape. Sponsored Sponsored TLDs (Top-Level Domains) are managed by designated organizations and often come with specific eligibility requirements to ensure their use aligns with their intended purpose. For instance, .edu is reserved exclusively for accredited educational institutions, such as universities, colleges or certain educational organizations. Only those that meet strict accreditation standards can register for this domain, which ensures credibility and trust for users seeking educational resources online. Similarly, .gov is strictly limited to U.S. government entities, such as federal, state and local government agencies. This restriction guarantees that any website with a .gov domain is an official government resource, providing clear and authoritative information to citizens. Generic restricted These operate similarly to generic top-level domains (gTLDs) but come with slightly stricter regulations or specific guidelines for their use. For example, the .shop domain is designed for making an eCommerce website, making it ideal for businesses that want to create an online store or establish a strong retail presence online. On the other hand, the .pro domain is intended for certified professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, accountants or engineers, who want to showcase their credentials and create a professional online presence. To use a .shop domain, users are often required to provide proof of their certification or professional status to ensure the domain maintains its integrity and exclusivity. These restrictions ensure that these domains are used appropriately and help build trust among visitors. While these domains are not as broadly applicable as standard gTLDs like .com or .org, they provide a more specialized and targeted option for specific user groups looking to distinguish themselves online. Learn more: types of domains. Common generic top-level domains and their uses When the internet first took off, only a handful of gTLDs existed, such as .com, .org and .net. Over time, additional gTLDs were introduced to offer more diversity for growing businesses. Here’s a quick look at some of the most common gTLDs and what they’re typically used for: .com Originally created to improve efficiency in commercial organizations, it’s now used across industries like healthcare, education, retail and technology. Despite new tools, it remains the top choice for its versatility and effectiveness. .net Initially intended for network-based services, the .net domain has become a versatile option. Once reserved for networking organizations like internet service providers, it’s now a popular alternative to .com, giving businesses and individuals more flexibility for their online presence. .org Commonly used by nonprofits and community organizations to support their missions, these tools and strategies help drive engagement, increase outreach and manage resources effectively. .edu Reserved exclusively for accredited educational institutions, including schools, colleges and universities that meet recognized academic standards. These institutions are eligible to access specialized resources and benefits tailored to support their educational missions. .gov Primarily used by government-related websites, this domain type is reserved for official entities and organizations to ensure credibility and trust in the information they provide. .mil Access is limited exclusively to official U.S. military websites, ensuring the information is secure and available only to authorized personnel. What are top level domains gTLD vs ccLTD? Another type of top-level domain is country code top-level domains (ccTLDs). These are specific to a particular country or territory and typically used by businesses that operate within those regions. For example, .ca is the ccTLD for Canada, while the .co.uk domain is used in the United Kingdom. While country code domains may seem more localized, they can also be beneficial for businesses looking to target a specific audience in a particular country or region. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup. Choosing the right TLD for your business Selecting the right domain name can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by exploring generic top-level domains that align with your site’s purpose. Then, pick a domain name that fits your business and helps your brand stand out. Keep these key points in mind when choosing a domain name: Learn more: starting a business. Define your purpose Think about what your website will be used for and how you want to present your brand online when you create a website. Are you a business selling products or services? A nonprofit organization looking to create awareness and drive donations? Understanding your purpose will help narrow down which TLD is most appropriate for your site. Consider your target audience If you’re targeting a specific country or region, using a ccTLD may help establish trust among local users. If you have a global reach, consider using a more universal gTLD like .com or .org. It’s also essential to consider whether your target audience will be familiar with a specific TLD and if it aligns with their expectations for your business or industry. Check availability Once you have identified the purpose and audience for your website, it’s time to choose a domain name that is not already taken. You can check the availability of different TLDs through domain registrar websites or via the WHOIS lookup. Keep it simple and memorable Choose a domain name that is easy to remember and type. Avoid using numbers, hyphens or unusual spellings as they may confuse users. Using a domain name generator can help you brainstorm simple and memorable options. A great domain name can make all the difference in establishing your online presence and building brand recognition. Set your budget Different TLDs may come at different price points, so it’s essential to set a budget and research the costs associated with your desired TLD. Some gTLDs may be more expensive than others, while some ccTLDs may have specific guidelines for their use that require additional fees. If you’re looking for a free domain name, be sure to check if it’s part of any offers or bundles. Make sure to factor in the cost of renewing your domain annually as well. On a budget? Learn more about how to get a free domain name and how to start a website Understanding the Domain Name System (DNS) The Domain Name System (DNS) is like the internet’s phone book. When you type a domain name into your browser, the DNS translates it into an IP address, the actual location of the website on a server. This system allows users to access websites through easily remembered names instead of long strings of numbers. Here’s how it works: You type a domain name, like wix.com. The DNS locates the corresponding server for the website. Your browser retrieves the website from that server, making the content accessible to you. New to domain names? Learn the basics of what is a domain name. Components of a domain name A domain name consists of multiple components working together to create a unique identity online. By understanding these components, you can piece together a domain name that reflects your business’s identity and is easy for users to remember. Second-level domain (SLD) The second-level domain is the part of a web address that comes before the dot. For example, in wix.com, Wix is the SLD. This part is often the brand or business name and is the most identifiable aspect of the domain. Top level domain (TLD) The top-level domain is what follows the dot in a domain name, such as .com, .net or .org. It classifies the domain into a specific category indicating the domain's purpose. Subdomain A subdomain is an optional part of the domain added before the SLD. For instance, blog.example.com or shop.example.com. Businesses often use subdomains to organize different sections of their business website. Learn more: URI vs URL How to register a domain name and gTLD Once you’ve selected a domain name and extension, visit a trusted domain registrar, where you can register it in just a few clicks. During registration, you’ll finalize the name, choose your TLD and secure ownership. Be sure to check if the registrar offers additional perks like domain privacy protection or easy renewals. Follow these steps on how to register a domain name: Pick a domain registrar: Use a trusted registrar like Wix. Search for your domain: Use the registrar’s domain name search tool to check availability. If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator, which can help you find a similar domain name. Register your name: Choose your desired gTLD and complete the registration. Learn more about next steps after buying a domain name. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. What is a generic domain name FAQ Does the choice of a gTLD affect my website’s SEO? No, the choice of TLD does not directly impact your website's SEO. However, using a relevant and memorable domain name can indirectly improve your SEO by making it easier for users to find and remember your website. Additionally, using a country-specific ccTLD may boost your local SEO efforts in that particular region or country. Can I switch my domain name and TLD in the future? Yes, it is possible to change a domain name and TLD in the future, but it can be a complicated process. It's best to carefully consider your options and choose a suitable domain name and gTLD from the start to avoid any potential hassle or confusion down the road. If you do decide to change your domain name or gTLD, make sure to redirect domain links, including all old links and inform your audience of the change to avoid losing website traffic and hurting your website's SEO rankings. What happens if someone else is already using the gTLD I want? In most cases, if someone else is already using the gTLD you want, you will have to choose a different one. However, it may be possible to purchase the domain from the current owner or try to negotiate for its use. Be cautious of domain squatting, where individuals register domains with the intent to sell them at inflated prices. How can I avoid scams when purchasing or registering a gTLD? To avoid scams when purchasing or registering a gTLD, make sure to use trusted and reputable domain registrars or a reliable domain broker. Also, be cautious of any unsolicited emails or messages offering discounted or free domains, as they may be attempting to scam you. Always do thorough research and read reviews before using a registrar or domain broker to ensure your domain registration process goes smoothly. What role does a generic domain name play in online branding? A generic domain name can play a significant role in establishing and maintaining your online branding. A memorable and relevant domain name can help users easily identify and remember your website, making it easier for them to find you again in the future. It also gives potential customers or visitors an immediate understanding of what your brand or business is about. Does a generic domain name work? A generic domain name can work well if it's easy to remember, relevant to your industry, and brandable. However cons include a lack of uniqueness and make it harder to stand out. If brand recognition is a priority, a more specific or creative domain might be better. Consider adding a keyword, location or unique twist to make it more distinctive while keeping it clear and professional. Are new gTLDs treated differently by search engines than .com? No. Google has stated publicly that new gTLDs are treated equivalently to traditional gTLDs from a ranking perspective. What matters is the content and authority of the site, not the extension itself. Your audience may still perceive a .com as more trustworthy out of habit, which is the bigger factor for most brands.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ Wix Domains lets you purchase, manage and connect domains directly to your website, all from one place. Whether you’re new to building a website or already well into your creative journey, Wix offers domain registration services to help you secure a unique web address and manage it confidently, no matter your level of experience. Learning how to develop a website with Wix also becomes easier when your domain and site management are all in one place. Your domain acts as your address online, a spot your audience can find you. Wix makes the process of buying and managing a domain much simpler than the usual maze of settings and jargon. And when you’re ready to take your brand further, you’ll find all the tools you need to make that online address truly yours. New to domains? Learn about what is a domain and what’s the easiest way to get a 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: What is Wix Domains? Wix Domains is Wix’s ICANN-accredited domain registrar, offering 400+ extensions, DNS management, privacy protection, free SSL and integrated business email, all from your Wix account. You can register a new domain, transfer an existing one or connect a domain bought elsewhere, then manage everything alongside your site. You’ll learn: What Wix Domains is and what it offers How many extensions Wix Domains supports Built-in DNS, privacy and SSL features How Wix Domains integrates with your Wix site How to transfer a domain into Wix Domains Pricing, renewals and the free domain voucher What is a TLD? A quick breakdown of how domain extensions are categorized Why Wix Domains? Having an easy way to own a domain is a game-changer. A well-chosen domain not only makes it easier for visitors to find and remember you, but also establishes trust and credibility. Wix Domains goes beyond selling you a simple URL. It provides tools to help you set up, customize and manage your domain without navigating the technical hurdles often associated with other platforms. Learn more: what’s the easiest way to get a domain. From the moment you register your domain with Wix, you gain access to these benefits designed to help you succeed online: Seamless integration with your website A unified solution Custom email addresses Flexibility for external connections User-friendly domain management Privacy and security built-In A range of domain extensions 01. Seamless integration with your website Wix Domains simplifies website creation by integrating domain name management directly into the platform. When you purchase a domain through Wix, it automatically connects to your Wix website with minimal effort needed on your end. No need to juggle between platforms or deal with complex configurations, your domain is live and working as soon as you’re ready to launch your site. Learn more: how to develop a website. 02. A unified solution Wix Domains is part of the broader Wix platform, which means your website hosting and domain management live under one roof. This simplifies everything from technical troubleshooting to billing. Having all these tools working together ensures smoother operations, so you can focus on creating great content or running your business. 03. Custom email addresses Wix integrates custom email solutions, enabling users to create professional email addresses tied to their domain. With partnerships like Google Workspace, you can use an address like you@yourdomain.com, giving your brand a polished, professional look while staying organized. 04. Flexibility for external connections Have a specific external website you’re working with? With Wix Domains, you’re not locked into Wix hosting alone. You can connect your domain to any external platform if you choose to explore different tools down the line. 05. User-friendly domain management Every domain you purchase from Wix includes a user-friendly dashboard where you can make updates, monitor renewals and manage domain privacy. These features give you full control without the hassle. 06. Privacy and security built-In Wix ensures secure domain management with advanced tools and encryption, providing essential features like SSL certification to keep data safe, DNSSEC for extra protection and domain privacy to safeguard your personal details, all while letting your brand shine. Learn more: How to secure your domain. What is domain privacy 07. A range of domain extensions Wix supports over 400 domain extensions, from popular options like .com and .org to niche choices like .online, .agency or .ai, giving you the freedom to choose the one that fits your project best. Check out the new domain extensions available on Wix and grab one that fits your idea. How Wix Domains supports creators Owning a domain is the first step toward claiming your space online. Wix Domains simplifies this essential step, giving you time and tools to focus on what matters, your ideas. Here’s how it puts creators in control: Simplified purchase process Buying a domain through Wix takes just a few clicks. The built-in search tool even helps you brainstorm domain names based on availability and keywords related to your niche. Customization for your brand Your domain name is the star of your online identity. Wix Domains gives you space to define that identity with precision and flexibility. Custom domains that represent your brand can set the tone for all your digital interactions. Learn more: What are custom domains? Streamlined workflows Juggling multiple platforms eats into your creative time. With Wix Domains, there’s no need to toggle between websites, hosting providers or additional tools. Everything happens in a cohesive system that grows with your needs. Fostering independence Managing domains might sound like something only tech-savvy pros can do. Wix Domains demystifies the process, proving that anyone can take charge of their online presence. The intuitive interface ensures that making updates, like renewing your domain, is stress-free. Free domain for a year Wix Domains offers free domains with many premium plans, making it a cost-effective option. By choosing an annual Wix website plan, you can claim a free domain for your first year, perfect for kickstarting your passion project or new business while saving money. Learn more: How to get a free domain name. How to get started with Wix Domains Starting with Wix Domains is simple. If you're wondering how to buy a domain name, it’s easy with Wix. Once you create a Wix account, you can either purchase a completely new domain through Wix or connect an existing domain to your Wix site. Here’s how: 01. Choose your domain name Search for a short, memorable domain that fits your vision. Wix’s domain name search tool makes choosing a domain name quick and straightforward. Use our domain name generator to find the perfect match for your brand. Learn more: what is a domain. 02. Check domain availability See if your favorite option is available on the Wix TLD list. Wix offers helpful suggestions and plenty of extensions, so you have choices. Learn more: What is a TLD?. 03. Register your domain name Once you find the right domain, register it for up to 10 years. If you’ve chosen an annual site plan, you can redeem your free domain for the first year. Learn more: How to register a domain name. 04. Create your website Right after registering, you’re ready to create a website using Wix’s tools, with web hosting already included. 05. Set up your custom email Add a business email that matches your new domain for consistent, trustworthy communication. Learn more: what is domain protection? Wix Domains pricing Wix offers competitive domain name cost options, starting at $14.95 to $24.85 per year, depending on the extension you choose. This price covers the initial one-year registration, making it easy to secure the perfect name for your brand. Renewing your domain is just as straightforward. If you want to add domain privacy to keep your personal information secure, this can be added for a small extra fee each year. You’ll see all pricing clearly listed before checkout, so there are no surprises along the way. This clarity helps you plan and manage your site confidently, knowing exactly what you need and what it’ll cost. Learn more: How much does a domain name cost? *Editor's note: Plans and pricing are current at the time of this writing. They are subject to change at any time. Ready to buy a domain? Get started with Wix today. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. What is Wix Domains FAQ How do I purchase a domain through Wix? Use the Wix domain search to find your perfect name, then follow the easy prompts to purchase and manage everything right from your dashboard. Can I connect a domain I already own to Wix? Absolutely. Users can transfer existing domains to Wix with a guided, hassle-free process or connect a domain purchased elsewhere in just a few steps, keeping everything organized in one place. Is my information protected? Your privacy matters. With domain privacy options and SSL certification, your personal details are kept safe and your visitors’ information is protected. Do I get free hosting with my domain? Yes, hosting is included with every Wix site, ensuring site reliability with 99.99% uptime so your domain and website stay online consistently. Which domain extensions are available? You’ll find all the classics like .com, .org and .net, along with unique choices such as .shop and .studio. Explore what fits your vision best. Can I get a custom email with my domain? Absolutely. Wix offers business email add-ons powered by Google Workspace, making it simple to create emails tied to your domain. How do renewals work? Domains purchased through Wix renew automatically 30 days before the domain expiration, with clear notifications and the option to extend your registration for up to 10 years. What if I need help? Wix provides 24/7 customer support through chat or phone, ensuring users have help whenever they need it while building, managing or growing their site. Are domains free on Wix? Yes, Wix provides a free branded domain for users on the free plan, like mysite.wixsite.com. To get a custom, professional domain such as mywebsite.com, you need to upgrade to an annual Premium plan. Certain yearly or multi-year Premium or Studio site plans include a voucher for a free domain for the first year. Do I need a Wix website to use Wix Domains? No. You can register a domain through Wix Domains and use it for email or point it at any other website host. Many users start with the domain only and build a Wix site later when they are ready.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ New to domains? Learn about what is a domain and what’s the easiest way to get a 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 a domain from Wix Buying a domain from Wix takes a few minutes. This how to buy a domain name guide walks through search, picking an extension and completing checkout, plus the steps for how to register a domain name from your Wix account. Wix bundles in privacy protection, SSL, business email options and 24/7 support, plus a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans. You’ll learn: How to search for a domain on Wix Which extensions Wix offers What is included with a Wix domain (SSL, privacy, support) How to claim a free domain with an annual Wix plan How to connect a Wix domain to your site or email How to manage renewals and auto-renew Why buy a domain from Wix? Purchasing a domain through Wix seamlessly integrates with your website, giving you everything you need in one place. Wix Domains provides private registration for enhanced security, helping protect your personal information. When you buy a domain directly from Wix, you also get easy domain management tools to update records or renew your domain. Learn more: what is a domain. Wix simplifies the process if you are learning how to make a website for the first time, offering an all-in-one website builder without the need to juggle multiple platforms. Plus, Wix ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience for managing your website and domain in one centralized location. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “When you buy your domain through Wix, you’re not just getting a name, you’re getting peace of mind. It comes with security, reliability and smooth integration, so your brand can shine without extra work.” How to buy a domain from Wix in 3 steps Check for domain availability Choose the right domain Complete your purchase 01. Check for domain availability The first step to buying a domain from Wix is making sure your desired name is available. To do this, log into your Wix account, go to the Domains page and use the domain name search bar to type in the name you want. Wix will process your input and show you whether the domain is available. If your preferred name is taken, don’t worry, Wix provides alternative domain suggestions to help you find the perfect match. Learn more: how to buy a domain name. Try our domain name generator to find the perfect name for your website. 02. Choose the right domain Once you find an available domain, you can choose one that best fits your brand or project. When choosing a domain name, consider the following tips for an impactful and memorable name: Learn more: how to register a domain name. Keep it short and simple, long or overly complex domains are harder to remember. Use relevant keywords to clarify your niche or business type. For example, if you’re a photographer, you might incorporate the word “studio” or “photo” in your domain. Avoid numbers, hyphens or uncommon spellings, as they can cause confusion. First time choosing a domain? Check out our guide to domain extensions for tips or see what 23 business owners consider their worst domain naming mistakes. 03. Complete your purchase Once you’ve selected a domain, Wix will guide you through the checkout process. You’ll need to choose the registration period (typically one to ten years) and whether to add features such as private registration (more on this below). After configuring these options, proceed to payment and your domain will be officially registered. Wix accepts multiple payment methods, making it easy to finalize your purchase. And here’s a bonus, if you’re on an eligible Wix premium plan, you might get your first year of domain registration for free. Discover how Wix offers free domains, and start building your website today. Setting up your new Wix domain Connecting your domain to your site Once your domain is registered, it’s time to connect it to your Wix website. The process is automatic if you purchased the domain through Wix. Your domain will be synced with your site, removing the need to manually update DNS settings. If you need to connect a Wix domain to another website or service, you can update your DNS records via the Domains page in your Wix account. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “With Wix, securing your custom domain is simple and seamless. In just a few clicks, you’ll have a professional address that makes your brand look established from day one.” Activating privacy protection Privacy protection is a crucial consideration when buying a domain. When you register a domain, your personal details (like your name, email and phone number) are publicly available through the WHOIS database. Wix Domains allows you to activate private registration as an additional layer of website security. Read more: What is domain privacy? To enable this feature, you can select it during your domain purchase or add it later through your Domains page. This simple step keeps your personal details private, while reducing spam and unwanted contact. Renewing your domain Your registration comes with a domain expiration date, typically set one to three years from the purchase date, depending on your chosen term. Wix Domains makes it easy to renew your domain, either manually or through auto-renewal. Enabling auto-renewal ensures you won’t accidentally lose your domain because of an expired registration. You can manage your renewal settings from your Wix account, where you’ll also find reminders and renewal updates. Wix domain pricing Buying a domain on Wix is designed to be flexible, so you can choose what works best for your project and budget. Domain pricing depends on your chosen extension (like .com, .net, .org or specialty TLDs) and the registration period, which usually ranges from one to three years. Most standard domain extensions start at around $14.95 to $24.85 per year, but prices can vary if you select less common or premium domain names. Many creators appreciate the annual renewal option, but you can also purchase multiple years in advance for added convenience. If you sign up for a Wix plan, you will get a free domain for the first year. Learn more: How to get a free domain name How much does a domain name cost? What is Wix domains? If you want extra features like private registration (to keep your information off public records), look for that add-on during checkout for a small additional cost. You’ll see all prices and options clearly before you make your purchase, so there are no surprises. *Editor's note: Plans and pricing are current at the time of this writing. They are subject to change at any time. Exploring Wix domain features One platform for all your needs With Wix, your domain integrates with your website seamlessly, but there’s more to it. You can also create branded business email addresses using Google Suite, like info@yourdomain.com, to establish strong brand identity and give your business a polished look. Additionally, all domain settings, like DNS record management, are easy to control directly from your Wix dashboard, where Wix simplifies domain name management for users. Scalability and support Wix domains are scaled for businesses and creators of all sizes. Whether you’re starting a blog or expanding an online store, the process is simple enough for beginners, yet robust enough for seasoned entrepreneurs. And if you encounter any bumps along the way, Wix provides 24/7 customer support to help you out. Why trust Wix’s experts? This article was created by Wix’s in-house domain experts, with years of experience helping people choose, register and secure the perfect domains for their businesses and online projects. The guidance, tips and best practices shared here come directly from real Wix projects, so you can be confident they’ll help you find a domain that represents your brand, stays secure and supports your long-term goals. At Wix, we’ve guided millions of entrepreneurs, creators and small business owners in establishing a strong online presence. Our team keeps up with the latest in domain management, security and branding, making sure the advice you get is practical and backed by proven results. Think of this article as your trusted resource for every stage of domain ownership, from finding your first custom domain to protecting and growing your online identity. Ready to get a website domain name? Get started with Wix today. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. How to buy a domain name from Wix FAQ Do I need a Wix Premium Plan to buy a Wix domain? No, you can purchase a Wix domain without a Premium Plan. However, a Premium Plan is required to connect the domain to your Wix website. Can I buy a domain from Wix and connect it to a site on another platform? Yes, it’s possible. You’ll need to manually configure your domain’s DNS settings in your Wix account to point it to the external site. What happens if my Wix domain registration expires? If your domain registration expires, Wix provides a grace period where you can renew it before it becomes available to others. Be sure to check your renewal notifications or enable auto-renewal to avoid losing your domain. Does Wix offer refunds for domain purchases? Wix doesn’t typically provide refunds for domain registrations, as they are processed immediately. Make sure you’re sure about your domain choice before completing the purchase. Can I transfer a Wix-purchased domain to another registrar later? Yes. Wix domains can be transferred out after the standard 60-day post-registration lock required by ICANN. You request an authorization (EPP) code from your Wix account, then start the transfer at your new registrar and the destination handles the rest.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ When you’re creating a website, you’d assume choosing a domain name would be the easy part. But as many of us know, it’s harder than it looks, and oftentimes, hindsight is 20/20. We recently asked business owners: What’s one mistake you regret making when choosing a domain name for your site? Turns out, there are many things that can go sideways when starting a business with the wrong domain. Here are the top mistakes that business owners vow to never make again. Keep reading for their tips on how to avoid making them yourself. Learn how to buy a domain from Wix or try our free domain name generator. 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: Lessons from 23 domain naming nightmares Twenty-three founders share the domain name mistakes they regret most: chasing trends, using awkward hyphens or numbers, picking a name that is hard to spell or pronounce, missing trademark conflicts and skipping the .com when it mattered. Their stories double as a practical checklist of what to avoid before you register. You’ll learn: The most common naming mistakes founders confess Why hyphens, numbers and creative spellings cause trouble Trademark and legal pitfalls to check before you register How a bad domain affects email, ads and search When and how to walk away from a bad domain A pre-registration checklist based on real founder lessons Top domain naming mistakes, according to real business owners: Picking a name that’s too similar to a competitor’s Neglecting SEO research Choosing creativity over clarity Not considering geographic differences Picking a name that’s too long and fails the ‘phone test’ Ignoring potential trademark issues Ignoring domain reputation Ignoring semantic associations Using hyphens Boxing yourself in by only thinking about the short term Failing to check name availability across other platforms Picking the wrong domain extension 01. Picking a name that’s too similar to a competitor’s "When I created my first site on Wix, I made the mistake of picking a domain without doing proper SEO research,” says Olivia Chiavegato, founder and CMO of The Vitalist. It wasn’t until her site went live that she found out a French winery had a similar name, and already dominated the first 12 pages of search results. “No amount of SEO optimization was ever going to help me get that first result,” she adds. “Fortunately, I spent time carefully thinking and researching other names before finding a new domain name that had very little relative competition.” Similarly, Edward White, head of growth at beehiiv recalls how “a friend of mine launched a startup and originally chose a name that was different, but slightly similar to a well-funded industry leader's name. They stuck with it for a short time, but mix-ups were happening often, and every dollar they spent on brand-awareness ads had a spillover effect. Instead of 100% of their ad investment going to boost their visibility, they were also inadvertently boosting their competitor's recognition. “The biggest issue was the unwinnable SEO battle…He eventually pivoted, but it caused a lot of unnecessary pain. [So before you commit to your URL,] audit the entire competitive landscape for names that are phonetically similar or close in spelling. If you find yourself having to explain, ‘No, we're the one without the S at the end,’ you've already lost.” Learn how to build a website from scratch. 02. Choosing creativity over clarity There’s a fine balance between creativity and clarity. But almost everyone agrees that clarity always comes first. “A name that's easy to say, spell and remember beats a ‘cool’ one every time,” says Borets Stamenov, co-founder and CEO of SeekFast. "We picked a clever, short domain that no one could spell right. It looked great on paper, but every time we said it out loud, we had to follow up with ‘That's with a K, not a C’ or ‘Two Ls, one Z.’ We lost traffic, emails bounced and worse, people Googled the wrong thing and found competitors.” Stella Morrison, founder of The Stellastra Effect, also notes, "One big mistake I see clients make when selecting a URL is opting for abbreviations or shortened words that aren't easily identifiable. “For example, a company called All Things Fans might use their full name across all their branding, but choose the URL ATFFans.com [because it’s available and cheaper than AllThingsFans.com]... Naturally, people are going to try AllThingsFans.com first, and when there’s nothing there, customers will assume All Things Fans was out of business.” Learn more: starting a business. Stella recommends staying true to the name your business uses publicly. And only if needed, explore options like ShopAllThingsFans.com or an alternate TLD like AllThingsFans.store. 03. Not considering geographic differences Seven years ago, when Jake Bunston, owner of MAKE Fencing, was creating his domain, he almost went with MelbourneFencingContractorsSpecialists.com. “Thank god I didn't pull the trigger on that monster,” he says today. “The real issue wasn't just length, it was industry confusion. In Australia, ‘fencing’ can mean sword fighting, which led to some awkward phone calls early on…What saved me was keeping it simple with MakeFencing.com.au. People remember ‘make’ and know exactly what we do.” Like Jake, insurance expert, Eamonn Turley, also reaped the benefits of localizing his domain name. “One mistake I made early on was choosing a domain that wasn't quite right for our audience and market,” he says. “We originally launched with a .com domain, thinking it would give us more credibility and international appeal. But over time, we realized that the majority of our customers were based in the UK and felt more comfortable engaging with a business that had a local identity. Learn more: choosing a domain name. “Eventually, we made the decision to switch from multiquotetime.com to multiquotetime.co.uk, and redirected all traffic accordingly. As soon as we did, we saw a noticeable increase in traffic and engagement from UK users.” It was a different story, however, for Joseph Lopez and his mobile IV therapy company, Arizona IV Medics LLC. “As our business grew, that domain became a ceiling rather than a foundation. The problem hit hard when we started getting calls from clients in neighboring states who wanted our services…We lost at least 40+ potential clients in our first year just from this perception barrier. “What really drove the lesson home was when a major hotel chain reached out about partnering across multiple southwestern states. During negotiations, they specifically mentioned that our ‘AZ’ branding made them question our ability to scale beyond Arizona borders. That conversation cost us a six-figure partnership opportunity. “If I could do it over, I'd choose something like IVMedicsUSA.com or create a completely brandable name that doesn't lock us into geographic limitations. Your domain should grow with your vision, not constrain it.” Check this out: Is your domain costing you business? 04. Picking a name that’s too long and fails the ‘phone test’ Simple is best. That’s what Courtney Epps, owner of OTB Tax, had to learn the hard way. “My biggest mistake was initially considering TaxStrategySouthCarolinaAccounting.com because I thought cramming my location and services would help people find me. The wake-up call came when a $2M client couldn't remember how to spell out my long domain during a phone referral to his business partner. I realized that 90% of my referrals happen through word-of-mouth conversations, and people need to instantly recall and share your web address. “Our current URL, OTBTax.com, works because it's short, memorable, and reflects our ‘Outside The Box’ approach without being literal.” Courtney recommends testing any domain by saying it out loud to someone when they're distracted, then asking them to repeat it back 10 minutes later. If they can't spell it perfectly, then it’s not worth it. Founder and CEO of Scale Lite, Keaton Kay, is on the same page. “I've worked with hundreds of service businesses through my private equity background, and one domain mistake cost a client over $80,000 in lost revenue. A Denver water restoration company had ColoradoWaterDamageEmergencyServices.com, 38 characters that nobody could remember during actual emergencies. When people had flooded basements at 2 a.m., they'd Google ‘water damage Denver’ instead of trying to recall that massive domain… “The killer was their truck wraps and business cards. The domain was so long it had to be printed in tiny font…After switching to a 12-character .com, their direct traffic jumped 40% within three months.” Related reading: What is a domain name? Is Wix good for business email? Website infrastructure 05. Neglecting SEO research It used to be said that the best domains are those that include relevant keywords. Today, exact-match keywords may play little-to-no role in your search rankings. Take the name BestDigitalMarketingServices.com as an example. According to ZontSound’s founder and chief technology officer, Nikolay Petrov, “I had a friend use a name like this for his startup, hoping it would help him rank more quickly in SERPs. And it did...initially. But his domain sounded very generic and forgettable, like a commodity rather than a brand. It didn't leave any room for him to expand past one small niche, and it wasn't the kind of credible, emotional connection you can forge with a good brand name.” He advises to focus on building your brand, even if it takes time. “A great website builder gives you enough control over layout and SEO that you don't necessarily need your domain name to rank (at all).” Favour Obasi-ike, project scheduler and host of We Don’t PLAY! podcast, knows the impact that this strategy can have. "I chose a domain that didn't match how people actually search for my services. My company name (Work & PLAY) suggests entertainment and music, when I primarily offer digital marketing and SEO services…so people initially struggled to find my business website because they'd search things like ‘SEO services’ instead of my actual company name. “What saved me was creating content that bridges this gap. I now optimize every blog post and podcast episode with the keywords my audience actually uses when searching for solutions.” 06. Ignoring potential trademark issues When creativity strikes, it's easy to forget one important step: checking for trademarks. “I've seen business owners fall in love with a domain name, buy it, build the brand around it, and then get hit with a cease and desist,” says Scott Gabdullin, Learo’s CEO and founder. “Not only is it a legal headache, but it can tank your SEO, confuse your audience and force an expensive rebrand.” "I once registered a premium domain for an online tool with high search volume,” chimes in Burak Özdemir, founder of Online Alarm Kur. “After experiencing the high of getting it, I wondered why I was able to get it so cheap. A few searches later, I found out a company had launched a big business on the same domain for the same purpose a few years earlier, but had since shut it down. “My gut told me to check if the wordmark was registered at the USPTO and, sure enough, it was. A parallel filing was at the EUIPO too. Overnight, the perfect address became a sinkhole. Trademarks are no joke. Anyone registering a domain should first search the trademark databases, then register the domain, not the other way around as I did." Related reading: How to trademark a domain name and how to register a domain 07. Ignoring domain reputation Before purchasing a domain, remember that it could’ve once belonged to someone else. For example, in Emily Ruby’s line of work, it’s common for businesses to use similar-sounding names. When her law firm, Greenberg and Ruby Injury Attorneys, was on the hunt for a URL, she recalls a situation in which a colleague found a seemingly perfect name and jumped to purchase it. “Unfortunately, he never investigated its past life before purchasing it,” she says. “The first sign that something was wrong was when his initial marketing emails had a shockingly high bounce rate. He later found out the domain was on several major spam blacklists because of bad behavior from the owners before him." Emily mentions that the site was also completely invisible on search engines. After running g a backlink analysis, the team found that the domain had thousands of low-quality, toxic backlinks pointing to it because the previous owner had opted for black-hat SEO tactics. Search engines had effectively blacklisted it, too. “The fix entailed a painful and time-consuming process of requesting removal from email blacklists and rejecting toxic backlinks, but the damage was already done," she recalls. "Always run a domain's history through the Wayback Machine and backlink checkers before you buy it. A premium name with a toxic past is worse than a slightly less perfect name with a clean slate.” Read also: How to buy a domain name 08. Ignoring semantic associations How we understand a turn of phrase, or even simple statements, can sound different to someone else. That’s why it’s important to test your domain in front of real customers before committing, advises content creator Sonny Da Badger. Sonny elaborates, “I've been running Support Bikers for years and made the classic mistake of assuming bikers would automatically understand what we do from hearing the name supportbikers.com. It sounds clear to us, but I learned that many people assumed we were just another charity or advocacy group rather than a business directory. “The real wake-up call came when people would mention they’d admit they'd seen our site but clicked away thinking it was just about biker rights. We were losing potential users because our domain didn't immediately scream ‘find motorcycles here.’” Cary Byrd, founder of CinchLocal, also reminds us not to forget about how automated systems may interpret words. This is especially true for businesses in regulated industries like healthcare, finance or pharmaceuticals. “I've been running digital marketing companies for over a decade, and the biggest domain mistake I made was with my first venture, eDrugSearch.com,” Cary notes. “It created massive problems with email deliverability and advertising platforms that automatically flagged anything with ‘drug’ in the URL. “We lost thousands in potential revenue because our business emails went straight to spam folders, and Google Ads repeatedly suspended our account for policy violations, even though we were helping people find legitimate prescription medications from licensed pharmacies.” 09. Using hyphens Believe it or not, this little punctuation mark can cause a lot of trouble. CEO of ServerMonkey, Bashar Hindi, recalls that “when we first launched ServerMonkey, we made a rookie mistake with our domain name. We thought being creative would set us apart, so we chose a quirky, stylized name that included a hyphen and a vague term. It felt fun and unique at the time, but looking back, it was a usability nightmare. “Customers struggled to remember the exact name and often mistyped the URL. Worse, sending out email addresses with a hyphen caused endless confusion. It wasn't until we shifted to servermonkey.com that things started flowing smoothly. The difference was night and day in terms of web traffic and overall brand recognition.” 10. Boxing yourself in by only thinking about the short term The best domains are scalable. “After 25 years in eCommerce, I've seen countless store owners pick domains that sound like product catalogs instead of brands,” states co-founder of Redline Minds, Lori Appleman. “They choose domains that describe what they sell today instead of building a brand for tomorrow…and though a descriptive domain might seem logical initially, it becomes a liability as you grow.” “One mistake I made early on was choosing a domain that matched my LLC name exactly,” admits Lisa Martinez, who founded TX Cash Home Buyers. “At the time, it seemed like the right choice, but looking back, my LLC name just wasn't very catchy or brandable. I ended up creating a DBA (Doing Business As) and building my brand around that instead.” At the same time, as you’re future-proofing your domain, avoid some classic mistakes like securing multiple domain variations without considering the user experience. “When I launched Rocket Alumni Solutions, I secured multiple domain variations, thinking I was being strategic [and preventing competitors from taking similar names]. We had walloffame.us, touchhalloffame.us and halloffamewall.com all pointing to the same product,” says founder and CEO, Chase McKee. “The reality was brutal during our early sales calls. Prospects would visit one domain, then later search for us using a different variation, creating massive confusion about whether they were looking at the same company. Our support team started getting tickets asking why our ‘different websites’ had conflicting information." The breaking point, he notes, came when a school district’s procurement team almost disqualified them because they couldn’t figure out which website was actually theirs during the vendor verification process. "We were literally competing against ourselves...After that, I learned to pick one primary domain and stick with it religiously across all marketing materials. Our close rate jumped from 30% to 40% partly because prospects weren't second-guessing whether they were on the right website.” 11. Failing to check name availability across other platforms Your domain name doesn’t live in isolation. In fact, “choosing a domain is only step one,” says James Bowers II, chief security and compliance architect at Input Output. He adds, “If that same name, or even a close variation, is already taken on social media platforms like Instagram, X, LinkedIn or YouTube, you've just created a branding nightmare. We've seen businesses invest in a domain only to realize too late that their handle on major platforms is taken or worse, associated with unrelated (or questionable) content.” 12. Picking the wrong domain extension Outside of the most popular .com extension, there are many other types of domains to choose from these days. You’ve got .co, .shop and .online (among others). While they each have their own strengths, picking the wrong one for your industry or for the wrong reasons can come with its consequences. “Years ago, a client registered a .io domain because their preferred .com wasn't available. It felt like a modern alternative at that time, and they didn't think twice,” mentions Matt Bowman, founder of Thrive Local. “They had no idea .io was tied to a specific country. The business wasn't connected to that region at all but search engines assumed the site was meant for that location. That one decision ended up hurting their visibility in the markets they actually wanted to reach.” In a similar vein, Apoorva Govind, CEO and founder of AI ad generator Bestever, shares, “When AI was first introduced, we chose an .ai domain. It helped people understand what we offered and it was quite trendy, but it turned out to be a double-edged sword. “Many corporate entities were completely against AI adoption and even blocked .ai domains on their networks, seeing them as a higher risk for spam. This made it difficult for us to reach them, our potential clients, and even caused issues with email deliverability. Having that .ai domain put us in the same category as hundreds of low-quality AI tools, making it a lot more difficult to prove our worth.” A word to the wise: avoid picking a unique TLD just because it’s trendy. Research the competitive landscape and understand both the risks and benefits before making a final decision. See also: A guide to domain extensions Best .com alternatives Why paying $100+ for a premium domain is worth it, according to 17 business owners What to avoid when picking a domain Example Picking a name that’s too similar to a competitor’s A startup calls itself Netflikz.com hoping to ride on Netflix’s popularity, confusing customers and inviting legal trouble. Neglecting SEO research A wellness blog uses the domain ZenVibesDaily.com, not realizing “zen vibes” has almost no search traffic, while “meditation tips” does. Choosing creativity over clarity A tech review site chooses Sproxxly.com, unique, but no one can spell or remember it, and it's not clear what the site is about. Not considering geographic differences A UK-based real estate agency uses FlatFinder.com, but U.S. audiences search for “apartment” instead of “flat.” Picking a name that’s too long and fails the ‘phone test’ A local bakery uses SweetTreatsandDeliciousDelights.com, which is great on paper, but is hard to relay over the phone without errors. Ignoring potential trademark issues A software company launches under SnapSoft.com, then gets a cease-and-desist from Snap Inc. over trademark infringement. Ignoring domain reputation A brand buys GreenEnergyPro.com without checking that it was previously used for spammy affiliate schemes, hurting email deliverability. Ignoring semantic associations A travel booking site calls itself CrashTrip.com, unintentionally evoking accidents and negative travel experiences. Using hyphens A clothing brand goes with Cool-Threads.com, but most people forget the hyphen and end up on CoolThreads.com, a competitor’s site. Boxing yourself in by only thinking about the short term A site named BuyElectricScootersNow.com does well initially, but struggles to pivot when it expands into e-bikes and other mobility products. Failing to check name availability across other platforms A podcast registers DeepDiveTalks.com, but can't get @DeepDiveTalks on Instagram, TikTok or Twitter, which are all already taken. Picking the wrong domain extension A U.S.-focused tech company uses TechWizard.io, but many users assume it’s .com, leading to misdirected traffic and lost credibility. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Learn more: how to buy a domain from Wix. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. Domain naming mistakes FAQ What is the single biggest domain naming mistake to avoid? Founders flagged it more than anything else: a name that is hard to spell or pronounce. If a customer can’t repeat your domain after hearing it once, you lose traffic to typos, lose word-of-mouth referrals and spend more on ads to compensate.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ The rules of online branding are being rewritten, right before our eyes. Things that we used to consider basic elements of branding are now being called into question. Domains are one of them. I was recently asked, “Will my domain name matter 10 years from now?” The online world, after all, looks nothing like it did five years ago. Back then, we were preaching the importance of domain name on brand stickiness, the idea being that without a solid domain name, you’d have a hard time learning how to build a website of your own from scratch that would rank on search engines or getting customers to remember your brand. But now, we live in an era of AI search engines and de-influencing. The online world is noisier than ever. And customers are less and less attached to specific brands (one report by McKinsey found that more than 50% of GenZers in the U.S. and U.K. would ditch their favorite brands if another brand offered products that were cheaper or higher quality). So, where does that leave us? As the product manager for Wix’s domain offering, I knew I had to take a closer look. 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: Will your domain matter in 10 years? Domains aren’t going away, but how we use them is changing fast. AI search, voice navigation and social-first discovery are shifting some of the weight off the URL itself. To future-proof your domain, pick a name that’s short, brandable and unambiguous, secure the matching social handles and email and treat your domain as core brand IP worth renewing and protecting. You’ll learn: How domains have evolved over the past decade Why domains still matter in the age of AI search Traits of a future-proof domain name How to protect your domain from typo-squatters and bad actors When to consider a domain refresh or rebrand How AI and voice search are changing branding Domains, then vs. now Most of us wouldn’t realize how much has changed over the years when it comes to domains. But a lot has happened. The biggest changes worth calling out: The rise of new domain extensions: Most site owners used to only entertain .org versus .com. But these days, the list of generic top-level domains (gTLDs) is growing to include .tech, .shop, .xyz, .gifts and others. This has allowed businesses to align their domains more closely with their industry, geography or brand identity. Popularity of premium domains: The demand for premium domains, or popular domain extensions that are short, keyword-rich and easy to remember (e.g., hotels.com), has been steadily growing over the years. Some businesses are now willing to pay a pretty penny for them. For example, CarInsurance.com was sold for $49.7 million in 2019. (View 20 of the most expensive domain names ever sold.) Increased demand for personal branding: The growth of the creator economy has, in part, led to the rise in individuals and influencers who are using custom domain names for personal branding (e.g., janesmith.dev or myportfolio.me). Learn more about what what custom domains are. Emphasis on privacy and security: There’s a growing demand for domains that bundle features like SSL certificates and privacy protection. As site owners are becoming more educated on website security, they are starting to expect domain registrars to offer security features out of the box. While it’d be impossible for me to pinpoint exactly when all of these changes came to be, here’s a rough breakdown of my observations. Related reading: The basics of website infrastructure, or what is a domain? Learn more: how to build a website of your own from scratch. Find the perfect domain name on Wix. The future of domains: where we’re headed Considering how things have been changing, I’d bet money on certain things happening further down the road. Namely: More and more people will adopt niche domains: I predict that more businesses will turn to gTLDs like .design, .shop or .tech to stand out in crowded markets. AI will play a big role: At Wix, we’ve already built an AI-powered domain engine that has benefited tons of users, and these types of AI capabilities will only get better. AI will help to suggest the best, most creative domain names for businesses, while predicting how these domains will help them with their online visibility. We’ll have high standards for security: Rather than being viewed as optional add-ons, SSL certificates, DNS security and privacy protection will become baseline offerings. Domain providers in general will need to abide by stricter global privacy and security regulations, such as GDPR-style policies. New tech will influence domain trains: New technologies might facilitate processes, such as reclaiming unused or parked domains, to make more names available. In addition to this, advancements like voice search will influence brands to purchase domains that are easy to pronounce or remember, and AI-driven search engines will reduce brands’ reliance on traditional SEO. And because I like to visualize my thoughts, here’s an updated version of the table from above. So, will your domain name matter in 10 years? My final answer: yes. I’d even go as far as saying that your domain will become integral to your digital identity, if it isn’t already. While the role of domains is evolving, their impact is as strong as ever. For example, even though your domain name might not matter as much for SEO, it’ll serve as your name tag online. It’ll still help people recall and locate your brand. You could link your domain to a decentralized profile, where consumers and technologies (like AI search engines) can see what you’re all about. And you can always trust that your domain is something that you fully own, providing stability and independence from third-party algorithms or policies. Therefore, a strong domain name will continue to anchor your brand’s identity and serve as its home base in the digital ecosystem. 10 tips for future-proofing your domain Taking everything we discussed into account, here are some of my recommendations for how to safeguard your domain in the long run. 01. Prioritize branding over keywords Just like the name you give your pet, the name you give your domain should be meaningful. For this reason, you’ll want to avoid keyword-stuffing or choosing a domain name just because it sounds trendy. At the same time, avoid a name that’s too niche because it might cause complications later on. Instead, think about how you want to expand your brand and try to pick a name that works, both now and in the future. 02. Keep it simple Short, easy-to-spell names are more likely to be remembered, especially in the age of voice and social searches. In general, you’ll want to avoid complex spelling, hyphens or numbers. Note that these types of domains are also easy to read and type out on smaller screens, which is (and will remain) important in our mobile-first reality. 03. Invest in the right extension A .com domain is still the gold standard for credibility, but new gTLDs can work well if they align with your brand’s industry or goals. A creative gTLD like .store or .tech could communicate what your brand is about, even before someone clicks on it. Local businesses can consider geographic TLDs like .mx or .london that, once again, can appeal to the right crowd. Explore a list of TLDs that are trending. 04. Buy from a reliable registrar Don’t just buy from any domain registrar you stumble across. Look for a registrar with a reputation for strong security practices, including encryption and proactive monitoring. You’ll be grateful you did, as a reputable registrar can reduce the risk of hacking, unauthorized changes or potential domain hijacking. In this sense, having everything in one place could also work to your benefit. For example, using Wix, you can buy a domain, manage your domain and manage the website it’s connected to, all from the same platform. This reduces security risks by limiting potential points of compromise and providing unified security features, including centralized support. Plus, it’s cost-effective (every Wix plan includes a free domain for one year) and saves time on setup and maintenance. Read also: Best place to buy a domain name 05. Secure complementary domains to protect your brand Investing in domain variations is a strategic move to protect your brand’s online identity and avoid issues like domain squatting or misuse. Consider purchasing domain variations that: Relate to a future product, service or campaign. This prevents others from preempting or capitalizing on your ideas. Example: if your company plans to launch a new app called “BrightPath,” register brightpath.com, alongside related domain names or TLDs like brightpathapp.com and brightpath.tech. Is specific to another region that you serve. If your brand operates internationally, consider domains in other languages or that use country-specific TLDs, like .uk, .fr and .de. Include a common misspelling, abbreviation or hyphenated version of your domain. Example: If your brand is brightideas.com, consider purchasing briteideas.com or bright-ideas.com too. This helps to ensure that customers trying to reach you won’t end up on a competitor’s or malicious site. Could be mistaken for your brand’s property. Registering similar domain names prevents competitors or bad actors from hijacking your brand equity or impersonating your business. This is especially critical for high-profile brands or industries prone to phishing scams (e.g., finance, tech). It’s important to pay attention to brand variations, especially if: Your brand name is distinctive or has high visibility You’re in a competitive or scam-prone industry The cost of securing variations is small compared to potential brand damage or customer confusion 06. Practice healthy habits for managing a domain portfolio If you’re managing multiple domains or plan to grow your portfolio, make sure you have a system in place for managing them effectively. Use domain monitoring tools, such as alerts, to track when desired domains become available or if someone registers a similar domain. As a best practice, consolidate your domains under one registrar to reduce complexity and to stay on top of renewals. Read also: 6 signs that it's time to change your domain 07. Monitor domain expiration dates closely Domains need to be renewed before they expire. Otherwise, someone might snatch up your domain and take it over. Use tools or registrar services to monitor expiration dates and set up renewal alerts. If you manage your domain with Wix, you’ll get emails as the expiration date approaches and/or can set up auto-renew. 08. Back up your domain data Keep a backup of your domain’s registration data, including registration details, expiration dates and any associated services (like email and hosting). In case of a security breach, you’ll need a backup of your domain details to quickly recover your domain and regain control. 09. Implement WHOIS privacy protection WHOIS privacy (or domain privacy) hides your personal contact details from public domain registration databases, which are accessible through a WHOIS lookup. This helps to prevent spam, phishing and social engineering attacks by obscuring your personal information. Furthermore, it protects your privacy and reduces the chances of malicious actors targeting your domain. Most major registrars provide WHOIS privacy services. Make sure to enable this option from your account. 10. Consider adding DNSSEC (domain name system security extensions) DNSSEC adds an extra layer of security to your domain’s DNS (domain name system, which is essentially the phone book of the internet), making it harder for attackers to redirect traffic to malicious websites. Check that your domain registrar and DNS hosting provider support DNSSEC (not all do). Then, log into your account with your DNS hosting provider and follow the instructions to enable this option. Ready to jumpstart your business? Try our website builder for free. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. Future-proofing your domain FAQ Should I buy multiple domain extensions to protect my brand? Most established brands register a small portfolio of common extensions like .com, .net and the country code TLD where they operate, plus obvious typos of their main domain. This blocks copycats and protects the brand long-term without significant cost.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ 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. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: Domain hosting vs. web hosting Domain hosting points your domain at the right servers using DNS records. Web hosting stores the actual files of your website and serves them to visitors. They are related but separate parts of your website infrastructure. Knowing which one you need (and where each lives) makes domain transfers, email setup and site migrations far less stressful. You’ll learn: What domain hosting actually covers What web hosting actually covers Side-by-side differences between the two How DNS records connect domain hosting to web hosting When to use one provider for both vs. separate providers How to migrate without downtime 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. Learn more: what a domain is. 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. Learn more: website infrastructure. 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. Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? 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 from scratch 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: How does web hosting work? 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.” Explore this website inspiration and personal website examples for inspiration. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. 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. Do I need both domain hosting and web hosting for my site? Yes. Every live website needs domain hosting (so the domain resolves to an IP address) and web hosting (so there is a server delivering your pages). Many providers bundle them together so the distinction is invisible to you, but both services are running behind the scenes.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ Getting a domain name is an exciting step towards establishing an online presence, whether you're starting a business, making an eCommerce website or want to create a blog. However, once the initial thrill of purchasing a domain subsides, many are left wondering about the next steps required to turn a domain into a functional website. In this article, we'll guide you through the essential steps you need to make the most of your domain investment. We'll outline everything from selecting the right hosting platform to protecting and maintaining your domain name. Use a domain name generator if you need help coming up with an idea. Already have an idea? Check the availability with a domain name search tool. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: What to do after you register a domain Getting a domain is just step one. Next you connect it to a website, set up a custom business email, secure it with SSL and DNS protection, enable privacy and auto-renew and start building visibility through SEO and marketing. These eight steps turn an idle domain into a working asset for your business. You’ll learn: How to connect your domain to a website How to create a custom business email Why SSL matters and how to enable it How to set up DNS records correctly Privacy protection and why it is worth turning on Auto-renew and how to never lose your domain Building SEO and marketing momentum from day one 8 steps to take after buying a domain name Sync your domain and hosting Use your domain for a custom email address Create a website that’s attached to your domain Match your social media account names to your domain Register and trademark your domain Maintain and protect your domain Optimize for search engines (SEO) Sell your domain name (optional) 01. Sync your domain and hosting The first step after securing your domain is to sync it with your hosting provider. A domain name is your website's URL, but you need hosting to have a place where your website's files live. Think of hosting as renting space on the internet. Without hosting, your domain is just an empty lot. When you register a domain name with Wix, it's already connected to secure web hosting once you build a website. Otherwise, you'll need to sync your domain with your hosting and update your domain's Domain Name System (DNS) settings. This involves pointing your domain name to your hosting server using nameservers provided by your host. Most of the best domain registrars and hosting providers offer clear instructions or even tools to streamline this process. Once the DNS settings are configured, it may take a few hours for the changes to propagate across the web. Selecting a reliable hosting website is crucial for the performance and stability of your website. A good hosting provider ensures that your website runs smoothly and remains accessible to customers at all times. When choosing a hosting platform, consider the following factors: Uptime guarantee: Look for a provider that offers a high uptime percentage, ideally 99.9%. This ensures your website is available when customers need it. Scalability: Choose a hosting plan that can grow with your business. As your customer base expands, you may need additional resources, so consider platforms that offer easy upgrades. Speed and performance: Fast loading times are essential for a positive user experience. Research the hosting service's speed performance and read up on reviews from other users. Customer support: Having reliable support can make a significant difference when facing technical issues. Opt for a hosting provider that offers 24/7 customer support via multiple channels, such as live chat, phone or business email. Security features: Ensure the hosting provider offers robust website security measures, including SSL certificates, malware protection and regular backups to keep your data safe and maintain customer trust. Learn more about how to secure your domain name. Cost and value: While it's important to stay within budget, make sure to evaluate the overall value offered by the hosting service, including features, support and site reliability. Tip: When you choose a domain name and make a website with Wix, free website hosting is included. New to domain names? Learn more about what is a domain and how to choose a domain name. 02. Use your domain for a custom email address Learn how to create a business email with your domain name (e.g., info@yourdomain.com) to look professional and build trust with your audience. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, it's key to establishing credibility right from the start. Plus, it helps keep business and personal emails separate. You can often set up a custom business email through your hosting provider, and many hosting plans include email services. Once it's set up, integrate it with your platforms and devices for seamless communication. Learn more: starting a business. 03. Create a website that’s attached to your domain Your domain is the gateway to everything online, and understanding how to make a website of your own from scratch is the next critical step. A website showcases your products, services or ideas to the world. Decide whether you want a simple website, a blog or an eCommerce store, depending on your goals and audience. Each type serves a unique purpose, so choose the one that aligns with your vision. Learn more: making an eCommerce website. For new website owners, this may seem challenging, but with the right tools and guidance, it's completely achievable. Choose a website builder that’s easy to use and provides all the tools you need to create a professional-looking site. Wix offers user-friendly interfaces and customizable website templates, making it easier for beginners to create professional-looking sites. Design your website with your audience in mind. Make it visually appealing, easy to navigate and mobile-friendly. Content is king, so focus on creating engaging and informative material that aligns with your goals. Include essential sections like 'About Us,' 'Contact' and 'Services' or 'Products.' Once your website is ready, connect it to your domain, making your vision a reality. 04. Match your social media account names to your domain Consistency is key when building a brand online. Matching your social media account names to your domain name helps create a unified brand identity across platforms. It makes it easier for your audience to find you and enhances brand recognition. Start by checking availability on major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Aim to secure handles that closely match your domain name. If your exact domain name isn't available, consider variations that still reflect your brand. Once your accounts are set up, ensure they are linked to your website. Use your domain name in your bio or profile description, and include links to your website in your posts or updates. This not only drives traffic to your site but also enhances your credibility and authority in your field. 05. Register and trademark your domain Securing your domain is just the beginning. To protect your brand, consider registering and trademarking your domain name. This legal protection prevents others from using your domain name or a similar one, helping to safeguard your brand's identity and reputation. To register your trademark, conduct a search to ensure that your domain name isn't already in use. Then, file a trademark application with the relevant governmental authority. In the U.S., this would be the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The process can be intricate, so consulting with a legal expert in trademark law might be beneficial. You can read our in-depth guide on how to trademark a domain for more information. While registration and trademarking come with costs, they offer long-term benefits by reducing risks of legal disputes and protecting your brand's value. It's a critical step for entrepreneurs and small business owners aiming for growth and recognition in the marketplace. Learn more about how to register a domain name. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup. 06. Maintain and protect your domain Owning a domain is not a one-time event; it requires ongoing domain management, maintenance and protection. Regularly renew your domain registration to avoid losing it. Set up automatic renewals with your registrar to prevent lapse and ensure uninterrupted online presence. Protect your domain from cyber threats by implementing security measures. Enable domain privacy protection to shield your personal information from public WHOIS databases. Consider adding SSL certificates to encrypt data transferred between your website and users, enhancing trust and potentially boosting search engine rankings. All Wix sites come with an SSL certificate, providing added security and peace of mind. Monitor your domain's performance and reputation. Use tools to track uptime, site speed and SEO metrics. Staying proactive about maintenance ensures your website remains accessible, secure and effective in reaching your goals. 07. Optimize for search engines (SEO) SEO helps your website get noticed in search results and attracts organic traffic. Start with keyword research to understand what your audience is searching for, and naturally include those terms in your content. Optimize your pages by using these keywords in headings, subheadings and even your URLs. Keep your content structured, clear and easy to navigate. Add meta tags, like title tags and meta descriptions, to give search engines and users a quick overview of your page. Make sure your site is mobile-friendly, search engines prioritize mobile-first indexing. Link building is another key step. Gain credibility by earning backlinks from trusted sources, and improve navigation with internal links. Don’t forget about speed, optimize your images and reduce unnecessary scripts to make your site load faster. Keep your content fresh and engaging. Regular updates, like blog posts or resources, help your site stay relevant and target a wider range of keywords over time. By leveraging these SEO features and strategies, you’ll build a solid SEO foundation that boosts your visibility and helps your audience easily find the information they need. 08. Sell your domain name (optional) While not everyone intends to sell their domain name, domain flipping it's a viable option if you're looking to pivot or monetize your investment. Some domain names hold significant value due to their keywords, length or industry relevance. Research the market to determine your domain's worth. Ensure a smooth transfer process by working with your registrar or a domain broker. Selling your domain can be a strategic move, providing financial returns and opening opportunities for new ventures. Learn more: How to transfer a domain name, Most common industry domain names Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. I have a domain name, now what? FAQ How long after purchasing a domain can you use it? After purchasing a domain, you can typically use it immediately. However, it may take up to 48 hours for the domain to fully propagate and be visible on the internet. During this time, you may experience some temporary issues with accessing your website or emails associated with the domain. If issues persist after 48 hours, contact your hosting provider for assistance. Do I need a website if I have a domain name? While having a website is highly recommended for businesses and individuals looking to establish an online presence, it’s not necessary to have one just because you have a domain name. Some people purchase domains solely for email purposes or to secure their brand identity online without having an active website, often resulting in a parked domain. When you buy a domain name, do you own it? Yes, when you purchase a domain name, you own the rights to that specific domain for the registration period. However, it’s important to note that you do not own the internet itself or have exclusive rights to use certain words or phrases in other contexts. Additionally, if you fail to renew your domain registration, you may lose ownership of the domain. It's crucial to regularly maintain and protect your domain to ensure its continued ownership. So make sure you keep an eye on your domain expiration dates and set up automatic renewals with your registrar. Can I change my domain name after purchasing it? Yes, it is possible to change a domain name after purchasing it. However, this process can be complex and may involve transferring the registration to a different registrar or purchasing a new domain altogether. It's essential to carefully consider your options and consult with an expert before making any changes to your domain name. Can I permanently own my own domain name? You can’t permanently own a domain name, but you can make managing it simple. Domains are registered for specific periods and need to be renewed to keep your ownership active. If you don’t renew, the domain could become available for someone else to claim. By setting up automatic renewals, you can ensure you never lose your domain, making it easy to keep it for as long as you need. What should I do with my domain name? Your domain can serve various purposes. Use it to launch a personal blog, create a professional business website or set up branded email addresses. If you’re not ready to launch a website, you can park the domain or redirect it to an existing site. Be sure to secure your domain with privacy protection and keep it active with auto-renewal. 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. I have a domain name, now how do I create a website? If you have a registered domain name, or just a name that needs registering, the most efficient and effective way to create a website is with a website builder, like Wix. They offer secure and reliable hosting plus domain name search and registration for a seamless website creation process. Does your domain name matter? Yes, your domain name matters significantly. It’s often the first impression of your brand, influencing credibility, memorability and trust with your audience. A strong domain name that’s short, relevant and easy to spell can boost brand recognition and make it easier for customers to find you online. Additionally, a well-chosen domain can improve SEO, helping your website rank higher in search results. Do I need to set up a website right away after registering a domain? No. You can hold a domain without building a site on it. Many businesses park a placeholder or a coming soon page in the meantime and configure email so the domain still works while the full site is in progress.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ Domain offerings tend to be pretty straightforward. An SMB, creator or entrepreneur looks to secure real estate online, leading them to purchase their unique domain name. They choose their domain and continue on their business journey, deciding how to build your own website, how to set up digital marketing campaigns and more. But domain innovation is an untapped power. There are so many ways to work with domains and so much underutilized opportunity, from enabling small businesses to better envision their new domain and website, to paving more accessible and plentiful roads toward a successful purchase. To reel in customers, a B2B partnership with a company that offers the best in domain and web innovation can be exactly the key. Let’s look at some examples of domain innovation: One step beyond the domain Making the domain offering proactive Domain innovation with B2B partners Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: Domain innovation in B2B partnerships Domains are no longer just a basic registration line item. For B2B partners, smart domain strategy can be a competitive edge: pairing premium domains with adjacent tools like website preview, single sign-on and integrated business email helps you attract new customers, deepen partnerships and open up new revenue streams across the SMB ecosystem. You’ll learn: Why domain innovation matters for B2B partnerships How premium domains drive customer acquisition Ways to differentiate your domain product offering The role of website preview and showcase tools Real examples of domain-led B2B partnerships How Wix supports B2B partners with domain solutions One step beyond the domain Sometimes it’s not about the domain itself, but what comes afterward. Giving customers a glimpse into what their domain purchase can lead to, a complete and custom web presence, is a convincing way to encourage a decision. Take Wix for example. The Wix platform is the best web builder for SMBs. With top expertise in both websites and domains, the company can connect the puzzle pieces of an SMB’s journey. Wix’s website preview solution, also available externally, allows customers to see a sample website that matches their potential domain. Learn more: how to build your own website. Say a baker named Terry decides to start a business selling homemade organic cakes and desserts. Terry is interested in a domain called terryorganicdream.shop. But they aren’t quite ready to make the leap online. The custom domain looks nice, but the idea of building a website and selling online is intimidating. Plus, Terry isn’t much of a designer. The thought of a new project makes them drop out mid-journey, step away from the screen and focus on their next batch of cookies instead. Now imagine that as soon as Terry chooses their domain, they have the opportunity to see a full-blown website preview. The site is an online store showcasing Terry’s mouth-watering desserts, with a quick button to order. And the brand name “Terry’s Organic Dream” is already displayed front and center on the homepage, in a playful font with vibrant colors. Suddenly building and launching a website is not a distant or difficult dream, but an exciting and promising reality just within reach. Making the domain offering proactive Let’s go back to the earlier stages of the domain journey. Domain name generator Besides the usual domain name search, customers may be more engaged by the experience of a domain name generator. Unlike a regular search, a domain name generator is a proactive tool that leverages AI to offer customers a fitting domain. Customers are prompted to enter a keyword or phrase related to their brand, and the tool comes back with a slew of relevant domain name options. Domain name suggestions Then there’s domain suggestions. With this tool, customers enter a potential domain name and receive the best-match options that are available. The tool is like a professional partner, highlighting one or two top recommendations to guide customers and streamline the selection process. A full list of additional available options is also provided in case the customer wants to explore different directions. Domain extensions tools and resources Another strategy in domain registry is educating customers on the different popular domain extensions available to small businesses. While .com still remains the most popular top-level domain worldwide, there are many other worthy options out there that are gaining traction. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority currently lists over 1,500 domain extensions, that’s a whole world of real estate for small businesses to explore. Providing customers with educational resources like blog articles, videos and quick tips can support them in their domain name search and TLD selection. From business type extensions like .shop or .org to locations like .us or .world to more creative options like .pro or .today, raising awareness of domain extension options can empower creators and small businesses and give them a new outlook on their future online presence. Link in bio products For certain customers like artists, influencers and entrepreneurs, there is another great way to supplement their domain name. These customers may be looking to claim their personal identity online with a relevant domain extension like .bio, .me or .link. Offering this together with link in bio products creates the perfect combination. It lets customers strengthen and connect the dots of their online presence, from domain to website to social media. Domain innovation with B2B partners Innovation, like happiness, is best when shared. B2B partnerships provide a way for brands to join forces in creating the most enticing domain offering for small businesses, without having to develop all the solutions in house. For example, Name.com partnered with Wix to offer websites to customers, helping to provide them with a full online identity. The partnership includes Wix’s website preview solution, showing customers what their potential website would look like based on their domain name preference. In the first period, Name.com saw a whopping 551% increase in web builder sign ups compared to their previous free trial offering. The right innovative solutions from the right B2B partner can completely revamp an offering. VistaPrint partnered with Wix to offer customers both domains and websites. Through Wix’s unique Domain API, Vista is able to provide customers with a fully functional domain name checker and suggestions, right on its own marketing pages. Customers can then build out their own website from there, or choose to do so first before purchasing a domain. This partnership allows Vista, best known for print, logo and design, to provide the next step in best-in-class online branding and business solutions to customers. With so many innovative ways to work with domains, those in the industry face three options: develop competitive solutions in house, partner with a leader in domains and website building, or find the balance in both. Those with the power to shake up domain offerings will see the impact directly in their customers’ success. Related reading: Becoming the compass: a proactive approach to B2B success management Learn how a channel partnership with Wix can drive growth for your business and your SMB customers. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. B2B domain partnerships FAQ What makes a B2B domain partnership successful? Strong B2B domain partnerships pair a reliable registrar with the adjacent tools your customers actually need, such as website building, business email and SSL, and offer co-branded onboarding flows so partners can deliver a smooth end-to-end experience to their users.

The perfect domain is just a click away: find your domain→ A domain name registrar is a company or organization accredited to manage the reservation, registration and management of domain names. They act as an intermediary between individuals or businesses and what is known as global internet web infrastructure. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: What is a domain name registrar? A domain name registrar is an ICANN-accredited company authorized to sell and manage domain names. They handle the registration, renewal, transfer and DNS settings of your domain, and they are the front door to the wider domain system. Choosing a reputable registrar matters for security, support and pricing transparency over the long life of your domain. You’ll learn: What a domain registrar does and does not do How registrars work with ICANN and registries Why your choice of registrar matters long-term Pricing, hidden fees and renewal traps to watch for How to evaluate registrar security and support How to transfer your domain to a different registrar How domain registrars work Registrars allow you to search for available domains, purchase them and then maintain their registration. They make it possible to check and be sure that your chosen domain name is unique and not already in use. They're also integral to the Domain Name System (DNS) , a hierarchical system that translates human-friendly domain names into IP addresses, so browsers can locate and access websites. Registrars manage the DNS records associated with each registered domain. When it comes to your website and online business, a domain name is important to helping you to stand out and build a brand. Much like with your company or brand name, it will become something your customers trust and recognize. This makes it important to not only choose the right one but to make sure you choose and register it with a reputable domain name registrar, so you know it's yours for as long as you need it. You can't own a domain name permanently but a solid domain name registrar will make sure you can renew it easily every year, or according to other set renewal cycles, so that you have it for your business no matter what. What do domain name registrars do? Domain registration: Registrars enable users to search for and register available domain names, ensuring each domain is unique and not already in use.​ Learn more about how to choose a domain name. DNS management: They provide tools to manage Domain Name System (DNS) settings, allowing users to connect their domain to websites, email services and other online platforms.​ WHOIS database maintenance: Registrars maintain records of domain ownership, including contact information, accessible through the WHOIS database.​ Domain renewals and transfers: They handle the renewal of domain registrations and facilitate the transfer of domains between different registrars as needed.​ Additional services: Many registrars offer supplementary services such as web hosting, email hosting, SSL certificates and privacy protection.​ As Noah Lopata, the owner of Epidemic Marketing shares: "Always buy your own domain directly from a registrar. I've seen too many businesses lose their entire online presence because someone else controlled their domain. One of my Denver clients lost a 10-year-old domain with solid SEO rankings because their previous agency owned it and refused to transfer it during a dispute." Domain name registrars and ICANN The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to namespaces on the internet. What does ICANN do in relation to domain registrars? ICANN accredits registrars, checking and enforcing that they meet specific standards and guidelines. This accreditation is essential for a secure and reliable domain registration process that you can rely on. ICANN enforces compliance with policies designed to protect registrants' rights and ensure security across the internet. It plays a pivotal role in preventing fraudulent activities related to domain registrations. Domain registrar vs registry vs registrant When it comes to understanding what a domain name registrar is there is some terminology that's important to know, as each is a crucial part of the domain name system. These are: Registrar: A company authorized by ICANN to sell domain names directly to consumers. They provide services such as DNS management and customer support. Registry: An organization responsible for managing top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com or .org. They maintain a database of all registered domains within their TLDs. Registrant: The individual or business that registers a domain name through a registrar. As a registrant, you hold the rights to use that specific domain name for your website or email services for the agreed upon time period with your registrar. How to choose the right domain name registrar Selecting the right domain registrar is a critical decision for your business, as it impacts your website and branding online. With over 171 million .com and .net domains registered at the end of the third quarter of 2025, you’re entering a highly competitive space. Some criteria to look at include: Customer service Reliable customer service is essential, so look for registrars, like Wix, that offer 24/7 support and multiple contact options, such as phone, email and live chat. This should mean you can resolve any issues quickly and without any stress. Pricing Compare pricing structures among registrars and not just the the initial registration cost but also renewal fees and any additional charges. Transparent pricing helps avoid unexpected expenses. With Wix, a customizable domain name is free with a paid website plan. Reputation Research the reputation of potential registrars by reading reviews and recommendations from other businesses. A reputable registrar will have a track record of reliability and customer satisfaction. What are some popular domain registrars? If you need a free web hosting platform in addition to a domain name, then choosing Wix is a good idea. On top of a long list of website templates and Wix features for building a professional online presence, you’ll get access to powerful domain management tools, such as privacy protection (WHOIS protection), easy transfer, subdomains and a business email address. Furthermore, Wix will also provide you with 24/7 security monitoring, HTTPS and SSL protection, which are essential when you're learning how to make a website. Other popular options include name.com, domain.com, Namecheap and Bluehost. Learn more: Best domain registrars What are some other services domain registrars might offer? Domain registrars often provide a range of additional services that can enhance your online capabilities and website. These services go beyond basic domain registration, offering business tools and features. Google workspace integration Some registrars offer seamless integration with Google Workspace, enabling you to set up professional email addresses and access Google's suite of productivity tools. This integration can enhance collaboration and communication within your business. For example, in some regions you can purchase a personalized Google Workspace business email directly from Wix (e.g. yourname@mybusiness.org). Domain name generator A domain name generator can not only help you come up a domain name you love, it can also help you check that your domain name is available. What are the benefits of choosing an all-in-one domain registrar? Opting for a registrar that provides a wide array of services can be advantageous in a few ways. One of these is convenience. Managing multiple aspects of your website through a single provider simplifies administration and reduces the complexity of dealing with multiple vendors. Bundling services such as hosting, email and security features with domain registration can also lead to cost savings compared to purchasing each service separately. It also makes them easier to manage from one provider. Choosing the best domain registrar for multiple domains For businesses with multiple domains, effective management of your domain portfolio is important A well-organized portfolio ensures that all your domains are used efficiently and remain secure. Choose a registrar that offers tools for managing multiple domains from a single dashboard. This centralization simplifies tasks such as renewals, DNS updates and contact information changes. Enable automated renewal options to prevent accidental expiration of critical domains. This feature ensures continuous ownership and avoids disruptions to your online presence. As Lawrence Irby, the president of Bay Area House Buyer explains: "I remember wondering if buying alternate domain names was really necessary or just a marketing gimmick. But then a competitor scooped up a variation of ours and ran ads against it, which created a lot of confusion for sellers reaching out. We ended up buying the additional extensions and misspellings to prevent that from happening again. If your business is growing fast, it's worth locking up the main variations too." 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. Ready to buy a website domain name? Get started with Wix today. Domain registration with Wix Wix offers more than 400 domain extensions, giving you flexibility to find a web address that fits your business, brand or target audience. As an ICANN-accredited domain registrar, Wix lets you search, register and manage domains ranging from classic options like .com and .net to newer industry-focused extensions, all in one place. Beyond registration, Wix includes built-in tools for DNS management, domain security and private registration, along with a free SSL certificate to help protect your site and visitors. You can also create a custom business email, get a free one-year domain voucher with eligible annual plans and access 24/7 support whenever you need help managing your domain. Ready to secure your domain? Search for your perfect name and register it in just a few clicks with Wix. What is a domain name registrar? FAQ How do I find out the registrar of a domain? You can find out who a domain’s registrar is by doing a WHOIS lookup. This shows information about the domain’s registration, including the registrar, registration and expiration dates, and sometimes the owner’s contact info (unless privacy protection is enabled). Many websites offer free WHOIS lookup tools, or you can check directly through ICANN’s official WHOIS database. What's the difference between a web host and a domain registrar? A domain registrar manages the reservation, registration and ownership of your domain name. A web host provides the servers and technology that make your website accessible on the internet. While some companies offer both services, like Wix, which lets you register a domain and host your website in one platform, they serve different purposes: the registrar handles the domain, the host handles your website’s files and performance. What is the difference between a registrar, a registry and a registrant? The registry runs a top-level domain like .com (Verisign in that case). The registrar is the company you buy from, accredited by ICANN to sell domains within those TLDs. The registrant is you, the person or business who owns the domain. All three play a role in keeping your domain registered and resolving.