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- How to register a domain name for your website
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain → Your website starts with a name and a good one makes all the difference. Choosing and registering a domain name can feel tricky—names get snapped up fast, extensions can be confusing and tech details can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to slow you down. This guide walks you through the process step by step so you can claim a domain that fits your brand, works for your audience and gets your website online. TL;DR: How to register a domain name Registering your domain starts with picking a registrar you trust and a name that perfectly fits your brand. After you make sure it's available and choose the right domain extension just enter your details and complete the registration. Next you’ll connect it to your website or email manage your DNS settings and set up privacy protection. Don't forget to keep an eye on renewals to stay in control. While you can also transfer domains or buy pre-owned ones staying on top of management and security is what makes it work for your business. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place—business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. You’ll learn: How to pick a memorable, brand-ready domain name How to check availability and what to do if your preferred domain is taken Free vs paid domains and understanding long-term costs How to choose the right domain extension How to transfer a domain without downtime Common security risks and how to protect your domain What happens after registration, including DNS setup, renewals and ownership Legal considerations, including trademarks, copyrights and compliance What is a domain name? What is a domain name , exactly? This term describes the address that you type into a browser to arrive at a website. It is essentially a website’s home, so every domain is unique. An example is www.wix.com. Domain names were created so people could more easily access a website’s Internet Protocol (IP ), a string of numbers representing individual websites. Every URL has an IP address, and unless you are a computer, a domain is much simpler to remember than a string of numbers. For example, take the IP address 185.230.63.164: to most, this is just a complicated string of numbers. Its domain name, wix.com , is not only easy to remember, but it also conveys a distinct brand that numbers cannot. How to register a domain name Select a domain registrar Choose the best domain name Check the availability of your domain name Select your domain extension Enter your details Purchase your domain To register a domain, choose a trusted registrar, pick an available name and extension, enter your contact and payment details and complete the purchase. Connect it to your website or email and enable privacy and auto-renew to keep it secure. 01. Select a domain registrar Before you can start choosing a domain name, you need to first know where and how to buy a domain name . A domain registrar is a company that reserves and manages domain names. While the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers ( ICANN ) manages all domains worldwide, a registrar deals with ICANN on your behalf. When picking a domain registrar , choose a company with a good reputation reliable customer support and strong security. Check out their domain extensions renewal policies and transfer rules. See if they offer extras like email hosting or SSL certificates. Make sure they’re ICANN-accredited and offer privacy protection to keep your personal info safe. When choosing among the best domain registrars , keep in mind: Customer support: Check if the registrar offers 24/7 support, accessible via phone, live chat or email. Reliable customer support can be crucial if you encounter technical issues or need help managing your domain. Range of domain extensions: Consider the variety of domain extensions (TLDs) available, especially if you're interested in less common or niche extensions, such as .tech, .ai or country-specific domains. Additional offerings: Look for value-added services such as web hosting, email hosting, SSL certificates and a free website builder , which can simplify managing your online presence in one. Reputation: Research the registrar’s reputation by reading customer reviews and checking industry ratings. A trustworthy registrar with a good track record is less likely to experience outages or take unexpected actions like domain locking or price hikes. Security: Consider the infrastructure the registrar has in place to ensure your domain is secure. Attacks specifically targeting domains include domain hijacking, DNS spoofing , DDoS attacks , typosquatting, domain squatting and malware distribution, so make sure you understand how to secure your domain. Privacy: Look for a registrar that offers domain privacy protection to keep your personal information safe from public Whois searches. With Wix you can opt for domain privacy for no extra fee, when you register your domain. ICANN accreditation: Choose a registrar accredited by ICANN to ensure they follow industry standards and operate legitimately. Renewal fees: Pay attention to the renewal costs of your domain. While initial prices are often low, you’ll need to renew periodically, so understanding ongoing fees is important to avoid surprises. Learn more: how much does an SSL certificate cost? Tip: With Wix, you can get a unique domain and create your site all in one place. When you upgrade to a premium plan , you’ll even get a voucher for a free domain name for your first year. All Wix sites come with SSL and TLS protocols for added security plus you can set up a custom business email to help you build your brand. Register your domain → 02. Choose the best domain name You must consider many factors when choosing a domain name for your site. First, select a name that reflects your brand’s tone and messaging. Stick to a name that is short and catchy, so that people can easily remember it, such as nbc.com. To improve your SEO efforts, you can incorporate an associated keyword into your brand’s domain name, too. Basic rules for a valid domain name When selecting a domain name, it’s important to follow these basic rules to ensure it’s functional, professional and compliant with domain standards: No spaces : Keep your domain as one continuous string of characters. Stick to letters, numbers and hyphens : Special characters like @ or % aren’t allowed. Use hyphens wisely : Avoid placing them at the beginning or end and don’t use multiple hyphens in a row. Stay within the character limit : Each section of your domain can be 3–63 characters with a total length of up to 253 characters. Case doesn’t matter : Your domain works the same in uppercase or lowercase. Tips for a memorable and brand-friendly domain Keep it short and simple : Choose a name under 20 characters so it’s easy to remember and type. Align it with your brand : Your domain should reflect your business name or purpose to strengthen your identity. Avoid tricky combinations : Watch how words flow together to prevent accidental or confusing meanings. Stick to standard spellings : Creative spellings can be fun but might make it harder for people to find you. Try not to overcomplicate things either, as Lindsay Sutula, founder and CEO of Top Fox Marketing, says as she prioritized three key factors: simplicity, memorability and alignment with their brand identity. According to Lindsay: "I wanted a name that was easy to spell and remember, especially in an age where a strong online presence is critical. The domain had to resonate with our audience and reflect the essence of what we do-helping businesses navigate the complexities of digital marketing with clarity and strategy." Tip : Try using a website name generator to brainstorm ideas to include in your domain name. Also, consider these tips for future-proofing your domain or the best .com alternatives (according to other business owners). 03. Check the availability of your domain name Existing companies may already own your preferred domain names which is why it's important to check for availability. Try out an unlimited number of options for free on a domain name search platform. If your desired name is unavailable, the tool will come up with additional ideas. You can also play around with alternatives with a domain name generator until you find the perfect one. Once you've chosen your name and completed the process of registering it, your details including your name, email and phone number, will be submitted to the WHOIS database. This is a global resource which is publicly accessible and can be queried through the WHOIS protocol (this just means sending a request to the WHOIS server to deliver all of the stored information for a specific domain name) or through an online tool which can send the query. This information can be useful when pursuing intellectual property rights, and cybersecurity threats arising from domain name abuse or hacking. In order to run a WHOIS search, simply use Wix's Whois Lookup tool. You can block access to your information being public accessible via the WHOIS privacy protocol. This involves paying an extra fee to replace your contact information as the domain owner with a third party service. This service will then handle any messages or requests made to you via WHOIS. However this is generally not recommended for public service websites or businesses required to provide contact information. Claim a premium domain to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one. 04. Select your domain extension According to Nick Drewe, the Founder & CEO of Wethrift, Consider the extension. While .com is the go-to, don't shy away from specific ones like .store or .tech if they fit your niche. Lastly, avoid numbers and hyphens. They often confuse people—"Is that 'five' or '5'?" Plus, they just don't look as clean or professional. Understanding domain extensions and TLDs Also known as top-level domains (TLD), domain extensions quickly identify certain website elements such as purpose, owner or geographic location. There are five official types of TLDs, with generic top-level domains (gTLD) accounting for the majority of the 366 million registered domains worldwide. The most popular gTLD choices are .org, .com and .net , making them the easiest to recall. Other specific and significant domain types besides the classic .com , .co , or .net are some of the most popular domain extensions. Other specific and significant domain types besides the classic .com, .co or .net are also gaining traction. For example, .ai , originally a country code TLD for Anguilla, is now widely adopted by artificial intelligence startups and tech-forward companies due to its relevance and memorability. With over 20,000 new registrations each month, this extension continues to grow in popularity as AI-driven businesses look for names that reflect their niche. Other options include .edu and .gov. Country domain extensions, also often known as country code top level domains ( ccTLD s), are a popular choice as well, such as . co.uk (United Kingdom) or .de (Germany). You can check out ICANN’s complete list of domain extensions here . Second-level domains Generally the name you place before your extension, is referred to as the second level domain. So for example, in www.wix.com the second-level domain is "wix." Our domain name "wix.com" is registered with the ".com" top-level domain extension, which is managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and is one of the most commonly used top-level domain extensions for commercial websites. If your domain name is already taken, try it out with a different extension—you may find an available option. However, keep in mind that an extension like .org is better used for nonprofit organizations, while .com usually represents for-profit companies. Learn more with our guide to domain extensions , what .com is and what .net is . 05. Enter your details Once you’ve selected a domain name for your site, claim it before someone else does. Start by entering accurate contact details—your name, address, email and phone number. This information is essential for managing your domain and staying compliant with ICANN regulations. Double-check everything to avoid issues with renewals or updates later. Next, add your billing details to complete the registration. Make sure your payment info is current to avoid any delays. Many registrars offer an auto-renewal option, which is a great way to ensure your domain stays active without interruptions. With your details submitted, you’re ready to finalize your purchase and officially own your domain. 06. Purchase your domain Here’s how to register a domain name with Wix: Head over to the domain registrar. Type in your preferred domain name and click Search . If your name is available, click Get It to proceed. If not, browse the additional ideas or type another option into the search bar. Once you’ve found a domain name that suits your site’s needs, click Get It . Next, decide whether you’d like to register for one, two or three years. The longer your registration period, the more money you save each year. Once you’ve chosen, click Continue and continue to checkout. Connect the domain name to your site and share it with your desired audience, be it friends and family or an internet niche. Learn more: What is domain protection? Types of domains Top-level domains (TLDs) are the last part of a domain name and the highest level in the Domain Name System (DNS) . They include: Generic TLDs (gTLDs): Non-geographic domains for general use, like .com, .net and .org. There are over 1,500 gTLDs available. Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs): Geographic domains for specific countries, like .uk, .ca and .au. There are over 300 ccTLDs. Internationalized TLDs (IDN TLDs): Domains in non-Latin scripts, such as Arabic, Chinese or Cyrillic, to make the internet more accessible globally. Test TLDs: Used to test new domains before public release, not intended for general use. Learn more: Domain lifecycle What is a domain registrar? Answering 12 web domain-related questions you’re probably too shy to ask What happens after you register a domain Registering a domain is only the starting point. Once it's yours, it's time to put it to work by connecting it to your website or email service. This is done through DNS settings, which act like a map telling the internet where to find you. If you're using a website builder, this step is usually handled for you. If not, you can manually update your nameservers or DNS records to get everything connected. Next, lock down ownership basics. Turn on auto-renew so you don’t lose the domain by accident and enable domain privacy to keep your contact details out of public records. Many domains are lost because renewal emails went to an outdated address or payment failed. Taking five minutes to confirm renewal settings can save you from expensive recovery fees later. Lastly, take a moment to learn where to manage your domain. You should know how to update DNS, change contact info and review renewal dates. Treat your domain like a long-term asset, not a one-time purchase. Domain ownership and management Registering a domain gives you the exclusive right to use it, but only for the period you’ve paid for. Most domains are registered for one to ten years and ownership is maintained through timely renewals. If you renew on time, nothing changes. If you don’t, the domain doesn’t disappear instantly. It usually enters a short grace period, then a redemption phase where recovery gets more expensive, and finally it can be released back to the public. Active domain name management is key to keeping ownership intact. This means tracking expiration dates, enabling auto-renew and knowing exactly where your domain is registered. Many domains are lost simply because renewal emails were missed or went to an outdated inbox. Management also includes DNS control, transfers and registrar changes. You should know how to update name servers, lock your domain to prevent unauthorized transfers and move it if pricing or service isn’t working for you. Domain security and potential risks Domains are a common target for bad actors because they can unlock your website email and brand trust all at once. Your biggest risk is account security. If someone gets into your registrar account through a weak password reused credentials or a hacked email they can change your DNS settings redirect traffic or even transfer the domain away from you. Recovering your domain after a takeover is a long process. It can involve identity verification registrar disputes and working with registries. While this is happening your website and email might be offline or misused. If you didn't have the right security steps in place you may not get your domain back at all. Your registration details can also be a hidden risk. Incorrect or outdated contact info can block renewals prevent transfers and cause you to fail ownership checks. Many registrars use email verification for important actions. If that email address doesn't work you can lose control without even knowing it. Transferring a domain later You’re not stuck with one registrar forever. Domains can usually be transferred after they’ve been registered for 60 days as long as they’re unlocked and you have the authorization code. Transfers are common when people consolidate services, find better renewal pricing or move their site to a new platform. The process is simple but time-sensitive. Transfers typically take a few days and require approval from both registrars. During this time, your website and email usually stay active, but mistakes like expired domains or incorrect contact emails can cause delays. Before you transfer, check renewal dates and fees. Some registrars add a year to your registration during transfer while others don’t. Planning ahead helps you avoid downtime and unexpected costs. Buying a domain that’s already taken If your ideal domain is unavailable it doesn’t always mean it’s gone for good. Many registered domains aren’t actively used and you can get them through the aftermarket. These domains are sold by their current owners often at higher prices based on demand length or keyword value. Before buying do your research. Check how the domain was previously used confirm it hasn’t been associated with spam or penalties and understand its true market value. Prices can range from reasonable to extremely high so you need to know when to walk away. In many cases a smart alternative name or different extension can perform just as well without the risk or cost. The goal isn’t owning the “perfect” domain at any price it’s choosing one that supports your brand and growth without creating unnecessary friction. Learn more: How to check if a domain name is available How to check domain authority Free domain name registration Here are a couple of ways to get a free domain name: Register a free subdomain . A subdomain is a prefix on a domain name that connects independently functioning sites. Certain hosting platforms and site builders offer users a fully-functioning website for free with a customized subdomain. For example, if you're learning how to build a website with Wix AI website builder , you can publish it for free using a URL like this: username.wixsite.com/siteaddress . Take advantage of free web hosting . Several hosting sites offer free customized domain registration with purchase, giving you a professional online presence without the cost. How much does a domain cost? While you can get a domain for free, you may want to purchase one instead. A free domain will contain a designated prefix of the registrar, which is best if you’re establishing an online presence or only temporarily need a website. If you want your website to professionally stand out and grow with your brand, however, then invest in a domain name. With Wix, the cost of a domain name depends on several factors, including: The plan you purchase Domain extension Local currency Local VAT laws However, all Wix premium plans come with a domain for one year, which otherwise cost between $14 and $39 a month. After a year, you can renew your domain for pricing plans anywhere between $13.95 and $15.95 a year. You can read more about domain name costs in detail, to understand what’s right for you and your business. Learn more: How much does a domain name cost Domain extension Typical use Starting price for 1 year at WIx Availability .com Commercial businesses, personal brands $9.90 Highly popular, often limited .org Nonprofits, charities, open communities $14.95 Moderately available .net Tech companies, networking services $14.95 More available than .com .co Startups, entrepreneurs, modern brands $30.95 Good availability . co.uk UK-based businesses or audiences $14.95 Widely used in the UK .de Germany-based businesses or audiences $14.95 Widely used in Germany .shop eCommerce stores, retail businesses $45.95 Generally good availability .online General online presence, portfolios, blogs $36.00 Generally good availability .biz Businesses and commercial use $15.95 Alternative to .com for businesses .info Informational sites, resources $16.95 Good for informational content .tech Technology startups, projects $40.00 Trending with tech-focused businesses The information presented in this table is true as of January 19th, 2026 unless mentioned otherwise. In general, some other factors to consider that can impact the cost of a domain include auto-renew costs, privacy and protection costs and transferring domains. For example, you can also purchase a domain that already exists from another person or business. This is why having a desirable domain name can be good for your bottom line—if you ever want to sell it, you can make significant money. For example, in 2010, CarInsurance.com was sold for $49.7 million as one of the ten most expensive domain names in the world . Domain name and email hosting Domain registration and email hosting are separate services, but many providers bundle them. Email hosting lets you create addresses like info@yourdomain.com, with features such as webmail access, spam filtering, virus protection and email forwarding. Bundling domain and email hosting can simplify setup and management. When choosing a provider, it’s also important to compare domain pricing , as costs can vary depending on the registrar, extension and registration length. With a website builder like Wix you can easily connect your domain and business email for a professional business website and streamlined brand building experience. Learn more: Does Wix have email for my business? Legal considerations when registering a domain Choosing a domain comes with legal responsibilities. Domains can create conflicts with trademarks, copyrights or local regulations if you’re not careful. Understanding these rules protects your website, prevents disputes and keeps your domain fully under your control. Trademarks and intellectual property Before you register a domain, do a quick trademark check. Even if a domain is available it could still infringe on another brand or product in your industry. A good place to start is your country’s trademark database. Remember to look for similar names not just exact matches. If you use a name that clashes with someone else’s trademark you could end up in a legal battle and lose your domain. Copyright considerations Steer clear of any copyrighted names, slogans or logos. This means staying away from famous phrases found in books, movies or software. Even short phrases can be protected if they’re unique to another brand. Stick to original names for your domain to avoid legal headaches and keep your site fully under your control. Accurate registration information ICANN needs your domain registration to have the right contact info, like your name, address, email and phone number. If things are out of date or wrong, you might run into trouble renewing your site, moving it or winning a dispute. Understanding registrar policies Each registrar has its own set of rules for things like renewals, transfers and domain locks. Give these terms of service a quick read so you’re always in the loop on how your domain is handled. We recommend turning on auto-renew and privacy protection—it’s an easy way to secure your ownership and keep your personal info hidden from public WHOIS records. Domain disputes and UDRP If a company claims your domain infringes on their trademark you might face a Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) claim. A UDRP is a process for settling trademark disputes and can force a transfer or cancellation of your domain. If this happens to you acting quickly with the right documents and understanding the process will help you keep it. Local regulations Country-specific domains (.uk, .de, .ca) often have eligibility rules. Some require proof of residency or business registration. Check local rules before registering to make sure your domain remains valid and avoid losing it unexpectedly. Avoiding cybersquatting Never register a domain just to resell it to another company. Cybersquatting is illegal and can lead to lawsuits, fines and forced domain transfer. Focus on choosing names that align with your brand, project or purpose to stay compliant and avoid legal issues. How to register a domain name FAQ Can I register a domain name for free? Some domain services provide free domain name registration. However you'll then have limited control over ownership of the name, and you may have to accept advertising and other conditions in exchange for a free name. How much does domain name registration cost? It varies between providers. Wix premium plans come with a domain for one year, which otherwise cost between $14 and $39 a month. After a year, you can renew your domain for pricing plans anywhere between $13.95 and $15.95 a year. How to register my domain name? Choose a domain registrar, the purchase and pricing plan you want, then choose your name. Can I register and own a domain name for forever? Generally, no. Registering a domain name does't constitute ownership of that name, it generally means you're renting it for an agreed period and it will need renewing every set number of years, according to the contract between you and your domain registrar or website builder. How to register a domain name for free? With Wix you can register a domain name for free with a paid plan, or use another free domain registrar. How to register a domain name online? To register a domain name online, you'll need to use an online domain registrar, like Wix and then follow the steps provided for registration. Can I permanently buy a domain name? No, it's not possible to permanently buy and own a domain name. They work on a leasing arrangement. They longest they can be registered for at a time is ten years and most are renewable every 1-2 years. ICANN sets the ten year limit to prevent individuals or businesses buying and hoarding domain names. It's common to ask can I buy a domain name permanently? We explain why that isn't an option and how to use a domain long term. How long do you own a domain name for? No one ever owns a domain name. They can be registered, aka leased. The maximum they can be leased for at one time is ten years. What makes a domain name valid? To be valid a domain name must meet naming protocols and be unregistered. For example, it can contain letters (English) and numbers but not special characters. It should include a recognized domain extension. Should I register my domain with an eCommerce hosting solution? If you’re planning to start an online store, consider registering your domain with an eCommerce hosting solution . This can streamline the setup process, ensuring compatibility with tools like inventory management and payment processing, while also offering a unified solution for your business. What's the easiest way to register a domain? The easiest way to register a domain, is to do it while you're building your website. If you're creating a site with a website builder you can do a domain name search, pick your name and domain extension and register it in minutes.
- What is a .co domain extension?
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain → Ever thought you found the perfect name for your business, only to discover the .com domain is already taken? That’s where .co comes in. .co is a generic top-level domain (TLD) that stands for “company” or “corporation.” Originally launched in the early 1990s for websites connected to Colombia, it has since evolved into a global favorite for anyone seeking a short, snappy and modern domain name. The turning point came in 2009, when the Colombian government transferred control of .co to CO Internet S.A.S ., a private company. This led to an ambitious global marketing campaign that repositioned .co as a versatile domain extension perfect for businesses, entrepreneurs and creatives across the world. And it paid off. From startups to major brands like Twitter, which uses t.co for its URL shortener, .co has proven itself as a smart and credible alternative to .com. Today, the .co domain is recognized as a global TLD and is part of the Domain Name System (DNS) . It's widely used by businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals seeking a memorable and relevant online identity. Learn more: What is a domain? , What is a parked domain? TL;DR: What is a .co domain extension? Looking for a domain that’s short, sharp and startup-friendly? The .co domain extension might be your perfect match. Originally the country code for Colombia, .co has grown into a global favorite among entrepreneurs, creatives and tech-savvy brands. In this post, you'll learn what a .co domain is, who it's best for and how it compares to other popular extensions like .com. You'll also get tips on how to decide if .co is right for your business, plus how to register your own .co domain with ease. Pros and cons of .co domain Pros Cons Shorter and punchier than .com People often mistype it as .com and go elsewhere Easier to find available domain names Slightly higher renewal costs (around $20–30/year) Conveys a modern, innovative brand image Less recognized by older or non-tech-savvy audiences No geographic restrictions Initial promo prices may hide higher renewal rates Great for startups and tech businesses May lack the credibility and trust of a .com domain Stands out from the crowd of .coms Some may assume it’s tied to Colombia (its original use) .co vs .com domains and which to use A .co domain often signals a forward-thinking, innovative approach. It's particularly popular among startups, tech companies and social enterprises that wish to differentiate themselves from more traditional entities. On the other hand, the .com domain remains the most recognized and established domain extension worldwide. It conveys a sense of reliability, credibility and longevity. Businesses that choose a .com domain are often perceived as being more established and traditional. This domain is ubiquitous across industries and is often the default go-to for customers typing a web address directly into a browser. I want to buy a domain, how do I go about doing it? The choice between a .co and a .com domain can affect public perception and brand positioning. Businesses must consider their target audience, industry norms and overall branding strategy when deciding between these domain extensions. When to choose .co The .co domain is a great choice for brands looking to project an innovative image. For startups aiming to align with the new economy, .co can help you stand out. It’s also a practical alternative if your ideal .com domain is already taken—allowing you to keep your branding short, clean and memorable without resorting to long or complicated URLs. Consider choosing a .co domain if: You're a tech startup breaking into a competitive industry. You're a creator or building a personal brand with a focus on a fresh and forward-thinking identity. Your brand is appealing to younger, digitally conscious audiences who associate .co with innovation and contemporary trends. When to choose .com A .com domain is ideal for businesses focused on trust and credibility. It’s familiar, professional and easy to remember—perfect for reaching broad audiences. Most people think of .com when typing a web address, making it a smart choice for businesses prioritizing recognition and reliability. Industries like finance, healthcare, retail and real estate benefit from .com, as it signals stability and professionalism. It’s also great for boosting SEO and organic traffic, as users often type .com first. Consider choosing a .com domain if: You’re building a long-term, established business with plans for growth over decades. You want to serve a wide demographic where trust and recognition are key to gaining customers. You're involved in B2B or consulting services where a polished, traditional presence matters. .co vs .com domains and how to know which to choose Feature .com domain .co domain Origin Originally for commercial use (1985) Started as Colombia's country code, now global Popularity Widely recognized and trusted Increasingly popular, especially with startups Perception Seen as professional and reliable Viewed as modern and forward-thinking Availability Many names already taken More options for short, memorable domains Best for Established companies, global audiences Startups, tech brands, personal projects Who uses .co domains? .co domains have made a name for themselves as the go-to choice for startups, tech innovators and entrepreneurs. They’re snappy, memorable and instantly recognizable, which is perfect for anyone wanting to make their mark. But what makes .co even more exciting is its global appeal - because Google recognizes it as a generic domain instead of one tied to a specific location. It works alongside .com domains for businesses with multiple global web addresses. Learn more: What's the best domain extension for a personal website Key benefits of a .co domain Some of the main reasons for using a .co domain include: Availability: because .co is newer and less crowded than .com, it’s often easier to secure a short, memorable domain name that truly fits your brand. Branding : it's trusted and associated with reputable organizations and large businesses. Major players like Twitter (using t.co for link shortening) and Google (g.co for its product redirects) have reinforced .co’s credibility on a global scale. If leading brands trust .co, it’s a testament to its reliability and professionalism. Global recognition: it's versatile when used internationally and is instantly recognizable as a business related domain associated from anywhere, making it a good choice for businesses that market internationally. Easy to remember : it's short, simple and easy to remember, the number one rule for choosing a domain name because it can help customers recall your business name. Alternative to .com: it can present a viable, sometimes cost-effective, alternative option while still maintaining a level of authority if the .com domain you want is already taken. Edgy: it isn't .com, so if you use it you can potentially make a slight statement that you're choosing to do things a little differently with your business. For some brands, this is important. Check out the new domain extensions available on Wix and grab one that fits your idea. In 2023 several .co domains were amongst the highest value domains sold. With payments.co selling for $48,600 making it 14th on the list and regeneration.co selling for $47,350 and coming 15th on the top 100 domain sales chart for the year. Well-known, large brands using .co domain extensions include: Hinge (uses hinge.co as its main domain) Vine (used vine.co as its official website) Ello (used ello.co as its community platform) Twitter (uses t.co for its URL shortener) Google (uses g.co for product redirects) AngelList (uses angel.co as its startup platform) 500 Startups (uses 500.co as its venture capital hub) Why not use a .co domain? A .co domain can appeal to some businesses looking for a short and modern web address. For brands with a distinct vision or an audience that already knows to look for their .co address, it might just work. But before making a decision, it’s important to weigh the possible challenges alongside the benefits. One common concern is that many people are so familiar with .com that they might instinctively type it instead of .co. If the .com version of your desired name is taken, your potential visitors could end up on someone else’s website by accident. This kind of mix-up could mean lost opportunities or confusion for your audience. Another factor is perception. In some traditional industries, .com is still seen as the more established and prestigious option, so a .co might not carry the same weight. Cost can also be a consideration—.co domains sometimes have higher registration and renewal fees compared to other extensions. That said, if you’re set on a .co domain, consider pairing it with a strong branding strategy to avoid misunderstandings. For instance, using clear messaging across your channels can help guide visitors to the right place. At the end of the day, the best domain is one that’s memorable, simple and makes it easy for customers to connect with your business. Website examples using .co domains Looking for inspiration? Here are some standout examples of businesses using .co domains to make their mark online. The Mighty Spice Company This company brings the vibrant flavors of authentic Indian cuisine to your kitchen with its range of curry pastes, including the flagship Mighty Spice line and the Vegan Sadhu collection for plant-based cooking. Perfect for food enthusiasts and home chefs alike, these pastes deliver complex, traditional flavors with ease. Choosing a .co domain reflects the brand’s contemporary, accessible approach, making it an inviting choice for a global audience craving bold and authentic dishes. Mastery Mastery LLC is a brand and web consultancy that helps businesses grow more efficiently by creating clarity in design, messaging and strategy. Using a .co domain underscores Mastery LLC’s cutting-edge approach, appealing to forward-thinking businesses aiming to stand out in their markets. V-Labs This tech company offers tools and enhancements for virtual meetings. Their audience primarily includes businesses looking to improve collaboration and engagement in online environments. It's use of the .co domain extension helps establish its global focus and establish trust amongst potential clients. Generation She This female founded and led podcast aims to help Gen Z female business owners unlock investment potential and grow their businesses. With its lively and empowering tone, the platform inspires and equips young women to excel in business. Opting for a .co domain reflects the brand's energetic, bold personality, emphasizing a modern approach that aligns perfectly with its youthful, ambitious audience. Nuhom This real estate company uses its sleek and professional .co domain to reflect its expertise and drive in helping buyers and sellers navigate the property market. Targeting modern, tech-savvy clients, Nuhom simplifies what’s often a complex process with its user-friendly tools and streamlined services. Choosing a .co domain reinforces its approachable, forward-thinking image in an industry steeped in traditional practices. Create a website with the AI website builder . Are .co domains legitimate and safe? The .co domain is a legitimate, widely recognized extension used by businesses worldwide. Like .com, it’s registered through accredited registrars, making both safe and trustworthy choices. Learn more: Best domain registrars .co domains are also subject to standard domain registration and renewal practices. Ensure that you renew your .co domain on time to maintain ownership and keep your registration information up to date. Many well-known brands and organizations use .co domains for their online presence. This further establishes the legitimacy and acceptance of .co as a valid domain extension. Making sure that your domain is safe means also ensuring your website security offers robust and advanced security capabilities. From 24/7 monitoring, to bug bounty programs, to HTTPS and SSL/TLS. .co and third-level domain extensions Third-level domain extensions are the parts of the domain name that come after the second-level domain. For example, in "blog.org.co," the third-level domain extension is "co." It's important to note that the term "extension" is often used interchangeably with "top-level domain" (TLD). In the example, ".co" is both the TLD and the third-level domain extension. Potential options with .co for a third-level domain extension include : co.co org.co info.co edu.co gov.co While .co as a TLD is used to represent global brands and websites, as a third-level domain extension it's more commonly used by local entities and organizations. How do I register and buy a .co domain? Registering a .co domain is a straightforward process and can typically be done through domain registrars , domain hosting companies or accredited registrars authorized to sell .co domains. If you’re learning how to make a website , Wix simplifies the process—choose a premium plan, and you can register your domain and extension at the same time. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup . 01. Choose a domain registrar Select a reputable domain registrar that offers .co domain registration services. Or opt for a website builder that allows you to choose your domain, or extension and then register it. As Heather Vesely, Social Media Specialist for My Supplement Store says: "For someone just starting the domain registration process, begin by brainstorming a list of potential names and check their availability using a domain registrar. It's smart to also check social media handles to ensure consistency across platforms. If your ideal name isn't available as a .com, consider alternatives like .co. Most importantly, register your domain as soon as possible — good names go quickly, and early registration helps protect your brand identity." Learn more: How to register a domain 02. Check domain name availability Use the registrar's search tool to check the availability of your desired .co domain. If the domain is available, you can proceed to the next step. If not you'll need to rethink your domain name or domain extension. Check its availability with a domain name search with Wix. If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator , which can help you find a similar domain name. Learn more: How to choose a domain name 03. Provide all necessary contact and payment information Then follow the registrar's instructions for completing the registration process. This typically involves providing your contact information, payment details and agreeing to the terms and conditions. 04. Configure DNS settings (if relevant) After registration, you may need to configure the domain's DNS (Domain Name System) settings. You can either use the registrar's default DNS or set custom DNS records for your hosting or website. With Wix , this step is automatically done for you. It's important to note that .co domains are typically available for registration by anyone globally and they’re not restricted to Colombian-based entities. However, it's advisable to check with your chosen registrar for specific registration requirements or any restrictions that may apply. Learn more: .org vs. com vs .net domain extensions .co and ICANN ICANN, or the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers , is a non-profit organization which manages and oversees the global Internet's Domain Name System (DNS) and IP address allocation. When it comes to domain extensions like .co, ICANN plays a crucial role in overseeing the management and distribution of these top-level domains (TLDs) to ensure consistency across the whole World Wide Web/Internet. ICANN ensures that .co follows the guidelines and standards set for all TLDs. It manages the registration process, ensuring that domain names are unique and that the associated WHOIS information is accurate. WHOIS is a protocol used to query databases and obtain information about registered domain names, including details about the domain owner, registrar, and registration dates. A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address used to access resources on the World Wide Web. It consists of the protocol (like HTTP or HTTPS ), the domain name (which includes the TLD like ".company"), and the specific path to the resource on the web server . ICANN ensures that URLs are properly structured and that the associated domain extensions ad here to established standards. .co domain extension FAQ Who can register a .co domain? .co domains are open for registration to entities and individuals worldwide. They’re not restricted to Colombian entities. Are there any restrictions on registering a .co domain extension? There are no specific restrictions on .co domains. They’re generally available for a wide range of uses. What's the cost of a .co domain extension? The cost of a .co domain can vary depending on the domain registrar and any additional services or features you select. How long is the registration period for a .co domain? The standard registration period for a .co domain is typically one year. However, you can often choose to register the domain for multiple years at once. Can I transfer my .co domain extension to a different registrar? Yes, you can transfer your .co domain to a different registrar if you wish. The process involves unlocking the domain, obtaining an authorization code from your current registrar and initiating the transfer with the new registrar. Can I renew my .co domain after it expires? Yes, you can typically renew your .co domain after it expires. However, there may be a grace period during which you can renew without losing ownership. After the grace period, the domain may become available for others to register. Are .co domain extensions more expensive than others? Generally, no. Prices for a domain can vary between registrars but .co domains are not necessarily more expensive. 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 . Can I use a .co domain for business emails? Absolutely. A .co domain is an excellent choice if you're exploring how to create a business email that looks professional and aligns with your brand. Whether it’s using formats like info@yourbusiness.co or firstname@yourbusiness.co, this domain extension ensures your email stands out while reinforcing your company’s identity. You can also explore email name ideas that convey creativity or reflect specific roles within your team, enhancing communication and branding. What is the difference between .com and .co domain? .com is the most commonly recognized domain extension, originally created for commercial businesses, making it the default choice for most websites. Meanwhile, .co is a newer option that was initially designated for Colombia but is now marketed as a global alternative for companies or creative branding. While .co can feel modern and unique, it’s often mistaken for .com, which can lead to confusion for visitors trying to reach your website. Please note that specific policies and procedures may vary between registrars, so it's essential to check with your chosen registrar for precise details regarding .co domain registration and management.
- What is a domain name and why it matters
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain → What exactly is a domain name and why is it so important? Let’s break it down in simple terms. A domain name is your unique web address that makes it easy for people to find and visit your website. Think of it like your home address but for the internet. It’s made up of a name and a top-level domain (TLD), like "example.com." Without domain names, we’d have to remember a bunch of random numbers ( IP address ) just to visit websites – and let’s be honest, that would be a complete hassle, especially considering that there are over 169 million .com and .net domain names registered. Get your domain name now and then learn how to make a website to go with it. So, if you’re planning on building any sort of online presence—whether it’s to open an online store or to display your online portfolio for potential employees to hire you—then you must get familiar with the ins and outs of domain names. At Wix, we went for the simple yet impactful choice of using our brand name as our domain name. It’s easy to remember, aligns with our identity and portrays credibility right from the start. Your domain name isn’t just how people find your website–it’s also their first impression of your brand. Choose wisely, because as they say, you only get one chance to make a first impression. TL;DR: what is a domain name and why it matters To help you get started, we’ve put together a detailed guide on all things domain names. You’ll learn what a domain name is, how it works and the best practices for picking and registering one that fits your goals. Here’s what you’ll find in this guide (you can skip ahead to any of the sections below): What is a domain name? How do domains work? The difference between domain and hosting Different types of domains How to choose a domain name Why do domains matter? Domain examples How to buy a domain name What is a domain name registrar? Can you buy a domain name forever? What is a domain name? A domain name is the web address people type into a browser to visit a site. Like a fingerprint, each domain is unique. Domains make it easier to access websites without remembering IP addresses. For example, typing "google.com" is much simpler than entering a string of numbers. Domain names are structured with labels separated by dots, making them easy to read and share. IP addresses are just four numbers between 0 and 255, separated by periods. While computers work well with these numbers, humans prefer words we can remember. That’s where domain names come in—they’re an easy shortcut to access sites like "google.com" instead of a series of numbers. Behind the scenes, the domain name system (DNS) acts like the internet’s phone book, translating these names into numeric IP addresses. This process, called a DNS lookup, ensures your request is sent to the correct website quickly. Difference between a domain name and a URL A lot of people use the terms domain name and Universal Resource Locator ( URL ) interchangeably but there’s actually a bit of a difference. A domain name is just one part of a URL. Think of it as the main part of the web address that includes two main elements: the name itself and the extension. For example, in “google.com,” “Google” is the name and “ .com ” is the top-level domain. But when you look at your browser’s address bar, you’ll see more than just that–it’s made up of several parts of a URL working together to form the full URL. Learn more: What is a parked domain? URI vs URL Parts of a domain How do domains work? The internet is a global network of computers connected by submarine cables, with each computer having an IP address to send and retrieve data. Domain names are easier-to-remember versions of these IP addresses, like saving a friend’s number under their name in your phone. The domain name system (DNS) acts as the internet’s phone book, translating domain names into numeric IP addresses. When you type a domain name in your browser, DNS servers find the matching IP address and send your request to the “name servers,” managed by your web hosting provider . The name servers connect to the web server hosting the site, and the data is sent back to your browser—all in seconds. In fact, approximately 16.4 billion searches are made daily on Google alone , relying on the DNS to connect users to the correct websites quickly and efficiently. Learn more: Domain vs. website The history of domains Domain names revolutionized the early days of the internet. Before they existed, users had to input long numeric IP addresses to access websites—a frustrating and complicated process. In 1983, Paul Mockapetris and Jon Postel introduced the Domain Name System (DNS), pairing human-readable names (like “example.com”) with IP addresses. This breakthrough made navigating the web simple and accessible, laying the foundation for the internet we know today. Initially, domain names came with just a few extensions. The first top-level domains (TLDs) launched in 1985—.com for businesses, .org for organizations, .net for networks and a few others. While these TLDs started with specific purposes, their use quickly expanded as the internet grew. The difference between domain and hosting To create a website , you need a domain name and web hosting. These two are often provided by the same company, which can make their roles confusing. Together, they form the foundation of your website’s infrastructure . Think of your website as an apartment complex. Web hosting is the land where your building (the website) stands, storing all its files on web servers. The domain name is like the building’s address, making it easy for visitors to find you—just as a physical address does. Adding a path, such as “/blog,” directs visitors to a specific page, much like an apartment number guides someone to a particular unit. The internet itself acts as the street that connects visitors to your virtual building. Learn more: Web host vs. domain registrar Different types of domains The DNS uses a unique tree-like structure to keep its huge database organized. At the top is the root domain, represented by a dot. Everything below that dot forms the domain name space, broken into different levels based on how fast down they fall from the root. This results in different types of domains , all of which serve a different purpose: Top-level domains (TLD), including new top-level domains Second-level domains (SLD) Third-level domains Top-level domains (TLD) A top-level domain , generally referred to as TLD or domain extension, is the right-most segment of a domain name located after the last dot. It serves to recognize certain characteristics of a website address, such as location and purpose. In August 2022, there were 1,487 TLDs available for registration , the majority of which were added in the last decade. If you’re picking a TLD, choose one that matches your website’s vibe and audience. The options are endless, so you’re sure to find one that makes your site unique. Learn more about how to find the owner of a domain or domain name trends . Let’s take a look at the most popular categorizations: Generic top-level domains (gTLD): Commonly known simply as gTLDs, generic top-level domains are made of three or more characters and are open for registration by anyone. gTLDs account for the vast majority of domain extension options, with more than a thousand added in recent years through ICANN’s new gTLDs program . Available options range from the traditional .org vs. .com and .net to newer options such as .biz , .llc , .tips , .store , .co , .photos , .love , .work , .space , .digital , .club , .tv , .blog , .info , .site , .land , .company , .solutions , .website , .tech , .training , .coach , .world , .party , .yoga , .wiki , .ninja , .directory , .guru , .live , .fit , .studio , .today , .design , .pictures , .expert , .technology , .top , . co.uk , .london , .tokyo , .email and .xyz . Sponsored top-level domains (sTLD): These are more niche and managed by specific organizations. To register an sTLDA, you usually need to meet certain criteria related to a community or theme. If your website caters to a specific group, an sTLD can help establish credibility and trust right away. Country code top-level domains (ccTLD): There are 308 country code top-level domains , each of which is identified by a unique, two-letter string. While country code top-level domains were originally intended for business and individuals operating in specific geographical areas, there is also a significant number of website owners who register ccTLDs for branding purposes or to take advantage of certain benefits. This is the case with extensions such as .ai (Anguilla), which is particularly popular within companies in the artificial intelligence industry, and .gg (Bailiwick of Guernsey), which has seen a significant popularity rise in the gaming sphere. Other ccTLD include: .de (Germany), .nl (Netherlands), .at (Austria), .mx (Mexico), .me (Montenegro), .ch (Switzerland), .br (Brazil), .be (Belgium), .fr (France), .in (India) and .ca (Canada). Claim a premium domain to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one. Second-level domains (SLDs) The second-level domain (SLD) is the part of a domain name that comes before the TLD. It’s typically where you’ll find your brand name, like "wix" is the SLD in "www.wix.com." In some cases, the SLD can also show the type of website in a region. For example, commercial websites in Spain may be registered with the domain extension .com.es whereas in the UK they appear as .co.uk. Likewise, in these same countries academic institutions may be registered under .edu.es and .ac.uk respectively. Third-level domains A third-level domain (or subdomain ) adds a prefix to a main domain and creates a separate section of your site. It’s perfect for things like blogs, online stores or resource pages without needing to buy a whole new domain. For example, when creating a free Wix website, your URL might look like username.wixsite.com/siteaddress. But once you buy your own domain, you can add custom subdomains like shop.yourwebsite.com or blog.yourwebsite.com. Third-level domains can get longer if you start adding more nodes. You might come across four-level domains like news.bbc.co.uk or even five-level ones like www.village.fairport.ny.us. While it’s rare to see a domain with more than four levels, it’s possible. For more in-depth examples, check out the most popular domain extensions . How to choose a domain name With over 349.9 million domains registered and thousands added daily, finding the perfect domain requires creativity, SEO knowledge and foresight. This guide to how to choose a domain name will help you cover your bases. Here are the most important steps to get you started: Make it easy to type and pronounce: Avoid tricky words, abbreviations or alternate spellings. Test ideas with friends to ensure they’re simple and memorable. Stay on brand: Your domain should reflect your brand name. If it’s taken, add a keyword or use a domain name generator to find alternatives. Register your domain as soon as you choose your business name. Choose the right extension: According to a study by GrowthBadger , ".com" is the most memorable and most trusted TLD of them all, but weigh options before settling on one. Keep it memorable and relatable: Short, catchy names stick. For example, Bhavik Sarkhedi, founder and creative director of Ohh My Brand , shares, "A great domain name has to stick. My current company, OhhMyBrand, plays off the phrase "Ohh my God," which makes it relatable and fun. My first business was called Write Right-straight to the point and easy to recall... All short, all catchy, all under 12 characters." As Bhavik continues to experience: "The funny thing is, even though I've sold those companies, people still ping me because they remember the names. That's the magic of keeping it simple, relatable and memorable. If your name has recall value, especially in your industry, it's a game-changer. Short and sharp-that's the rule I swear by." Learn more: Domain lifecycle Best .com alternatives according to 33 business owners .org domain How much a domain name costs Starting a business Business name generator Why do domains matter? A strong domain name helps your website and brand in several ways: Branding: Establishes your brand’s identity online and makes your site look professional. Memorability and accessibility: Makes it easier for visitors to find, remember and return to your website. Trust and credibility: Shows users your site is reliable and builds confidence in your brand. Studies show that 75% of users admit they judge a company’s credibility based on its website design, including its domain name . Connectivity: The Domain Name System (DNS) ensures users can reach your site seamlessly. Promotion: Works well on social media, business cards and custom email addresses. Learn more about how to create an email with your domain. Take the case of Nissan Motors v. Nissan Computer . N issan Motors had to use “nissanusa.com” after another company had already registered “nissan.com,” showing how important a domain is for branding, trust and user recognition. Learn more: What is a custom domain? I have a domain name, now what? The worst domain name advice you should definitely avoid Why do you need a domain name? What is a domain name example? We've put together some of the world's most well-known domain examples, categorized by niche and as proof that the right domain name is essential to the branding of your business and website. Here are some examples of popular domain names: harvard.edumit.edu amazon.com wix.com spotify.com airbnb.com How to get a domain name Once you’ve chosen the perfect domain name for your site, it’s time to make it yours and purchase it. There are a few things to keep in mind when figuring out how to register a domain name , including: Checking if your domain name is available Choosing the right registrar for your needs Planning for the long term so your domain stays secure Let’s take a closer look at how to handle each step. Search for your domain name First things first, make sure no one else is using the domain name you want. While you could check manually, it can be a hassle if your top choice is already taken. A domain name search tool saves time and effort by showing you whether your domain is available and suggesting similar options (you can also explore the best domain name generators to help you come up with similar domain names). These tools also give you domain pricing details so you can compare your choices and pick the best one for your site. Pick a domain registrar Once you’ve found the perfect domain name, it’s time to decide where to buy a domain name . Not all domain registrars are created equal–pricing, customer support and extra features like privacy protection and domain management can vary. Keep these points in mind: Pricing Watch out for registrars offering low first-year fees but charging sky-high renewals later. Instead, look for transparent pricing or deals or registrars that provide free domain names . Tip: Sign up for a Wix Premium plan , and learn how to get a free domain name with a one-year domain name voucher. Private domain registration ICANN requires everyone who purchases a domain to provide personal information (including full name, email, address and phone number) that is then made publicly available on a database known as WHOIS . If you’re concerned about privacy or want to minimize the chances of spam and identity theft, you can hide this information using WHOIS privacy protection. Some domain registrars include WHOIS privacy protection as part of their offering, immediately protecting your personal data when you learn how to buy a domain name , while others offer it as a paid add-on. Learn more: What is domain privacy ? Web hosting pairing Pairing your domain with hosting from the same provider keeps things simple and can save you money. It allows you to manage all site assets within a single platform, thus minimizing the overall cost and headache. Tip: When you host a site on Wix, you’ll have advanced security monitoring, automatic set-up and enterprise-grade reliability of 99.9% uptime. This helps protect against domain squatting and domain spoofing amongst other cyber threats. Customer support The availability of customer support is one of the most overlooked aspects when it comes to finding a domain registrar. If you ever have any issues at 3 am and can’t get a hold of anyone, you’ll kick your past self for not choosing a registrar that offers live customer support 24/7. Domain age Domain age refers to the amount of time that a domain name has existed, or, as it sounds, how old it is. You’ll want to know your domain age for the following reasons: If you take a domain that previously belonged to a different business, it can indicate the business’s age. This can affect brand trust—both good or bad—if the domain has built an associated reputation over time. This also can make it necessary to check domain history. Older domains may have some SEO benefits since they have had time to build traffic. You can verify domain trademark claims based on domain age and the date it was originally registered. Domain email Some domain registrars’ offerings extend beyond website-focused features. Keep an eye out for additional products and tools that may interest you, as it will make it much easier to connect and manage them through your website. For example, if you want a business email address that uses your domain name instead of that of a generic mail provider, you should look for a registrar that also offers personalized email addresses. Bulk purchasing If you’re planning to expand or launch new brands, buying multiple domains now could save you time and money later. This is especially relevant if you plan to expand your operations to other geographic locations or have a certain product you’d like to promote as a stand-alone brand. How to keep a domain name secure Protecting your domain name is important to keep your website safe. Here are some simple tips to help you secure your domain: Choose a reputable domain registrar : Pick a domain registrar known for solid domain security and great customer service. As Daniel Yeromka, CEO of HostZealot, notes: "A domain seems like a simple thing that you buy and forget. I didn't know that domain registrars might get acquired, or that there might be regulatory changes around domain ownership and enforcement...[If I could do things over now,] I would look at the registrar's stability, their registry policies and any trademark overlaps." (Read Daniel’s advice in our blog on 12 web domain-related questions you're too shy to ask .) Use a strong password: Create a password that’s at least 12 characters long with a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding 2FA means you’ll need to enter a code from your phone when logging in, giving you an extra layer of protection. Keep your contact information updated: Make sure your contact information with your domain registrar is up to date. This will help them to contact you if there is any suspicious activity on your account. Watch out for phishing emails: Phishing emails are designed to trick you into revealing your personal information, such as your domain registrar account password. Be careful about clicking on links in emails, even if they appear to be from legitimate sources. Keep your domain registration information private: Domain privacy is critical. Don't share your domain registration information with anyone you don't trust. This includes your domain registrar account password, your domain name and your contact information. Read also: Tips for future-proofing your domain , Most common industry domain name Domain vs. URL vs. IP address It’s easy to mix up a domain name, a URL and an IP address, but each serves a distinct purpose on the internet. Understanding the difference helps you navigate the web more confidently and explains how websites are found and accessed. Domain name URL (uniform resource locator) IP address (internet protocol) Example wix.com https://www.wix.com/about/ 192.0.2.2 (IPv4) Function A human-friendly address that points to a specific website. The full web address that points to a specific page or file on a website. A unique numerical identifier for a device on the internet that allows computers to communicate. Relationship The core part of a URL. Includes the domain name, the protocol (https://) and the specific path (/about/). The actual address that the domain name is mapped to by the DNS. The domain name is the readable address you type in your browser. The URL is the complete path to a specific page and the IP address is the number your computer uses to find the website behind the scenes. Together they make it possible to navigate the web smoothly. Plan ahead by purchasing your domain name If you’re looking to buy a domain or just curious, you’ve likely realized how important domain names are. The US domain name industry is an 8.1 billion-dollar market that’s still growing, including the lucrative business of domain trading. Once you register a domain, it’s yours—so long as you renew it annually or within your registrar’s time frame. This makes it crucial to secure the domain name for any business you start. It can be simple, like your name, or highly marketable, like business.com, which sold for $345 million . This practice, known as domain parking , often aims at domain flipping , and it’s more common than you might think. Consider purchasing additional TLDs you might want in the future to prevent others from taking them—otherwise, you could find yourself paying in the domain name trade. Learn more: What's the easiest way to get a domain? What is a domain name FAQ What is ICANN? The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers ( ICANN ) oversees all domain registrations, allocates and assigns IP addresses, runs accreditation systems for domain registrars and keeps a centralized database of all domain names and their IPs. The ICANN also has the authority to approve new domain extensions (also known as TLDs), manage them and shut them down if they don’t follow the determined rules. They can also approve domain registrars to manage domain extensions and domain registration. How do I find my domain name? Your domain name is the unique web address people use to find your website (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com ). If you already own one, you can find it through the domain registrar where you purchased it. Log in to your account there, and you’ll see your domain listed. If you're starting fresh, you can easily choose and purchase a domain through a website builder or domain registrar. Do I need a domain for a website? Yes, having a domain is essential if you want people to find your website on the internet. A domain acts as your website’s address, making it easy for visitors to reach you. Some platforms offer free website options with subdomains (e.g., yourbusiness.wix.com ), but a custom domain looks more professional and builds trust with your audience. What is the difference between a website name and a domain name? A website name is what you call or brand your site—it's how you refer to it publicly, like "Your Business" or "John's Blog." A domain name, on the other hand, is its web address (e.g., www.johnsblog.com ). Think of the website name as your site’s identity, while the domain name is the way people access it online. What is a domain name in computing? A domain name in computing is a web address used to access websites, making it easier to locate online resources without relying on numerical IP addresses. Beyond websites, the term “domain” can also refer to organizational functions in networking, where it manages grouped resources like user accounts and servers, or in software development, where it defines specific areas of focus such as healthcare app components or database management with domain-specific languages like SQL (structured query language). What is a domain registry? A domain registry is the organization that oversees domain name databases and manages all the information related to domain owners. They keep things organized based on different TLDs like .com, .net. or . co.uk . For example, Nominet handles . co.uk extensions in the UK. Registries set the rules for how domain names can be registered and used, making sure everything runs smoothly. They also provide access to domain registrars, like Wix, allowing users to see and register available domain names. What is a domain in email? A domain in email is what comes after the "@" symbol in an email address, like "yourbusiness.com" in "info@yourbusiness.com." With Wix, you can create a personalized email address that matches your custom domain, helping your business look professional and trustworthy. This domain not only routes emails to the right servers but also reinforces your brand's identity every time you send a message. How do I create a domain name? Start by brainstorming names that are short, memorable and relevant to your brand or niche. Use a domain registrar like Wix, GoDaddy or Namecheap to check availability and register your chosen name. Make sure it’s easy to spell and pronounce so it sticks with visitors. Do I need an LLC for a domain? No, you don't need an LLC to register a domain. You can buy a domain as an individual, but forming an LLC offers legal protection and credibility if you're running a business. It really comes down to your business setup not your domain ownership. Can I get a domain for free? Yes, some platforms offer free domains, usually as a subdomain (like yoursite.wixsite.com). For a professional look and more control, buying a custom domain is recommended—it’s affordable and avoids the limitations of free subdomains. Who actually owns a domain name? The person or entity that registers the domain through a registrar owns it for the period of registration. Ownership is maintained as long as you keep renewing it and follow the registrar's rules. Can I run my website without a domain? Technically you can use a platform’s free subdomain to run your website. But, a custom domain adds credibility and trust and makes it much easier for people to find and remember your site. What to avoid in a domain name? Avoid long, complicated or hard-to-spell names, numbers and hyphens that confuse visitors. Steer clear of trademarks or names that could infringe on other brands to prevent legal issues. Keep it simple, catchy and relevant to your business.
- .ORG vs .COM vs .NET: What do they mean and which is better?
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain → A website address has two main parts: the domain name , which represents your brand or business, and the domain extension, also called a top-level domain (TLD). The extension appears after the dot—like .org, .com or .net—and signals the type, purpose or credibility of your website. While .com remains the most popular and widely recognized option, .org and .net each serve specific audiences and goals. Understanding the difference between these domain extensions helps you choose one that fits your website’s purpose, builds trust with visitors and strengthens your online presence. In this guide, we’ll compare .org vs .com vs .net, explain what each extension means, who it’s best for and how to decide which one aligns with your brand. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place—custom website, 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: .org vs .com vs .net Your domain extension says a lot about your brand. This guide breaks down the differences between .org, .com and .net—from what each one stands for to when it makes the most sense to use them. You’ll learn how each option affects your credibility, audience perception and SEO potential, so you can choose the right extension to support your business goals and online presence. Whether you're launching a nonprofit, building a service-based business or scaling a tech brand, this guide will help you make a strategic, informed decision. Feature .com .org .net Meaning Commercial Organization Network Intended use Businesses, personal blogs, general websites Non-profits, charities, open-source projects Tech services like ISPs and hosting Popularity Most popular globally Popular with non-profits and communities Recognized but less common Trust factor High — often seen as credible and trusted High — associated with transparency and community efforts Moderate — strong fit for tech industries Availability Highly competitive (many names taken) Easier to find than .com Easier to find than .com SEO impact No technical SEO advantage, but strong branding value No direct impact, trusted for non-profits and education No direct impact, solid for tech brands Cost on Wix Starts at $9.90 Starts at $14.95 Starts at $14.95 Best for Businesses, eCommerce, personal blogs Non-profits, advocacy groups, communities Tech companies, startups, hosting services Editor's note: Pricing information is accurate as of January 19th, 2026. Learn more: What is a domain name How to get .org domain .co vs .com domain What does .com mean? The .com top-level domain is, by far, the most popular extension, and thus the one with the highest value for professional websites. While it was originally conceived to host commercial websites, nowadays its use has extended to any type of site, despite the long list of alternatives devised for other purposes. Ever since the phrase “dot-com” was used to describe the rise and subsequent fall of online start-ups in the ‘90s, this domain extension has become synonymous with the internet. As of today, 48% of global websites use a .com TLD and consumers perceive it as the de facto default extension for web addresses. This means that not only is .com much easier for your audience to remember, but also that they might actually type in the wrong URL if you’re using a different extension. The sheer reputation of the .com TLD means that its availability is quite limited and can significantly complicate the process of choosing a domain name . With this in mind, it’s important to check your domain’s feasibility in the first stages of starting a business and, ideally, take it into account when coming up with your business name . That being said, not using .com is far from the end of the world and in some cases, you might even want to actively choose a different domain extension. Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain before someone else does. What does .org mean? The .org top-level domain stands for “organization” and is primarily used for nonprofit websites such as NGOs, open source projects, charitable organizations and educational platforms. This extension was one of the original domains established in 1985, and is therefore perceived as stronger and more credible than newer alternatives. This domain extension was originally created for organizations that didn’t match the intent of any other domains available at the time: not commercial, not in networking, not a university, not government and not military. Over time, .org became exclusively for nonprofits, however, this restriction was removed in August 2019 after the domain name registry was sold to an investment firm. But while for-profit businesses are now legally allowed to purchase and use .org domains, the public opinion is still very much set on its old ways and experience. .Org signals a focus on social good. Any business using a .org domain is inherently perceived as a nonprofit organization or a fundraising website for a nonprofit, and the failure to clearly disclose the for-profit nature of your company could result in serious backlash. .org vs .com differences As you compare what .com is vs .org, you’ll notice that the distinction between the two appears to be fairly simple: one is for nonprofit uses while the other is used by commercial organizations. If you want to create a nonprofit website, use a .org domain. If your goal is to build an online business , go for .com instead. But, of course, nothing is ever black and white. As the availability of .com domains drops, businesses are opting for alternative TLDs in order to be able to use their intended domain names. With only around 10 million .org domains registered , accounting for less than 5% of the global total, the .org has risen as one of the preferred alternatives to the .com extension. .com vs .org: .com is often used for businesses, signals commercial intent, is faster to type on mobile and allows more flexibility over time. On the other hand, .org is typically used by nonprofits and community projects, suggests a mission-driven focus, often has better name availability and works best for long-term noncommercial use. User experience and SEO considerations From a user experience standpoint, .com holds a subtle but notable advantage: many mobile keyboards include a built-in “.com” shortcut for faster typing, while no such shortcut exists for .org. This may not be a deal-breaker, but it’s a small factor worth considering, especially for mobile-first audiences. When it comes to SEO, neither .com nor .org offers any inherent advantage. Search engines rank websites based on content quality, relevance, site performance and user experience—not domain extensions. So whether you choose .com or .org, your site’s SEO success will depend on how well it’s built and maintained. Pricing, perception and when to use .org Historically, .org domains had capped pricing, making them a more affordable option for nonprofits and charities. However, those price controls were lifted in 2019 , and now domain costs can vary depending on the registry. In general, both .com and .org domains are widely available to the public and typically cost about the same at registration. Technically, any type of business or organization can use a .org domain as long as they back it with the right marketing strategy that will avoid potential misunderstandings among those who still connect this domain extension with nonprofits. However, the notion that .org domains belong to charities, NGOs and educational platforms is so ingrained in the collective mindset that you might want to keep this TLD as a last resource only. Additional .org vs .com considerations Trust and expectations: People often connect .org domains with nonprofits advocacy groups or educational projects. This can build trust for mission-driven sites but might confuse people if your site is for business. Email perception: Email addresses ending in .com usually feel more familiar for sales, partnerships and customer support. .org emails are legitimate but may be seen as informational or donation-focused. Brand protection: Many organizations register both .com and .org versions of their domain to prevent impersonation and reduce brand confusion even if they only actively use one. Long-term flexibility: A .org domain can limit future shifts toward paid products or commercial services. .com offers more flexibility if your goals change over time. If you’re in need of a strong .com domain alternative for your business or online portfolio , you should take a look at what .net is instead. What does .net mean? The .net domain is the second most popular extension. It’s often presented as the recommended alternative to .com when you try to buy a domain name that is already in use. It’s estimated that around 4% of all global registered domains use this extension. The .net domain name extension stands for “network” and was originally meant to be used by umbrella websites acting as a portal for smaller sites. It's now particularly common in tech companies. You should use a .net extension for businesses that provides services like internet, website hosting , databases or collaboration tools. Another reason to use .net is when .com is not available. In this case, you’ll need to make sure that the business with your same domain name with a .com extension is not in the same industry, otherwise your audience might end up becoming their clients. Whatever the reason is for you to use a .net domain extension, you’ll need to ensure that potential visitors remember it and don’t end up on the wrong site. An effective way to achieve this is by integrating your site’s TLD within your branding efforts, as your audience will end up naturally connecting your business name with .net. For example, a marketing consultant firm called Upstream may refer to themselves as Upstream.net to get their audience familiar with their correct domain extension. .com vs .net differences Choosing between .com and .net usually comes down to what you’re building. Originally, .com was the home for "commercial" sites, which is why it’s still the top pick for businesses, blogs and eCommerce website platforms. On the other hand, .net was made for "network" sites like internet service providers, tech platforms and online communities . If you’re launching a forum, a cloud service or an internet-focused platform, a .net domain might be your perfect match. Popularity and availability Nearly half of all registered domains are .coms so finding an available one can be tricky. This makes .net a popular alternative when your ideal .com is taken. You can also explore expired or auctioned .com domains which sometimes allows you to claim your preferred name. Over time the original distinction between .com and .net has blurred and many people now choose based on availability branding and memorability rather than strict purpose. User experience and mobile impact One small thing to keep in mind is the mobile experience. Most mobile keyboards have a handy “.com” shortcut, which makes it a breeze for your visitors to type. Since .net doesn’t have its own button, your users might need a couple of extra taps to find you—something to think about if your crowd mostly browses on their phones. .com vs .net: Choosing a .com is a smart move for businesses, blogs and online stores because it’s the name everyone knows and finds easy to type on the go. On the other hand, .net is a great fit for tech or community sites and is a solid backup if your dream .com name is already off the table. Branding and perception .com is the most recognized and trusted extension globally, instantly signaling a commercial or professional presence. .net can suggest tech-savvy, network-oriented or community-driven projects but doesn’t carry the same universal recognition as .com. This perception matters if your goal is brand authority, trust or global reach. SEO and technical considerations When it comes to SEO, search engines don’t play favorites with .com and .net. Your ranking really comes down to creating great content, having a high-performing site, making sure your site looks good on mobile and getting quality backlinks. The extension itself won't give you a boost. Pricing and long-term strategy Both .com and .net domains are similarly priced at registration, though premium .coms can be much more expensive. If your project might grow or change direction, .com is usually more versatile for any type of business or online venture. .net is a great fit for tech-focused or network-based platforms but can also work creatively if the .com isn’t available. Learn more about domain expiration and how to purchase an expired domain in this guide. .org vs .com vs .net differences When choosing between .org, .com and .net for your domain, it’s important to consider the purpose and audience of your site: .com (short for "commercial") is the most widely recognized and trusted TLD, often associated with commercial businesses, eCommerce and general websites. Its familiarity can boost credibility and reach, but the popularity means many names may already be taken. .org (short for "organization") is traditionally used by non-profits, charities and organizations focused on education or advocacy. It conveys trustworthiness and purpose, making it ideal for mission-driven websites, though it’s less common for businesses. .net (short for "network") was originally intended for network-related businesses, like internet providers or tech companies, but it’s now used more broadly. While less recognized than .com, it can be a strong alternative if .com isn’t available. Ultimately, .com is often the first choice due to recognition, but .org and .net are valuable for specific industries or when aligning with your site’s mission. Expert tip from Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix: ".com is the most popular and widely recognized domain extension, making it the best choice for businesses. However, other extensions like .net, .org and country-specific ones can also be effective, depending on your business." Domain choice and SEO While choosing a .net or .com extension doesn't impact your site's SEO capabilities or ability to show up in search engine results, mobile browsers’ UI design can negatively affect sites with a .net domain. Most smartphone keyboards have a button dedicated to domain extensions, but as you’ve probably noticed its default option is always .com. As a result, searching for .net domains is more time-consuming and less user-friendly. With mobile accounting for more than half of all online traffic , this small detail can have a significant impact on the success of your site. In order to maximize your online presence and web traffic , it’s recommended to purchase both .net and .com extensions. With a domain name cost ranging between $8-$20 per year, the purchase of a second TLD will most likely result in a high return on investment as it will allow you to ensure visitors don’t accidentally reach a competitor’s site. All you need to do is redirect the additional extension to your main domain name. Ultimately, the decision of which domain to choose shouldn’t be heavily influenced by what is perceived to be best for SEO. Google’s John Mueller has confirmed over and over again that domain choice has no real impact on a site’s SEO. Mueller said , “The newer top-level domains (TLDs) are equivalent to other generic top-level domains like .com when it comes to SEO. Pick something you like, there are lots of options out there now.” Learn more: How much does a domain name cost? So while there are many different reasons as to why you might opt for a specific type of domain, its impact on your SEO shouldn’t be a deciding factor. Choosing your domain The three letters at the end of your website address are as important as everything that comes before them. Not only will they affect your chances of being found online, but also have a significant impact on your audience’s perception of your brand. Once you've chosen your website builder and covered the essentials of how to create a website , it's important to prioritize your domain name and extension. Also known as top-level domains (TLDs), domain extensions are used to categorize websites by type, location or business model. They're also used to communicate with the Domain Name System to deliver web content to web pages through their IP address and a web server . Out of the thousands of domain extensions available on the web, the most common ones are .org, .com and .net. With this in mind, the process of choosing between them should take place as soon as you start building your brand. Doing so will allow you to put together a cohesive online presence and strengthen your website's infrastructure from the beginning. Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain before someone else does. Check out this guide for more information on subdomains , as well as this list of best domain registrars . Expert tip from Keren Friedlander, product manager at Wix: "If your desired domain is already taken, consider using alternative extensions. These can still effectively represent your business. Another strategy is to add relevant keywords to your domain name like industry or location. This way, you can create a memorable and relevant domain for your business." The future of domain extensions .org, .com and .net are still among the most popular types of domains used today. The top 5 domain extensions in 2024 were: 01. .com 02. .org 03. .de 04. .ru 05. .br Other popular domain extensions include: .net , .uk, .jp, .it , and .fr. These trends are not likely to change soon. However, as competition for domain names grows, businesses are exploring less common extensions. Country-specific domains like .ru, .uk, and .de have gained significant traction, ranking among the top ten global extensions in 2024. While .org, .com, and .net are still the most popular, this could change in the future. New domain extensions are also on the rise. .xyz is one of the most popular new domain extensions, with about 1.1 million new .xyz registrations in October 2025, making it the second most registered TLD for that month after .com. It accounted for roughly 14.1% of all newly registered domains, followed by .top (6.4%) and .online (2.3%) among active extensions. Domain variety is expected to grow further, driven by increasing website creation and the upcoming ICANN second new gTLD program in 2026 . This initiative will introduce even more options, including non-Latin script TLDs, making the internet more inclusive. Technological trends are also reshaping the domain landscape. The .ai extension , originally for Anguilla, has surged in popularity due to the rise of artificial intelligence. Recognized by Google as a generic top-level domain, .ai now sees over 20,000 new registrations monthly, a trend likely to accelerate. The growth of websites has driven demand for diverse domains. Many brands use industry-specific extensions like .shop, .design, and .health to create memorable, purpose-driven identities. Startups and niche businesses stand out with extensions that highlight their expertise. Creators and influencers are also embracing extensions like .me, .bio, and .fans to build personal, approachable brands that connect with their audiences. Other domain extension options include: . studio .wiki .finance .nl (Netherlands) .yoga .center .space .top .fun .ch (Switzerland) .me .co .live .biz . blog Learn more: How to start a blog What's going on with .org now? Over time, the management of .org has changed significantly. Initially managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), it moved to the Public Interest Registry (PIR) in 2003. The nonprofit PIR ensures .org stays a reliable space for public interest projects. However, in 2019, a proposed sale of PIR to a private equity firm sparked concern among stakeholders, worried about the potential commercialization of a space traditionally reserved for the public good. This controversy highlighted the need for vigilance in preserving the .org domain's core values. You may also be interested in: How to create an email with your domain How to get a .org domain Is .shop a good domain? What is .ai domain? .co vs .com Key tips for choosing the right domain extension According to Michael Yerardi, Property Specialist, Turning Point Home Buyers: "Consider purchasing different variations of your chosen domain name (such as .com, .net, .org) to protect your brand and prevent others from using similar names for their own websites." Here are some tips to help you decide which domain extension to choose: Build trust: A ".com" domain is often seen as the most professional and reliable option. It’s the default choice for many and helps establish credibility with your audience. Match your purpose: Choose an extension that fits your organization. For example, businesses often go with ".com" for its association with commercial activity while non-profits lean toward ".org" for its connection to community-driven initiatives. Explore alternatives: If your ideal ".com" domain isn’t available, don’t worry—there are plenty of great options. Extensions like ".net" or ".org" can work well depending on your goals, while newer options like " .info " or " .co " offer creative ways to stand out. Think locally: If your business operates in a specific country, consider using a country code domain like ".uk" or " .ca " to better connect with local audiences. Keep it simple: Avoid overly long or complicated extensions. Short, memorable domains are easier for users to remember and type, enhancing your site’s accessibility. Plan for the future: If you’re thinking about growing your business or taking it in a more commercial direction down the road, choosing a .com could be a smarter long-term choice. 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. .org, .com, .net domain extensions FAQ What does .org mean on a website? The .org domain extension in a website URL stands for "organization." Originally intended for non-profit organizations, .org has since been expanded to include various types of entities, including for-profit organizations, educational institutions, community groups, and individuals. What does .com mean on a website? The .com domain extension in a URL stands for "commercial." It's the most widely recognized and commonly used top-level domain (TLD). The .com domain is often used by companies, e-Commerce websites and businesses of various sizes and types. It is widely understood and trusted by online users. What does .net mean on a website? The .net domain extension in a URL stands for "network." It was originally intended for organizations involved in networking technologies and services. However, like other domain extensions, the use of .net has expanded beyond its initial scope. Now it's commonly used by a variety of entities, including businesses, individuals, non-profit organizations, internet service providers (ISPs), and technology-related websites. It's often associated with websites that provide networking services, technology solutions, software development, or online platforms. Do people trust .com or .org more? Generally, people tend to trust .com domains more because they are widely recognized as commercial websites. .org domains, on the other hand, are typically associated with non-profit organizations and may be perceived differently depending on the context. Should I use .org if .com is taken? If the .com domain for your desired name is already taken, using the .org domain can be a viable alternative, especially if your website serves a non-profit or organizational purpose. However, consider whether using a different domain extension could potentially confuse or mislead your audience, and ensure that the .org domain accurately represents your website's content and purpose. Can I use .org for my business? While .org domains are traditionally associated with non-profit organizations, there are no strict rules prohibiting businesses from using them. However, using a .org domain for a commercial business may create confusion among users who expect .org websites to be non-profit in nature. It's important to consider the perception and expectations of your target audience before choosing a domain extension for your business. If possible, securing both the .com and .org domains for your business name can help prevent confusion and ensure consistency in branding. Is .net only for network-related sites? No, .net is not exclusively for network-related sites. Originally intended for network providers, it's now open for general use. While still popular among tech companies, .net can be used by any business or individual. It's often chosen as an alternative when the desired .com domain is unavailable. Are there country-specific versions of these extensions? Yes, there are country-specific versions of these extensions, known as country code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs). Examples include: .org.uk (United Kingdom) .com.au (Australia) .net.nz (New Zealand) These combine the generic extensions with country codes. They're often used to target specific geographic markets or comply with local regulations. Availability and registration rules vary by country. Can I own multiple extensions for the same domain name? Yes, you can own multiple extensions for the same domain name. This practice is common and has several benefits: Brand protection Preventing competitor acquisition Capturing typos Targeting different markets or purposes For example, you could own example.com, example.org and example.net. Each can be used separately or redirected to a primary domain. Do .org, .com and .net have different pricing? On Wix, .org, .com, and .net domains have the same pricing: 1. .com: $14.95/year 2. .org: $14.95/year 3. .net: $14.95/year While these three popular extensions are priced the same on Wix, it's worth noting that prices can vary on other platforms. Additionally, Wix often runs promotions that may affect these prices temporarily. Premium domains (highly desirable names) in these extensions may cost significantly more even on Wix. Always check the current pricing on Wix's domain registration page for the most up-to-date information. How to know if a domain name is available? Another business may have already taken your desired domain name, so the first step is to do a domain name search . If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator , which can help you find a similar domain name. You can also f ind the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup .
- What is a website? Definition + examples
Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix → What is a website? A website is a collection of web pages that allows individuals, businesses and organizations to share information, showcase services and connect with audiences online. Whether you’re using a website builder or leveraging an AI website builder , having a clear grasp of the basics will help you create a site that meets your goals. Websites come in many forms, from personal portfolios and blogs to an eCommerce website and company hubs, each designed to serve a specific purpose and audience. They typically include pages, navigation menus, multimedia elements and interactive features that make online engagement possible. Before diving into how to create a website , it’s necessary to understand the basics, like what is a website and why do you need one? This article will cover website definitions, the characteristics of the various types of sites and why it's important to build a website. Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. With Wix, you can design, customize and launch a professional website in minutes. Everything about Wix is built to simplify the process so you can focus on what really matters: bringing your ideas to life. Ready to make it happen? Start creating the website you’ve always envisioned today. What is a website? A website is a place on the internet where you can easily post information about yourself, your business or topics you're passionate about. It's like having your own corner of the web to showcase your ideas and connect with others. Whether you're looking to share knowledge, sell online, communicate with others, learn something new or simply have fun—websites serve a variety of purposes. To access a website, users simply need a device with a web browser—like laptops, smartphones or tablets—along with an Internet connection. Learn more: What is a Wix website? Key characteristics of a website Every website has a few core elements that make it work, feel professional and connect with your audience. Knowing these will help you build a site that’s easy to navigate, engaging and effective. Feature What it is Why it matters Domain name Your website’s unique address (like www.example.com). Helps people find your site and makes it easy to remember. Web pages The individual pages that make up your website usually built with HTML. Share content—text, images, videos—and guide visitors through your site. Navigation Menus and links connecting your pages and sections. Makes it simple for visitors to explore your site and find what they need. Hosting The servers where your website lives online. Keeps your website accessible 24/7 so anyone can visit anytime. Purpose The reason your website exists—sharing information, selling products or connecting with a community. Guides your design and content so your site meets your goals and serves your audience. What are websites used for? Websites are a key part of everyday life, helping people stay informed, shop online, share ideas and connect with others. They serve as digital spaces for communication, learning, entertainment and business. Learn more: What is an eCommerce website? , Website vs online store Depending on who’s creating them, the purpose of a website can vary : Sharing information: Many websites exist simply to provide people with information. Think about your local library, city government or school—they all use their websites to keep you in the loop. These sites are all about making important details accessible to the public. Business and online sales: Companies rely on websites to present their products or services, handle transactions and offer customer support. Ecommerce features like shopping carts and secure payments make it easy for customers to shop online. Personal expression and blogging: Got a story to tell, a hobby you're passionate about or a portfolio of work you're proud of? A personal website or blog is the perfect place to share it. This is your corner of the internet where you can express yourself freely and put your creative work on display. Entertainment and media: Websites provide access to videos, music, games and news. Platforms for streaming or reading online content make entertainment easy to enjoy anytime, anywhere. Community and social connection: Online forums, social networks and groups let people meet others with shared interests, discuss topics and build communities online. Together, all publicly available websites form the World Wide Web, a global network that connects people, ideas and information across the world. Learn more: What is a wedding website? How does a website work? The first thing to understand is the internet and the web that provide a ground for websites. The internet is the technology or infrastructure connecting computers and facilitating information sharing. The web is the system that enables information sharing using the internet. It encompasses digital documents, websites, webpages, media and more. To view web content, we use web browsers like Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox or Safari. When you enter a web address or domain name into your browser, your computer sends a request to the hosting server. This request passes through the Domain Name System (DNS) to look up the server's internet protocol (IP) address . The web service uses protocols like Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) to transmit information and files over the web. Once the server receives the request, it sends back the requested webpage , along with images and other files, to your computer. The browser then displays the webpage using technologies like HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) . These technologies structure and present the information on the screen. Website loading time depends on a range of factors like server speed, internet connection quality and website size and complexity. Difference between website, webpage and web server Understanding the distinctions between a website, webpage and web server is key for effective navigation in the digital landscape. Let's use a simple analogy—imagine a bustling marketplace. The website is like the marketplace itself, and each webpage is a unique stall or shop within it. Similar to a marketplace, each webpage offers different products—information, images and services —just like the goods in a shop. Now, picture the internet as the city where the marketplace is located, a vast network connecting countless marketplaces (websites). It's like exploring a city full of interconnected markets, each with its own offerings. Webpage A webpage is a single document or page within a website. Websites can have multiple webpages, all linked together by hyperlinks, to display a cohesive website. The page you're currently on is a webpage. When you go to the home page, you're on a separate webpage, but still within the same website. Web server A web server is a computer that stores and delivers webpages to users when they request them. It is the physical location where all the files and data for a website are stored. When someone types in your website's URL, the server gets the necessary files and displays them to create the webpage. Website A website is a collection of webpages that are accessed with a single domain name or URL. It includes all the individual pages, multimedia details and files stored on a web server. Websites are built using languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript to make visually appealing layouts and functionality. Don't confuse websites and web servers. If someone says, "My website is not responding," it means the web server isn't responding, making the website unavailable. Remember, a web server can host multiple websites, but the term "web server" doesn’t refer to a specific website. In the previous example, if someone says, "My web server is not responding," it means multiple websites on that web server are unavailable. Learn more: Website vs blog vs forums Components of a website A website is a collection of webpages hosted on a web server. In order to create a website , you need several components. Here’s what you need to get started: Domain name To reach your site, individuals type in a unique web address that typically reflects your business or brand name and ends with a domain extension like .com, .org, or .net. Registering your website name with a domain registration company, also known as a domain registrar, is necessary to secure this distinctive internet address. Tip: When you make a website with Wix, you can opt for domain privacy for no extra fee, when you register your domain. Domain extension Also known as top-level domains (TLD), domain extensions can quickly identify specific elements of a website like its main purpose, owner or geographic location. You can check out ICANN’s complete list of domain extensions here . Webpages Webpages, also known as individual documents within a website, present information to users. Each webpage should serve a specific purpose and contribute to the overall user experience by providing valuable material, images and interactive elements. Some websites may be concise and focused, with only a few pages, while others offer an array of information and services to cater to diverse user needs. Web host This is the service that stores your website's files and makes them accessible to users on the internet. By choosing the appropriate plan for hosting a website , you can optimize performance, enhance security and provide an exceptional usability to your visitors. URL address The address of a website is also known as the Universal Resource Locator (URL) . When a user wants to open a website then they need to put the URL of the website into a web browser and the requested website is delivered by the web server. The URL of the Wix Blog for example, https://www.wix.com/blog is composed of three parts: Protocol identifier: Defines the protocol used to access the webpage (usually HTTP or HTTPS) Server name: Refers to the domain name and extension where the web server is located (wix.com) File name: Indicates the specific page or resource on that web server (blog) Homepage The homepage is a very common and important part of the website. It serves as the initial point of contact for viewers, setting the tone and guiding them to explore the rest of the website. Thinking through and making a homepage not only showcases the brand's identity but also directs users to other relevant pages. Navigation structure Website navigation is the order of pages and the collection of links that connect them. When done correctly, it creates a smooth and intuitive browsing. Typically, this structure is supported by one or more menus, strategically placed to make it easy for users to find what they need and move around the sections of the website. Templates A website template is a pre-made design that includes the layout, color scheme, font choice and all visual elements. It's like a ready-to-use blueprint for your brand's online presence. With Wix, you'll find a wide range of templates, from striking photography website templates to stylish blog templates . These templates can be customized to fit your brand and content needs. Multimedia elements These include a wide range of multimedia details such as images, videos, audio files and interactive website features like animations and adaptive content. When used correctly, these elements can make a website engaging, informative and visually appealing. Content Content is the information you put on your website to inform, guide, or influence visitors. This information can be presented with text, images, videos or audio recordings. Similar to website design , the primary responsibility of content is to keep people engaged, resulting in longer stays and repeat visits to your site. Additionally, well-optimized articles can improve your position on search engine result pages (SERPs), playing a crucial role in on-page search engine optimization (SEO). “ There are over 2 billion websites out there and we all visit many of them daily. With visual and textual content you have the opportunity to make a statement and have your site stand out. This is the place to add your brand personality. If you are more traditional, no need to go wild. Often, unique copy or a cool visual is all you need for your site to be memorable. ” Adi Huri, Product Manager at Wow for Wix Static vs dynamic websites When it comes to creating your website, you'll face an important decision: choosing between a static vs dynamic website . This choice will affect how your webpages are stored and delivered to users in their browsers. Let's take a closer look at these website structures. Static websites A static website is a collection of pre-written webpages that are displayed as published. These sites aren't interactive, meaning the material on each page remains the same until manually updated. The information and appearance of static websites remain consistent for all viewers, regardless of their browsers, locations or devices. Often, businesses opt for static websites to establish a simple online presence, as they are cost-effective without requiring server-side processing in multiple languages. While static webpages can't take input from users, they can still contain animations and clickable elements like hyperlinks or navigation buttons. This makes them a popular choice for portfolio and catalog sites. V-labs is an example of a static website. It displays text, images and navigation links that direct visitors to other pages. Dynamic websites Dynamic websites are more flexible and user-friendly. They can change information and appearance based on several factors, including the time of the day, visitor’s location, language preferences, past interactions with the site or device type. With these sites, the web server processes data in real-time to generate customized pages for each visitor. Dynamic websites can interact with users through forms, surveys, quizzes and other interactive factors that require server-side processing. This makes dynamic websites most suited for eCommerce business, social media, ticket booking and forums. These sites also allow individuals to set up accounts, login and access personalized information or services. Amazon.com is a popular example of a dynamic site. Its front page shows product recommendations to visitors based on their locations, purchases and search history. Learn more: Website vs social media Types of websites Websites can also be broken down into categories based on their objectives, features or target audiences. Whether you’re starting a business or simply want to learn how to make a blog , understanding the difference between these types of websites will help you get started. Blogs These sites are used to publish articles or posts in a chronological order, covering a wide range of topics from personal stories to news, as well as thoughtful essays, tutorials or practical advice lists. Keeping blog content up to date—as well as the feedback from users—must be constant. Many businesses start a blog to share news and information with their customers, using it as an SEO tool, attracting more organic visitors. Nowadays, professional blogging has emerged as a popular way to earn money online. As an interior stylist and digital content creator, Brit Arnesen uses her blog, britdotdesign , as a platform to provide web design inspiration and expertise to her readers. Learn more: Website vs Blog Ecommerce websites An eCommerce website is an online store that helps you sell products, services and digital goods online by enabling you to accept payments , process orders, manage logistics and shipping and offer customer help. These websites are made up of several webpages where businesses show their products and users can place orders online, complete the transaction and apply various payment methods. Adama Studio creates modern, practical ceramic items for everyday use. Their website has an online store where customers can easily purchase and have products shipped. Portfolio websites An online portfolio showcases a person's or business' work, skills and experience. It's used to attract prospective clients, employers or partners by sharing your previous projects. A portfolio website can house images, videos, descriptions of the services provided as well as client testimonials. Sharon Radisch is a multi-talented creative who works as a photographer, art director and artist. Her online portfolio highlights the various projects she has undertaken in each of these roles. Get inspired by these best portfolio websites . Websites for professional services Professional websites aim to encourage users to purchase products or services, but without strictly serving as an eCommerce site. The main individuals who are learning how to create a professional website come from various fields, including suppliers and service companies. Their sales process works best through a quote or an in-person appointment. Mango Marketing ’s website outlines their studio service packages for businesses looking to expand their business and enhance their online visibility. Landing page or single page sites One-page websites' popularity has grown because they are simple and easy to navigate. These websites concentrate all information on a single landing page , making them effective and cost-efficient for launching special products or services. Typically used by small businesses, they act as a digital business card , displaying contact information and advertising services. Animal Music Studios utilizes engaging videos and a navigation menu at the top to guide users to the different sections of the one-page site. News News websites present news articles, current events and other relevant information. They often include details like videos and images to support their stories. News sites update regularly and can be categorized into different sections such as world news, politics, sports or entertainment. As more individuals consume news online, newspapers have adapted by transitioning to digital. Many magazines and newspapers now offer subscription-based news sites as they no longer rely on print editions. New Wave Magazine is a digital publication that also offers print editions. Readers can access articles on their website and purchase print copies through their online store. Portal Portal websites are primarily used within educational institutions like schools and institutes, as well as businesses. They make things easier by providing various functions, including a secure login process for students to view their information like grades and schedules. Employees also benefit from these websites, as they offer a convenient way to access emails, alerts and other relevant information needed for day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Jule Dancewear , is a small business that sells dance apparel. They have a website where customers can create an account to save their profile information, view order history, save blog posts they are interested in and create wish lists of products they may want to purchase in the future. Forums Forum websites bring people with similar interests together to connect and engage with each other. You can use timelines, chats or specialized forums to interact. Social networking sites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Reddit are great examples of forums where you can connect with others who share your interests. Brown Skin Brunchin is a community for professional minority women. The website features a forum where members can connect by posting introductions, having discussions and sharing stories, ideas and photos. Membership websites Membership websites are built to offer exclusive content or experiences for registered users, often through a paywall. These sites usually include user accounts, dashboards and gated content organized by tier or subscription level. Depending on their purpose, members might get access to video libraries, premium articles, community forums or downloadable resources. These sites are popular with creators, educators, niche groups or professionals looking to share specialized content with a specific audience. They’re designed around consistent content delivery and engagement, often including progress tracking, exclusive newsletters or discussion boards to keep members connected. Educational websites Educational websites are designed to provide learning experiences through formal courses, casual tutorials or structured training. They often include multimedia lessons, quizzes, certification options and progress tracking to help learners follow a clear curriculum. These sites are used by institutions, tutors or independent creators. They can range from academic platforms to niche sites focused on specific skills or hobbies. Educational websites usually feature user accounts, discussion forums and resource libraries, giving learners the flexibility to move at their own pace while engaging with course materials in one place. Level5 CAD Academy provides practical dental courses online to help dental technicians and staff become pros in Dental CAD/CAM applications. With interactive quizzes, real-time feedback and certificates, the platform ensures users build confidence, skills and expertise in their field. Booking websites Booking websites let users book appointments, reserve spaces or schedule services with ease. These sites usually include interactive calendars, service descriptions, availability updates and confirmation systems. They’re perfect for businesses like salons, hotels, healthcare providers and consultants. Visitors can check available time slots, pick from different services or packages and book appointments directly on the site. The design focuses on being clear and simple, often with account systems so users can manage bookings or check their history. Event websites Event websites are designed to promote and manage physical, virtual or hybrid events. They’re built to share details like dates, times, locations, agendas, speaker lists and registration options. Many include countdowns, ticket purchase features and galleries from past events to spark interest. These sites might support recurring or one-time events and often use branding to match the event’s theme. Some even offer interactive features like live streams, maps or downloadable schedules, giving attendees everything they need in one place. The Global Ethnic Dance Festival website celebrates cultural diversity, unity and global traditions. It shares details about the festival's mission, performances and events, inspired by Sree Narayan Guru's vision of harmony and mutual respect. Personal websites Personal websites are a great way to share your work, achievements or personality. They often have a short bio, resume, personal projects and contact info, sometimes paired with a blog or portfolio. The design and tone give a glimpse into who you are and your style. Freelancers, students, artists and job seekers often use personal websites as a way to introduce themselves. These sites might include sections like testimonials, photo galleries or links to social media profiles. They’re a mix of professional and personal, making them perfect for networking and self-expression. Why you need a website Whether you are a small start-up or an existing company, the benefits of a website can not be understated. Increase competitiveness A website can enhance your brand identity and make you stand out among competitors. With many businesses relying on online sales, having an engaging and well planned website can give you a competitive advantage. A business website allows you to showcase your products or services in an attractive and informative manner, encouraging potential customers to choose your business over others. Reach a wider audience Reaching a larger audience beyond your local community is made possible by creating a website. With the internet, your business can be accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time. This increases your customer base and opens up opportunities for growth and expansion. Cost-effective marketing 79% of online buyers shop at least once per month. If you want to attract more people, one of the best ways is by making yourself visible on Google. You can employ search engine optimization (SEO) methods to help your website rank organically. Sell products and services online With an eCommerce website, you can sell your products and services online, reaching a wider customer base. This allows for 24/7 sales potential and removes geographical limitations. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular, making it essential for businesses to build an eCommerce site . How to create a website Now that you've learned about how websites work and the different types of websites, you might be considering one for your business. Let's explore what you'll need to start your own website. With this knowledge, you'll be empowered to build a website that suits your business needs. Ready to set up your website? Watch the 10 most essential Wix tutorials to get started. Outline your website idea The first step is to have a clear idea of what you want your website to achieve. This will help you determine the type of website that best suits your needs and goals. Consider what products or services you offer, who your target audience is and how you would like to present your brand online. Learn how to plan a website to help you in the following steps. Choose a domain name and web hosting Your domain name acts as the digital address of your site so users can easily find you online. When selecting a domain name, it's important to pick one that reflects your brand and is memorable. Avoid using hyphens and numbers and aim for a short domain name. If you're struggling to come up with ideas, try using our domain name generator to find a suitable name. Tip: Use Wix’s domain name search to check if your desired domain name is available. Pick a website building platform Fortunately, creating a website has become very accessible even for people without a technical background. In fact, you can turn your website idea into a fully functional site using a drag and drop website builder and all of the functionalities that come with it. Select a web hosting provider Once you've chosen a platform to build your website, you'll need a web host. Web hosting is the service that stores your website files and makes them available to your customers when they visit your site. Your host handles all the HTTP requests and delivers the necessary files to fulfill those requests whenever someone accesses your website. Web hosts also support you with backups, uptime and security maintenance. When selecting a hosting website , consider cost, features, security and support. Wix's free web hosting allows you to easily scale your hosting as your online business grows. Design your website Creating a successful website involves more than just visual appeal. It's about establishing a cohesive brand identity, ensuring a user-friendly experience and utilizing effective web design elements. Consider factors such as your logo, color schemes and typography to reflect your brand's personality. When designing a website of your own, you can use website templates that aligns with your brand and guides and prioritizes user interface (UI) to provide seamless browsing. Check out these examples of web design inspiration. Learn more: What is web design? Add page content and optimize for SEO Your content is the heart of your website. Use engaging and informative material to attract and retain visitors. Your website should be easy to navigate, with a clear call-to-action on each page to encourage users to take specific actions, such as completing a purchase or signing up for a newsletter. When creating your website, keep search engine optimization (SEO) in mind. This involves optimizing your website to improve its ranking on search engines like Google. This will help increase your visibility and drive more traffic to your site. Some tips for optimizing your website include using relevant keywords, creating high-quality information and ensuring fast page loading speeds. Learn more: What makes a good website Launch and maintain your website Once you've completed all the necessary steps, use a website checklist when launching a new website . However, building a successful online presence does not end here. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your site up-to-date. This means updating pages, monitoring for any technical issues and keeping up with SEO techniques to maintain or improve your search engine ranking. Additionally, regularly checking in with your audience and collecting feedback can help you continually improve and enhance your website's performance. What is a website FAQ What is the most common website type? The most common website type is a business or eCommerce website, followed by personal websites and blogs. However, this can vary depending on the purpose and industry of the website. With so many website types available, there is certainly one that will suit your needs and goals. What is the role of the DNS in a website? Domain Name System , or DNS is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses. This allows users to easily find websites by typing in a web URL instead of having to remember the numerical IP address associated with it. DNS is crucial for the functionality and accessibility of websites. What are website cookies? Website cookies are small text files that are placed on a user's device when they visit a website. They track and store information about a user's online activity, such as their preferences and browsing history. Cookies help websites remember users and provide more personalized contact with your website. However, websites must comply with privacy laws and inform users about the use of cookies on their site. Why do some websites look different on my phone? Websites can look different on mobile devices due to responsive design. This means that the website is able to adapt and adjust its layout based on the size of the screen it is being viewed on, providing a better user experience. Some websites also have a separate mobile version specifically designed for smaller screens. Businesses should have a responsive or mobile-friendly website to accommodate the growing number of users accessing websites on their phones. How much does it cost to build a website? The cost of building a website can vary depending on various factors such as the platform, design considerations and hosting services. It can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars for more complex and customized websites. However, there are also options for free or low-cost website builders available. When deciding the best option for your website, you should take into account your budget and goals. What is a website title? A website title is a concise and descriptive name given to a website. It serves as the main heading or name of the website and is typically displayed at the top of the browser window or in search engine results. The website title helps users understand the purpose or topic of the website and can also have an impact on search engine optimization (SEO) by including relevant keywords. How does a website CMS function? A content management system (CMS) is a software platform that allows users to create, edit and publish digital content on their websites without needing advanced coding skills. It provides an intuitive interface for managing all website elements such as design, layout, text, images and more. A CMS also enables multiple users to collaborate and contribute to website content, making it a valuable tool for businesses and organizations. What's a static website? A static website is a site with fixed content, where each page is pre-built and displays the same information to every visitor. It doesn’t change unless manually updated. Static websites are fast, secure and ideal for portfolios, blogs or informational sites since they don’t rely on databases or dynamic content. What's the difference between a static and dynamic website? A static website has fixed content that doesn't change unless manually updated. A dynamic website generates content in real-time, often using databases and user interactions, allowing for personalized or frequently updated information, like social media sites or e-commerce platforms.
- What is the Domain Name System (DNS)?
The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→ DNS, which stands for Domain Name System, servers act as the address book for the internet, translating human-readable website names into computer-readable IP addresses and vice versa. This system makes it possible for people to use easy-to-remember domain names to access websites, rather than having to remember long strings of numbers. A typical IP address number looks like this: 192.158.1.38. If we had to type something like this into our browsers anytime we wanted to find a website, the way in which we use the internet would look very different. Not only would it be a much more frustrating experience to start, but it would also be much more difficult for businesses and brands to stand out. Understanding the different parts of domain management When it comes to domain management, there are several key components that you need to be aware of. Each plays a distinct role in the overall functionality and performance of your website infrastructure . Understanding these different domains of management is crucial for ensuring that your website runs smoothly and remains accessible to your audience at all times. Domain name registration This is the first step in establishing your online presence. It's the process of choosing a domain name and then understanding how to register a domain name that is unique, reflects your brand and makes it easy for customers to find you. You can use this list of best domain registrars to help you decide where to register your domain. Web hosting Once you have a domain name, web hosting is where your website's data is stored and served to visitors. It's the physical space on a web server where all your website files live. If you go about learning how to make a website with Wix, web hosting is included as part of the setup and management of your Wix site. Name servers These act as signposts that direct traffic to where your website is hosted. When someone types in your domain name, the name servers ensure they are taken to the correct server. Domain management services These services offer a centralized platform to manage all aspects of your domains, especially if you have multiple websites. They can help with renewals, transfers and configuration changes. If you plan on making a website with a website builder like Wix, all of your domain management is taken care of for you. All you have to do initially is choose your domain name and then renew it every year. Web hosting vs. domain management The terms "web hosting" and "domain management" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different aspects of website operation. It's important for you to understand the distinction to manage your online presence effectively. Web hosting This service provides the server space where your website's files are stored. Companies like Wix offer various hosting plans to accommodate websites of all sizes. Your choice of hosting affects your website's speed, uptime and scalability. Cloud hosting, for example, is a good choice for reliability. Domain management Domain management involves overseeing the domain names associated with your business. This includes domain registration, renewal, transfer and ensuring that your domains point to the correct web host. Both web hosting and domain management are essential for a website's operation. Without a domain name, users won't have a way to find your site and without hosting, there would be no site for them to access. Why is domain management important for a business? Domain management is not just about keeping your website up and running it's a strategic business function that safeguards your brand and professional image online. Here's why domain management should be a priority for your business: Brand protection Your domain name is a valuable asset—it's how customers recognize and remember you. Effective domain management helps prevent cybersquatting, domain squatting and trademark infringement, ensuring that your brand remains uniquely yours. Professionalism A well-managed domain portfolio conveys professionalism and credibility. It shows that you are serious about your business and provides a trustworthy destination for customers. Data privacy With increasing concerns over data breaches, managing your domains with privacy protection services is more important than ever. These services help keep your personal information out of the public eye, reducing the risk of spam and potential security threats. By prioritizing domain management, you're not only protecting your assets but also reinforcing the integrity of your business online. How domain management protects your online assets Effective domain management plays a pivotal role in the protection of your online assets. Here are some ways in which domain management services do that: Preventing unauthorized transfers Domain management tools often include security features that prevent your domain from being transferred without your permission. This is crucial for avoiding domain hijacking. Domain privacy protection By masking your personal information in the public WHOIS database, domain privacy protection services help protect you from identity theft and reduce spam. Tips for effective domain management To maintain control over your website and ensure the security of your domains, consider these practical tips for effective domain management: Enable auto-renewal To prevent losing your domain name due to an overlooked expiration date, set your domains to auto-renew. This ensures continuous ownership without manual intervention each year. When you register your domain with Wix, you're notified in advance of the need to renew your domain. Two-factor authentication Add an extra layer of security to your domain management account by enabling two-factor authentication. This requires a second form of verification beyond just a password, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access to your site. Consolidate your domain portfolio If you own multiple domains, managing them through a single platform, like Wix, can simplify administration and reduce the chances of missing critical updates or renewals. Keep track of all domain registrations Maintain a detailed record of all your domain names, registration dates, and renewal deadlines. This will help you manage your portfolio effectively and make informed decisions about future registrations or consolidations. Register your domain name with Wix .
- How to make a forestry website that leaves an impression (+ examples)
Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix → Creating a forestry website presents a unique opportunity to connect the natural world with an online audience in a meaningful way. Your forestry website can be so much more than just your digital business card –it can tell your story, connect you with customers and even inspire others to care about our planet. So, how do you build a forestry website that's functional and serves your business goals? This guide will walk you through the entire process of understanding how to make a website, choosing the right website maker , sharing inspiring forestry website examples and give you design tips that are easy to follow. Let's get into it. Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. With Wix, you can customize and launch a professional website in minutes, no coding needed. We’re all about simplifying the process so you can focus on what matters most–bringing your ideas to life. So why wait? Let’s get started on creating the website you’ve always wanted. Why your forestry business needs a website In today's connected world, a professional website isn't just nice to have, it's a must. It helps you connect with new clients, establish your credibility and highlight your commitment to sustainability. Let's break down why your forestry business needs a website: Grow your reach: Think of your website as your 24/7 storefront, opening the doors to customers who may not have found you otherwise. Highlight your expertise: Your website is the perfect place to present your business as an established and credible business in the forestry industry. Add certifications, best-practices and anything that makes your business stand out. Connect with audiences: A website makes it easy for people searching for what you offer easy to find your business. Boost your income: Your forestry website isn't just for show –it's a powerful tool to explore new revenue streams, either through online sales or exclusive subscription. Educate and inspire: Share your story and show you're tackling challenges like deforestation while promoting a balance between growth and environmental care. A website is more than just a place for your business to live online, it's a tool that tells your story and helps your grow. Are you ready to learn how to create a forestry website that really works for you? Steps to building a forestry website Define your purpose Choose the right website builder Design and develop your website Include essential pages for forestry websites Add functional features Optimize for SEO Test and launch your website 01. Define your purpose Before you start to design your forestry website, take a step back and think about what you want to achieve. Start by learning how to plan a website and clearly define your goals. Are you focused on timber sales, promoting eco-tourism or offering forest management services? Having a clear and defined picture will guide your design choices, content and featured you'll need to include. The next step is to identity your target audience. Are they landowners, forestry professionals, researchers or the general public? to figure out the demographics of your audience, determine if your website's goals is to educate, promote services, sell products or connect with potential clients. Create content around frequently asked or searched for topics, like tree planting, forest health, timber haversting, reforestation and invasive species management. Research and gather important information, including data on local tree species, regional regulations, pricing for services and expert insights to make sure your website aligns with your business objectives. Learn more: How to make a personal website Webpage 02. Choose the right website builder The website builder you choose will make or break your site’s ease-of-use and growth potential. You’ll want a platform that’s intuitive yet powerful enough to handle your needs, like easy customization, eCommerce integration and mobile optimization. Look for a website builder that offers professional website templates made for businesses in the forestry and eco-friendly sectors. A great website builder should give you everything you need to create a site that reflects your brand and your goals, without needing to write a single line of code.Opt for a user-friendly website maker like Wix, which offers customizable templates and tools perfect for forestry businesses. It allows you to create visually stunning pages without requiring advanced technical skills, making it ideal for first-timers. Wix also provides various features such as free web hosting and SEO optimization to enhance your site's performance. It also supports eCommerce functionality for those looking to expand their business online. Wix includes support for a web server , making sure your website is smooth and reliable. Also, it offers tools to help you secure a domain name with features like domain name search to find the perfect web address for your website. You should also look at how much a website costs before you get started. Learn more: Simple website templates How to choose a website template What is a template 03. Design and develop your website Your forestry website should visually reflect the world you’re promoting. Think earthy tones, like greens, browns and blues to set the tone. Choose fonts that are clean and easy to read but also match the relaxed aesthetic of the outdoors. High-quality images of forests, timber and eco-tourism spots will help visitors understand the meaning of your mission. Keep the layout simple and intuitive–your website’s visitors should enjoy the experience, not get lost in complicated design. When designing your forestry website, focus on key elements that resonate with your audience. Start by including high-resolution images of natural environments to create an authentic and visually appealing experience. Choose clean, easy-to-read fonts that complement the visuals and maintain a professional, cohesive look. To enhance user engagement, consider adding subtle animations such as fading text or parallax scrolling, which can make the site feel more dynamic without being overwhelming. Finally, draw inspiration from existing templates that emphasize a green, natural aesthetic to capture the essence of your forestry business. Explore best AI website examples for inspiration on incorporating artificial intelligence into your site design, then use an AI website builder for a customized, visually appealing website tailored to your specific needs. This can help you significantly cut down how long it takes to build a website . Check out what web design is all about and implement what you’ve learned in your website. 04. Include essential pages for forestry websites A well-structured website with clear navigation helps visitors find what they’re looking for quickly. Here are essential website features to include: Homepage: The first thing visitors see, with a quick overview of what you do and why it matters. About us: Share your story, values and commitment to sustainability. Services or products page: List your services or products with clear descriptions and pricing details. Contant page: Make it easy for visitors to get in touch with a form, phone number and email address. Blog: Explore how to start a blog to share insights and updates about your forestry projects and initiatives. Create a blog about trends in forestry, conservation tips, or sustainable practices positions you as an expert and improves SEO. Project galleries: Include galleries showcasing your projects. Visual content is crucial for engaging visitors and demonstrating your work in forestry. Donation platforms: If applicable, integrate donation platforms to support reforestation projects or conservation initiatives. For guidance on integrating sales elements, learn how to make an eCommerce website . 05. Add functional features A website is more than just a digital brochure–it’s a tool to support your business. Depending on your business goals, consider adding: Booking tools: For eco-tourism tours or consultations. Ecommerce functionality: To sell timber, wood products or branded merchandise. Newsletter sign ups: To keep your visitors informed and engaged. Interactive maps or forest locations: So visitors can learn more about where your business is located. Including these features in your forestry website adds value for your users and simplifies your business operations. 06. Optimize for SEO You want your forestry website to be easy to find, and search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial. Start by using relevant keywords like “sustainable forestry,” “eco-tourism” and “time sales” throughout your content. Optimize images with descriptive alt text and make sure your website loads quickly, as search engines prioritize fast-loading sites. And with the rise of mobile internet usage, ensuring your forestry website is mobile-friendly is non-negotiable. Your website should look just as stunning on a smartphone as it does on a desktop. Your website won’t fulfill its potential if it doesn’t appear on search results. Make sure each page has a clear and compelling meta title and description. Strategically use internal and external links to connect content and enhance SEO. Also, optimize yourimages by adding alt text that includes relevant keywords. Lastly, regularly monitor and analyze your website traffic to understand visitor behavior, which can help refine your online strategy and improve overall performance. "Good SEO isn’t just about keywords—it’s about understanding what your readers are searching for and creating content that fulfills their needs. Following this approach builds trust and keeps your readers interested enough to come back." Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix 07. Test and launch your website Before hitting publish, make sure everything on your website works as it should. Thoroughly test across different devices –desktops, tablets and mobile–to make sure your forestry website functions properly. Check for broken links, slow-loading pages and any content that might need editing. Once everything looks good, launch your website with confidence. But don't stop there, keep monitoring, updating and optimizing as your business grows and evolves. Use a website launch checklist to help make sure everything is in the right place. Your next task is to start promoting your forestry website through various marketing channels like social media, email campaigns and SEO to drive traffic and attract visitors. Make sure to keep up with website management after your site is published. Maintaining your website ensures it continues to deliver an optimal experience for users. Best forestry website examples built on Wix Exploring website ideas can help you get started. Here are some of the best forestry websites built on Wix. Each of these examples showcases how to mix forestry visuals, intuitive functionality and a clear mission to create a website that works for both business and conversation goals. 01. Freelance Forestry Freelance Forestry stands out with its clean, professional design and easy-to-navigate layout. The site does a great job showcasing their consulting services, expertise in forest management and commitment to sustainable practices. With clear CTAs and detailed service pages, it’s an excellent example of how to effectively communicate your business offerings while maintaining a polished website. 02. Quality Forest Management Quality Forest Management uses a simple layout and forest-related imagery to present their mission of improving Montana’s forests. The homepage instantly draws visitors in with compelling visuals, while the services and team sections build trust and credibility. Their site emphasizes both their experience and their dedication to sustainable forestry. 03. Northwoods Forest Consultants, LLC Northwoods Forest Consultants ’ website beautifully captures the natural charm of the Adirondacks. Featuring earthy tones and nature-inspired imagery, it’s a visually cohesive platform that reflects their focus on forest consulting and management. The addition of a detailed blog also helps position them as experts while improving SEO. 04. Timberline Forestry Services Timberline Forestry Services does a great job balancing functionality and storytelling. The homepage highlights their dedication to sustainable forestry, while their “Services” page clearly explains what they offer. With an easy-to-use contact form and straightforward navigation, this site is a perfect example of how to keep things professional and approachable. Other types of websites to create How to make a winery website How to make an art portfolio How to make an auto repair website How to make a bakery website How to make a booking website How to make a car dealership website How to make a car rental website How to make a car wash website How to make a carpenter website How to make a church website How to make a coaching website How to make a construction website How to make a consulting website How to make a dog breeder website How to make a donation website How to make an electrician website How to make a fashion website How to make a finance website How to make a florist website How to make a furniture website How to make a gaming website How to make a handyman website How to make an interior design website How to make a landscaping website How to make a laundromat website How to make a locksmith website How to make a medical website How to make a pet business website How to make a forestry website FAQ How do you make money in forestry? Forestry offers different opportunities to generate income, depending on your expertise and focus within the industry. Common ways to make money include: Timber sales Eco-tourism Forest management services Non-timber products Carbon credits A professional forestry website can help you showcase these offerings and attract more clients or customers. What is the purpose of forestry? The purpose of forestry is to manage and conserve forests sustainably to meet current and future ecological, economic and social needs. It involves balancing timber production, wildlife preservation, water resource management and recreation. Modern forestry also emphasizes combating climate change through carbon sequestration and promoting biodiversity, making sure that forests remain a cornerstone for generations to come. What are some forestry companies? Several major forestry companies operate worldwide, managing timberlands and producing wood-based products. Weyerhaeuser (USA) and Rayonier (USA/New Zealand) are known for sustainable timber production. Stora Enso (Finland/Sweden) and Sappi (South Africa) focus on renewable materials and forestry innovation. Other key players include Resolute Forest Products (Canada) and Norske Skog (Norway), specializing in paper and pulp production. Why is forestry important? Forestry is essential for maintaining environmental balance, as forests absorb carbon dioxide and help combat climate change. They also support biodiversity by providing habitats for wildlife and preventing soil erosion. The forestry industry contributes to the economy through jobs in timber, paper and construction. Additionally, forests play a role in water regulation and offer recreational spaces that benefit mental and physical well-being.
- 7 best church website builders
Looking for the best way to build your website? Get started with Wix → In a digital world where people can order coffee, pizza or groceries with a single swipe on their phones. Shouldn’t connecting with a church be just as easy? A well-designed website provides your congregation with a digital home, letting you welcome both current members and potential visitors and easily promote church events. Plus, learning how to make your own website is a breeze when you use the right tools. With drag-and-drop website builders , diverse website templates and user-friendly interfaces, you can build your church website without dealing with HTML or CSS. This guide explores the best website builders for churches, along with tips on how to choose the right platform. Create a church website today and connect with your congregation online. When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. TL;DR: best church website builders Choosing the right website maker for your church is about more than just creating a pretty site. You need a platform that’s easy to use, built for your unique needs and helps your message reach more people. Here we highlight the best church website builders that combine intuitive editing, tailored features and mobile-friendly designs, so you can build a site that serves your community effectively without technical headaches. We selected these website builders based on the key qualities every church needs, from drag-and-drop simplicity to church-specific tools like donation options and event calendars. Our focus was on platforms that empower teams of all skill levels to manage content, reach new visitors through SEO and offer a seamless experience across all devices. What we looked for Why it matters for your church website Ease of use Intuitive drag-and-drop editors and no-code workflows make site management easy for volunteers and staff Customizable templates Mobile-friendly Christian-themed designs that reflect your church’s personality Church-specific features Built-in tools like event calendars, online donations, prayer requests and more Content management system (CMS) Multi-user access and simple content publishing empower your team to keep the site fresh SEO tools Options to customize meta tags, URLs, schemas and improve page speed to boost visibility Mobile-friendly Ensures your site looks great and functions well on any device, reaching people wherever they are 7 best church website builders Wix Subsplash ShareFaith Ministry Designs Church123 Nucleus Tithely 01. Wix Wix stands out as the ideal website builder for churches of all sizes, offering a perfect mix of simplicity and functionality. Its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface enables volunteers and staff with limited technical expertise to design their church websites without coding. You can choose from a wide range of professionally designed, customizable templates to get a head start. Or, you can let artificial intelligence do its thing via Wix’s AI website builder . Plus, with Wix’s social media integration, built-in search engine optimization (SEO) tools and scalable solutions, you can address all your website needs under one roof. In addition to that, Wix comes with built-in tools that cater to the needs of churches, such as event calendars, donation buttons and multimedia capabilities. As a result, you can focus on core activities instead of searching for band-aid solutions. “ Wix helped us build a clean, powerful online home that matches our vision,” says Keegan Burkhardt, global marketing director of The Supernatural Life . “ As we continue to reach people across the world, our online presence will always be a key part of how we disciple, equip and empower people.” Learn more: How to make a church website , church website examples Why we picked it: AI website builder Church website templates Robust SEO tools Advanced website design features 24/7 customer support Ideal for: Churches of all sizes. Pricing: $0-$159/month. Paid plans available. Free plan ($0) : Limited features with ads for small churches starting out. Light ($17/month): Basic features for churches focused on local community engagement. Core ($29/month) : Email marketing tools, online donation capabilities and video uploads for established churches. Business ($39/month) : Essential features for churches looking to grow their online presence. Business Elite ($159/month) : Unlimited storage for sermons, music and photos; also includes scaling capabilities for international churches. Enterprise : Custom plan for multi-site or international churches looking for a tailored solution. 02. Subsplash Subsplash offers a website builder for churches. With drag-and-drop blocks, integrated ministry tools and customized templates, it checks off most items in a new website checklist . In particular, Subspash comes with built-in livestreaming tools, so you can connect with your audience in real time. Additionally, it offers a searchable media library, integration with church platforms and up to 5TB of storage. While Subsplash’s digital platform comes with a lot of out-of-the-box features, it also has a steep learning curve. So, you might need dedicated technical staff to build a website using Subsplash. Why we picked it: Integration with church management tools Mobile-responsive designs Robust media hosting capabilities Ideal for: Medium-to-large churches looking for comprehensive digital platforms. Pricing: Contact for quotes. 03. ShareFaith ShareFaith is a church-focused website builder with an extensive media library. It comes with a collection of high-quality, Christian-themed images, graphics and videos that enable churches to create visually engaging websites. For a head start, you can choose from aesthetic templates with Christian themes, which you can customize to meet the needs of your church website. With ShareFaith, you’ll also get access to a sermon management tool. You can easily upload, organize and share your sermons for congregants to access at their convenience. Why we picked it: Extensive Christian media library Easy-to-use drag-and-drop editor Ideal for: Churches looking for a platform with educational resources. Pricing: Plans start at $20/month. 04. Ministry Designs Ministry Designs offers do-it-yourself (DIY) and done-for-you options. If you have tech-savvy staff members or volunteers, you can use Ministry Designs’ user-friendly tools to learn how to create a professional website . Otherwise, its done-for-you service is your best bet—it’s ideal for churches looking for professional assistance in setting up their websites. Additionally, Ministry Designs comes with church tools. You can use its sermon manager to upload, organize and share your messages online. Besides that, you can rely on its event calendar to communicate various activities, services and events to your church members. Why we picked it: Church-specific design and functionality Regular backups and security updates Unlimited pages, storage and bandwidth Ideal for: Churches seeking a balance between customization and ease of use. Pricing: Basic plan starts at $97/month. 05. Church123 Church123 aims to keep things as straightforward as possible and meets the needs of religious, nonprofit organizations. Church123 features a simple, user-friendly interface, which enables people with technical know-how to create and manage a church website. As a result, smaller churches can boost their online presence without hiring an IT expert. Despite Church123’s simplicity, it still comes with essential features a church needs. For instance, it offers sermon uploads, event management and basic SEO functionality. That said, if you’re looking for a fully customizable church website builder, Church123 might not be suitable as it doesn’t offer out-of-the-box integrations you’ll get from modern church website builders. Why we picked it: Built-in SEO tools Church-specific templates to choose from Customizable online contact forms Support for podcasts Video embeds Ideal for: Small churches looking for a simple, straightforward website builder. Pricing: No monthly plan. The quarterly plan is $75, and the annual plan is $295. 06. Nucleus Nucleus integrates with tools you already use, including Google Calendar and Planning Center, making your operations smoother. In addition to its website builder, Nucleus provides analytics and reporting tools. You can get valuable insights into website traffic, engagement metrics and other key performance indicators to understand how to serve your digital congregation. Why we picked it: Feature set for growing churches Customer support Contemporary church website designs Ideal for: Growing churches looking for a scalable solution. Pricing: $49/month. 07. Tithely Tithely offers a range of church-focused tools that simplify event management and online giving. If you’re interested in the website builder, you’ll love its user-friendly interface, mobile-responsive templates and tons of intuitive features. You can share sermons, publish events and let people plan their visit to your church. In addition to that, Tithely comes with a built-in giving tool for accepting donations, so you don’t have to rely on a third-party solution or pay a premium to unlock it. With its text messaging service, email marketing tools and church management software, Tithely also allows you to build a large community. That said, all of those features come at extra costs. Why we picked it: Support for text messaging and church app creation User-friendly interface Ideal for: Churches looking for online giving and engagement tools. Pricing: Free plans available; paid plans start at $72/month. Editor's note: All prices were correct as of December 21st, 2025. Learn more: Best AI website builder Best website builder for small business Best one-page website builders Personal website builders Free website builders Cheap website builder Travel website builders How to choose a church website builder Given the unique set of requirements of a church website, an ideal church website builder must excel in several departments. It should be intuitive, customizable and feature-rich. Ease of use Opt for an intuitive drag-and-drop website builder for a seamless experience. You may also benefit from AI features that turn your words into design, letting you create a stunning website layout without the hurdles of searching for individual website elements . Additionally, it’ll be easier to manage your church website if there are no-code workflows for content management, website maintenance and adding new functionalities. Customizable templates While you can probably tweak a sports website template to build a church website, it’ll require a lot of heavy lifting. Instead, simplify your online journey by opting for a website builder with Christian-themed templates and designs. Make sure the templates are mobile-friendly, since 96.3% of the world’s internet users use a mobile device to go online. Church-specific features Instead of relying on band-aid solutions based on other event websites , consider website builders that offer out-of-the-box support for event calendars, online donations , prayer requests and other church-focused features. Content management system (CMS) To make it easy for volunteers and staff members to build a website with limited technical expertise, choose a church site builder with an intuitive CMS . Team members should be able to create posts, add multimedia and publish content in just a few clicks. The CMS should also have multi-user access so team members can work together to upgrade the church’s online presence. SEO tools While a CMS allows you to publish your church content, a website builder helps you get the content across to search engines. In other words, you should be able to customize the meta tags of webpages and configure schemas, URLs and sitemaps to boost your search engine performance. The website builder should also support lazy loading , which helps you improve page speed. Mobile responsiveness Mobile responsiveness is a key feature to consider when choosing a church website builder. With more people using smartphones and tablets to browse the web, your site must adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes. A mobile-responsive design ensures your church's message, events and resources are easily accessible, no matter the device. Learn more: How to plan a website How much does a website cost How long does it take to build a website Trends in church website building This year, church websites are all about keeping things clean and guiding your community exactly where they need to go. We're seeing a shift toward minimalist designs that prioritize mobile-friendly layouts and clear, intuitive navigation. Whether someone is looking for service times, planning their first visit or wanting to give online, the path should be obvious. But simple doesn't mean boring. Interactive touches like parallax scrolling and micro-animations can turn a standard site into an experience that really connects with people. Visual storytelling is also taking center stage. Instead of stock images, churches are using authentic videos and real photos to share their unique personality before a visitor ever steps foot in the building. Think hero videos that welcome newcomers and genuine snapshots of your congregation in action. Combined with bold typography and modern options like dark mode, these elements make a site look great while ensuring it's easy for everyone to use. Functionality is just as vital as the design itself. By using straightforward forms and integrating social media, you can keep the conversation going with your members all week long. Automated communication tools help you stay organized, while analytics let you see what your visitors are actually looking for. When all these pieces work together, your website becomes a welcoming space that answers needs and strengthens your community. Best church website builders FAQ How to set up a website for a church? To set up a church website, start by choosing a website-building platform that’s easy to use, like Wix, with templates designed for churches. Register a domain name that reflects your church’s identity. Select a design template and customize it to include key information like services, events and contact details. Add features like an events calendar, donation options and sermon recordings to engage your congregation. Once everything is set up, publish the website and share the link with your church community. What does a church website need? A church website should include essential elements like service times, location and contact details to inform visitors. Add an "About" section to share your church’s mission and values. Include a calendar of events, sermon recordings, a photo gallery and an option for online giving or donations. Engaging features like testimonials, a blog and links to social media can help strengthen your connection with the community. Make sure the site is easy to navigate so both new and returning visitors can find what they need quickly. Which website domain is generally for churches? The domain generally used for churches is .church . This domain extension is specifically designed for religious organizations, making it a popular choice for churches looking to establish an online presence. What are examples of good websites for small churches? Good websites for small churches focus on connection and simplicity. User-friendly designs with clear navigation make it easy to access service times, event calendars and sermon archives. Tools like donations and prayer request forms encourage engagement, while photo galleries and social links build community. Is Wix good for churches? Wix is a great choice for churches. Its user-friendly editor is great for staff or volunteers to build a website without any coding, technical or design experience. Key features include easy-to-manage event calendars for services, integrated audio/video players for sermons and secure donation tools for online tithing, making it an effective website builder for congregations to manage their church. What are some pitfalls to avoid when building a church website? When creating a church website, focus on clarity and ease of use. Keep key details like service times, location and “Plan Your Visit” front and center, and feature real photos of your congregation to build trust. Make sure your site is mobile-friendly, donations are easy and sermons are easy to find and enjoy. Use clear, approachable language so anyone visiting your site feels informed and at home.
- 6 best website builders for graphic design portfolios
Build your website in minutes, try Wix for free today → Your graphic design portfolio deserves more than just a basic website; it should be a visually stunning showcase of your creativity. But with so many options, how do you find the best website builder for your needs? The right website builder for desi gners should offer sleek portfolio templates , SEO optimization and an intuitive drag-and-drop builder. If you want to learn how to build a website from scratch , we've got you covered. Let’s explore the best website builders for graphic design portfolios to help you make a website that truly stands out—from AI website builders that automate site designs to platforms offering DIY customizable websites. Showcase your work professionally—learn how to create an online portfolio . When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. TL;DR: website builders for graphic design portfolios Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of work—it’s your brand, your pitch and your first impression. In this post, we highlight standout website builders that help graphic designers showcase their style, skills and personality online. Whether you're presenting case studies, selling prints or landing new clients, these platforms offer the creative freedom and performance features to support your goals. We focused on builders that combine sleek design options with the practical tools designers need to stand out in a competitive space—so you can turn your site into a powerful part of your business. Website builder Standout features Pricing Wix Studio Drag-and-drop editor, advanced responsive grid, motion effects, custom CSS, AI-powered workflows, SEO tools, eCommerce From $19/month (billed annually) Wix AI design tools, customizable templates, media galleries, free hosting, eCommerce, SEO and analytics tools Free plan ; Premium from $17/month (billed annually) Format Clean portfolio templates, built-in SEO, mobile optimization, basic eCommerce From $8/month (billed annually) Carbonmade Drag-and-drop layouts, responsive design, brand customization, basic SEO features From $9/month (billed annually) Dunked Minimalist templates, easy drag-and-drop, supports images and videos, straightforward design From $8/month (billed annually) Semplice Full layout control, custom animations, typography settings, modules, basic SEO One-time license from $119 per site What is a graphic design portfolio website? Graphic design portfolio w ebsites are the types of websites designers use to showcase their creative work, skills and personal brands online. Whether you're a freelance designer, an agency or an aspiring creative, a portfolio website is a digital resume that helps you attract clients, employers and collaborations. The best graphic design portfolio websites typically include: A curated portfolio displaying high-quality images of design projects, from branding to digital illustrations. Case studies that explain the design process, challenges and final outcomes to showcase problem-solving skills. An about page with a personal bio, creative journey and design philosophy. Client testimonials or reviews to build credibility and trust. Contact information or an inquiry form for potential clients and job opportunities. Support to start a blog or insights section to s hare design tips, trends or behind-the-scenes processes. "An outstanding portfolio is all about storytelling. It’s not just a showcase of work but a narrative that weaves together a professional’s skills, creativity, and personality. Features like dynamic presets, AI setup and beautiful templates let creators bring their stories to life, ensuring that every portfolio not only stands out for its aesthetic appeal but also tells a compelling story about the creator behind it." - Hani Safe, product lead (Showcase) at Wix Learn more: About us page Contact us pages How to start a blog How to start a graphic design blog What to look for in a website builder for graphic designers Top website builders combine graphic-designer-specific features with those of traditional websites, lik e reliable uptime , hosting, domain name management, website security , performance optimization and search engine optimization (SEO). Whether you're building your company’s graphic design website , a personal portfolio or a portfolio website for clients, the right website builder for designers should also offer flexibility, customization and performance. Here’s what to look for besides site reliability and scalability : Drag-and-drop builder for easy customization: A drag-and-drop website builder helps both beginners and professionals create custom websites without coding, making it an excellent choice for freelancers, startups and agencies. AI-powered design tools: Find an AI-driven website builder that helps build a graphic designer website with automated suggestions and smart layout adjustments. High-quality media galleries to showcase work: To help highlight your best work with templates that support high-resolution images, videos and animations. Extensive portfolio templates for every style: This way, you can access website templates that support the needs of graphic designers, allowing for a truly creative portfolio. Custom animations and parallax scrolling: To bring your website to life with features such as parallax effects, hover animations and scroll-triggered elements, helping you create one of the best portfolio websites available. Seamless eCommerce integration: The best website builders for small businesses , freelancers and agencies should support eCommerce features, allowing graphic designers, artists and creatives to sell their services directly through their portfolio website. You might also like: How to make money as a graphic designer What is a domain name What is web hosting How to host a website Best portfolio websites Best website builders for graphic design portfolios Wix Studio Wix Format Carbonmade Dunked Semplice 01. Wix Studio Wix Studio is a robust website builder specifically for graphic designers, creatives and agencies that boasts powerful tools to create stunning portfolios. With its drag-and-drop builder, users can easily customize responsive templates to create professional portfolio websites that showcase their design work. Wix Studio offers premium design assets and libraries with enhanced motion effects, code-free animations, parallax scrolling and custom CSS capabilities to enhance the web design process and elevate your site’s visual appeal. Plus, with Wix Studio SEO tools , you can easily optimize your site for search engines. The platform also provides advanced responsive design controls and flexible grid options for better layout customization. And with Wix Studio AI , you can streamline creative and marketing workflows, making it easier to execute projects efficiently. Wix Studio also includes features for seamless eCommerce integration through Wix Studio eCommerce , making it an ideal platform for designers looking to sell their work online. Additionally, third-party design and marketing integrations enable seamless connectivity with external tools for enhanced functionality. Pricing: Plans start at $19 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. Comparing Wix Studio: Wix vs. Wix Studio Wix Studio vs. Elementor Wix Studio vs. Shopify Wix Studio vs. Framer Wix Studio vs. Webflow Wix Studio vs. Duda Wix Studio vs. WordPress 02. Wix Wix is a versatile and free website builder perfect for professional and freelance graphic designers looking to showcase their creative or web design portfolios . With its intuitive platform, Wix provides all the necessary tools and flexible solutions to create stunning, customizable portfolio websites that cater to designers of all levels. To start, Wix offers a drag-and-drop website builder with AI-powered design options, making it one of the best AI website builders available. It also includes portfolio layouts , integrated media galleries, Wix analytics , SEO tools and integrations for extended functionality and marketing. You can also access eCommerce features with Wix, enabling you to sell your digital services easily. With free website hosting and the ability to connect your own domain name , Wix is an excellent option for anyone looking to build a professional online portfolio or standout graphic design resume without breaking the bank. Pricing : Free plan available. Premium plans start at $17 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. Be inspired by these portfolio website examples to get started. 03. Format Format is a minimalist website builder for creative professionals who want to create a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate graphic designer website. With a focus on website performance and clean aesthetics, Format allows freelance and agency designers to create an engaging online portfolio that showcases their work in a streamlined, simple and stylish way. While Format doesn’t offer AI tools, users get portfolio templates with built-in customization and mobile-friendly design controls. It also supports third-party integrations and offers built-in SEO and eCommerce features. Pricing: Paid plans start at $8 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 04. Carbonmade Carbonmade is a drag-and-drop website builder for creatives prioritizing speedy web page setups. This website builder offers fluid layouts and a user-friendly experience, making it attractive to designers who want to focus on creativity rather than coding. Carbonmade supports users in building a brand-aligned professional portfolio as freelancers or creative agencies. Designers looking for a cheap website builder with automatic website display optimization across devices and basic website customization and SEO features can find a good solution in this platform. You can add a contact section for visitors to inquire about your services, but if you’re looking for more fleshed-out eCommerce capabilities, you may want to look at a builder like Wix instead. Pricing: Plans start at $9 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 05. Dunked Dunked helps designers create an online portfolio free from distractions. This platform is also one of the best one-page website builders for small businesses and freelancers who need a simple digital presence. Users who prioritize creativity over business, marketing and advanced customization features might consider Dunked a good choice. After all, Dunked offers a drag-and-drop builder with minimalist, customizable templates, supporting images, videos and embeds. Pricing: Plans start at $8 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 06. Semplice Semplice is a WordPress-based website builder for professionals who prioritize customization in their design portfolios. It supports designers who want to control their website layouts and create unique interactions, but it also provides a website launch checklist for starters. Users can access various typography and design settings, modules and integration options. Semplice also offers a WYSIWYG editor, media library, custom animations and basic SEO features. Pricing: Licenses start from $119 per website. Editor's note: Pricing is accurate as of July 26th, 2025. Learn more: Best AI website builder Best website builder for small business Best one-page website builders Personal website builders Free website builders Cheap website builder Best membership websites Best plumbing website builders Best website builders for graphic design portfolios FAQ Should a graphic design portfolio be a website? Yes. A website elevates a designer’s portfolio b eyond PDFs or social media, offering a professional, interactive showcase. For instance, Wix Studio, in particular, allows for immersive experiences with animations and interactions resulting in a level of engagement that would be hard to achieve with a conventional portfolio. Just remember to perform a domain name search before you start building your design website to ensure your desired name is available. You can also find graphic design business names that match your brand using the Wix domain name generator . How do I make my portfolio website look good? Making a graphic design portfolio that stands out involves balancing aesthetics with clarity. Use a clean layout, showcase only your best work and incorporate high-quality images. To do that, you’ll need a personal website builder like Wix, which provides designer-focused tools and templates that’ll help you achieve your goals. Also, remember to be thoughtful about typography and whitespace to enhance the user experience. Learn more: How to make a website accessible Tips for online design portfolio How to make a website mobile-friendly What website builder is best for graphic designers? Wix and Wix Studio stand out with advanced customization, motion effects and client engagement, enabling designers to create immersive, monetizable experiences. Furthermore, Wix includes resources like a business email, phone number, scheduling software for client appointments and a logo maker for your branding needs.
- 9 best plumbing website builders for businesses who want more leads
Build your website in minutes, try Wix for free today → Plumbing is one of those essential services that will always be in demand. But if your business is n’t online yet, you run the risk of losing potential customers to competitors who are. These days, most people turn to the web when searching for a new plumber, highlighting the fact that learning how to make a website is more important than ever. Fortunately, you’ve also got some of the best plumbing website builders at your disposal to make this task easier. Whether you want a drag-and-drop website builder or an AI website builder to get the job started, these tools make the process fast, efficient and enjoyable, too. Keep reading to discover the best free and paid plumbing website builders on the market today. We’ll dive into the benefits of the most affordable tools available, while diving deep into the specific features each provides. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for when choosing a plumbing website builder to create the best website for your business. Learn more: What is a website builder? Construction website builders Website builders for service businesses Traditional vs AI website builders When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. TL;DR: best plumbing website builders A well-designed website can help your plumbing business show up where it counts—online. This guide compares website builders that make it easier to create a professional, lead-generating site. Whether you're looking for a quick setup, AI guidance or tools that support long-term growth, you'll find options that suit a range of goals and budgets. Some builders focus on simplicity, while others offer more advanced design and marketing tools. Use this guide to choose a platform that matches your workflow, fits your business stage and helps you grow at your own pace. Compare top plumbing website builders Website builder Key features Pricing (starting at) Wix Logo maker & domain name generator, platform to start a blog & automatic mobile optimization, AI assistance & SEO features, contact forms & integrated testimonials, eCommerce website functionality & email marketing Free plan available; paid plans from $17/month 10Web AI website builder, business name generator, eCommerce support Free plan available; paid plans from $10/month Carrd One-page layouts, eCommerce store capabilities, mobile optimization Free plan available; paid plans from $9/year Jimdo AI setup, local listings sync, built-in contact forms Free plan available; paid plans from $11/month B12 AI prompts, expert support available, email marketing Free plan available; paid plans from $42/month Weebly Drag-and-drop editor, eCommerce tools, mobile templates Free plan available; paid plans from $11.99/month Duda Client-focused tools, dynamic content, responsive templates 14-day trial; paid plans from $19/month Strikingly Quick setup, mobile-first design, LinkedIn-based starter option Free plan available; paid plans from $8/month Yola AI builder, contact forms, simple layout options Free plan available; paid plans from $6.95/month Editor's note: The information presented in this table is true as of March 4, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise. The benefits of plumbing website builders If you’re ready to make a plumbing website, it makes sen se to use a plumbing website builder to get the job done. These tools are great for making a service-based type of website —from their beginner friendly qualities and design efficiency, to providing you with savvy features for business growth, too. Instead of hiring a pricey web designer or developer, let’s consider why a plumbing website builder makes the process of how to make a plumbing website easier. Easy-to-use: You don't need technical skills to use the website builders on our list. We sought the best platforms using drag-and-drop website editors and AI website building technology, making sure that whichever builder you choose, you’ll have an intuitive, user-friendly experience. Cost-efficient: A website builder is the perfect way to cut down on plumbing website costs . Whether you’re looking for free website builders or paid plans, compared to hiring a professional designer or agency, these builders will only be a fraction of the cost. Integrated tools for growth: Plumbing website builders provide all-in-one solutions to support your business beyond its web design stages. From social media and email marketing , to website analytics and bookings capabilities, you'll have more tools for marketing and business growth at your hands. Built-in optimization: From free web hosting and search engine optimization (SEO) tools, to website security and speed—these are just some of the optimization features a website builder takes care of behind-the-scenes to give your customers a great experience and superior site reliability . "I think the biggest game-changer is the fact that you can easily create a stunning website, and you don’t need to understand layout, design or anything to get a great working website. You can get the creative juices flowing with AI’s help and Wix’s expertise until you get exactly what you want." - Yaara Asaf, head of product (Wix Editor) Learn more: How to start a plumbing business Plumbing business name ideas How to create a plumbing business plan 9 best plumbing website builders Wix 10Web Carrd Jimdo B12 Weebly Duda Strikingly Yola 01. Wix Out of all the platforms on our list, Wix is the best website builder for small businesses like yours. From versatile web design features and intuitive editor, to intricate marketing and business tools—Wix’s all-around platform has the strongest foundation to get you started. With a full ecosystem to support scalability for your plumbing business, users can choose to streamline their creation process with an AI website builder or use customizable website templates with the help of drag-and-drop editor. Wix provides 2000+ templates, including plumbing website templates with modern and industry-specific designs. Each web page is designed to attract and engage new customers, with the goal of improving conversion rates. For example, they already include sections for displaying plumbing and handyman services and scheduling software for customers who want to book and pay for appointments online. Wix’s leading SEO tools are especially important for your plumbing business. Wix provides each site with basic formatting for optimization, but also gives you the freedom to control your own SEO settings, with advanced SEO tools and a personalized on-page SEO checklist option for guidance. You’ll also have access to important features like immediate indexing, Google Search Console and a Google Business Profile integration to maximize your site’s visibility in local search queries. “Wix users can see their page in the search results immediately after they created it. There’s no waiting. There’s no wondering, ‘Am I on search or not?’ Within seconds, they’re on Google.” - Mariya Moeva, Product Manager at Google Once your site is live, Wix Analytics tools will help you monitor growth and performance. Here, you can learn insights on website visitors and user behavior, gaining information that can reveal actionable ways to improve. Outstanding Wix features: Logo maker & domain name generator Platform to start a blog & automatic mobile optimization AI assistance & SEO features Contact forms & integrated testimonials eCommerce website functionality & email marketing Wix's AI Custom Agenta no-code platform that lets you create specialized AI agents tailored to your unique business needs. Pricing: Free plan available. Premium plans start at $17/month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. Learn more about the best AI website builders to get your plumbing website up and running quickly. 02. 10Web 10Web offers a great AI platform with a user-friendly editor that’s designed for building a quality site with speed and ease. As a business owner, you know that sometimes the hardest part of a big project is getting started. 10Web makes building a website easy with its AI technology, guiding users from envisioning their website to refining their content. The best plumbing website builders prioritize dependable website performance , and 10Web definitely delivers in this department. Their platform has proved to be reliable when it comes to uptime , which is important for a great user experience. Each website on 10Web is also mobile optimized, so potential customers browsing your services from their smartphones can stay engaged and book their services on-the-go. Outstanding 10Web features: Managed by WordPress hosting AI website builder, SEO tools & eCommerce capabilities Business name generator & analytics integration Blog creation & mobile optimization 2,500+ professional templates Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $10/month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans available. Learn more about how much it costs to create a business website. 03. Carrd Carrd is one o f the best one-page website builders on our list, specializing in fully responsive websites with an easy-to-use and streamlined process. A one-page format is a great option for plumbing businesses, since they simplify the user experience and keep your site’s content focused by including only the most essential sections and content. Simple websites like this are also great for mobile, since the low storage necessities make it better for website speed. If your goal is simplicity, this is the best plumbing website builder for entrepreneurs and small businesses who need a quick solution. This cheap website builder is definitely an affordable option—but if you’re planning for growth, Wix is the better c hoice with its all-in-one solutions. Carrd’s collection of website templates are designed with clean visual themes that emphasize a professional appearance and great user experience. Whether you start with one of these, or build your site from scratch, the platform’s responsive technology gives you the peace of mind that their site will always be optimized for mobile users. Outstanding Carrd features: Mobile optimization & SEO tools Contact form add-ons Google Analytics integration Email marketing with Mailchimp Ecommerce store capabilities Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $9/year. 04. Jimdo Jimdo is a great option for designing plumbing websites with little hassle—especially if you're a small business owner doing this on your own. The platform is known for its AI website building technology and easy setup, while emphasizing business solutions despite this simplicity. Jimdo starts by asking questions about your plumbing business’s services and goals, where you can add links to social media if you have it. From there, it will suggest design layouts and templates to make the decision easier and help you understand what your website design is best suited for your business. One of the most appealing aspects of this plumbing website builder is its business listings feature. This syncs information about your plumbing services across over 10 listing platforms automatically, helping to improve search rankings and put your business on the local map. It includes web analytics tools to help you understand which platforms are getting you the most traffic, and automated synchronization to make sure your business information is accurate and up-to-date across the web. Outstanding Jimdo features: Mobile optimization AI assistance Contact forms Built-in analytics eCommerce capabilities Google Business listings SEO features Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $11/month. 05. B12 B12 is an AI-powered website builder with an impressive list of all-in-one tools designed for service-based businesses. One of the unique features for business owners is they have a bank of AI prompts available to start with, which guides you on how to use their tools for your plumbing site. These prompts are designed to present you with templates to promote and build your business online. For example, service request forms, detailed service pages, testimonial sections and even blogs are ready-to-use. When your template’s ready, you can design and update it yourself, or hire B12 experts to touch it up for you—whether that’s with an in-house web designer or a content writer to create written copy for your site. Overall, B12 stands out in terms of customer resources. They have a dedicated collection of tutorial videos where you can gain advice and help with your design, SEO and more. The platform also offers website management to help handle regular website updates and maintenance for you. Outstanding B12 features: AI assistance Blogging features SEO tools Email marketing Custom forms Website analytics Mobile optimization Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $42/month ( billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 06. Weebly Weebly is a solid, reliable and easy-to-use plumbing website builder that’s a great option for plumbing and maintenance businesses. They’ve got a collection of website templates and themes to choose from, all of which are optimized for mobile devices. And while their drag-and-drop editor is built for simple use, it does include some more advanced design features compared to others on the market. To boost your site’s visual appearance and even solidify your online branding, the editor includes options like adding custom fonts, or implementing parallax scrolling and video backgrounds for a more engaging design. In terms of user experience, one nice navigation feature to give visitors is the “search option” allowing them to quickly search items like “plumbing services” or “pricing” on your site. Outstanding Weebly features: SEO tools eCommerce functionality Integrated analytics Email marketing Blogging platform Mobile optimization Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $11.99/month (promotions available). 07. Duda Duda is a great plumbing website builder that helps you work efficiently while giving your business tools to scale. It focuses on design features for agencies and web design freelancers, so if you’re the one hired to create a plumbing website, this can definitely be the platform for you. Aiming for simplicity and brand-building, Duda’s web editor is clean and impressive, allowing you to efficiently design a unique website whether you start from scratch or use one of their templates. However, once you start with a template, you can’t switch templates afterwards. While you can leave some of your content stored, changing templates requires you to rearrange elements to fit the new layout, which is easier to do with some other builders on our list. Although this is more advanced, one of the ways Duda stands out is by giving users the chance to build dynamic pages for website visitors. This means a more optimized design where you can choose to display different content based on visitors behavior. For example, you can add a promotion for first-time visitors with a discount for your services, or bring strong attention to booking tools if it’s returning customers. Outstanding Duda features: SEO tools AI assistance Mobile optimization Blogging tools Google Analytics integration Pricing: Free 14-day trial and paid plans. Paid plans start at $19/month. Month-to-month plans are also available. 08. Strikingly Strikingly is a tool beloved by business owners for its quick setup and no-frills design process. However, because it’s so easy to use, this definitely means less customization. Their template library includes attractive themes that are pretty straightforward visually—and while there aren’t many industry-specific options for plumbers, the modern and professional designs are just what you need to start an online presence. A template selector tool can help you narrow down options, and you can easily swap templates during the creation process without needing to start over again. Strikingly emphasizes one-page websites that include scroll and menu features built specifically for this purpose. As a plumbing website builder, that can be a great way to get started with your online presence, allowing you to hone in on specific content like showcasing your services and prices, and encourage visitors to learn more. Another great feature is the ability to create a site by giving Strikingly your LinkedIn account, which takes the info to kickstart your process. Although Wix has similar features that deliver more intricate results in comparison, it's a nice option for delivering templates with the elements you need to build a brand. Outstanding Strikingly features: SEO tools AI assistance Mobile optimization Blogging tools Integrates with Google Analytics Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $8/month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 09. Yola Yola is an easy-to-use website builder with a straightforward approach, using AI technology through every step of the creation process. Its AI builder will form the foundations for your site—from its layout and color scheme, to helping you craft the perfect website copy to inform and engage visitors. The drag-and-drop editor makes use of pre-designed blocks to match your website theme, which leans more on the benefits of automation instead of customization. One of the best advantages of this platform is its affordability, with free and low-cost plans that still provide essential features like custom domains and SEO tools. While its templates are less design-forward than a builder like Wix, they emphasize features for growing businesses such as clear service sections, testimonials and customized contact forms. Outstanding Yola features: AI assistance eCommerce functionality Analytics and reporting SEO tools Mobile optimization Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans starting at $6.95/month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. Editor's note: The information presented in this article is true as of March 4, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise. How to choose the best plumbing website builder Plumbing websites don’t need to be trendy, they need to support your business needs. When considering what is the best plumbing website builder, here are some features you should never compromise on: Domain names: Registering a custom domain name is a great way to brand your business, and will also help with visibility in search engines. Find a builder that gives you the option to connect your own domain name, even if it's not something you want to start. When looking for the perfect web address, a domain name search is a great place to start. Learn more about what is a domain name and why it's a significant part of your online presence. Mobile optimization: The website builder you choose should provide automated mobile optimization to make the process of how to make a website mobile-friendly easier. Reliable performance: Website performance includes fast-loading pages, secure delivery and depends on efficient web hosting. The best plumbing website builder should offer web hosting as part of their service, making the process of how to host a website easy and worry-free, while giving you insights into how quickly your site loads and prioritizing optimization across all devices. Learn more about web hosting and why it matters. Marketing and business support: Plumbing websites need to attract and convert customers, so you should choose a tool that helps you run your business. Whether it’s online advertising, SEO support or marketing tools to help you stand out, or simple things to make operations grow and run smoother, like online bookings and email capabilities. Discover the best website builders for SEO . Templates that convert: Website templates make the design process easier no matter what, but they’re even better with built-in elements to turn visitors into paying customers. On top of obvious solutions like bookings and payments, this includes an emphasis on conversion-oriented details such as pop-up windows, coupon templates and strategic CTA buttons. Web accessibility: Your site should be inclusive for all visitors, which means paying special attention to web accessibility guidelines that foster support for customers with disabilities. The best plumbing website builders design with these rules in mind, giving you built-in tools and guidance for how to make a website accessible . Ready to get your plumbing website started? Be sure to have our website launch checklist handy to make sure you’ve got all the necessary elements covered before publishing. Plumbing website builder FAQ How to create a plumbing website? To create a plumbing website, you’ll need a user-friendly website builder that offers customizable templates, SEO tools and mobile responsiveness. Start by choosing a domain name that represents your business, then design your site with essential pages like services, about, contact and customer reviews. Make sure to optimize your website for local search so potential clients can find you easily. Additionally, consider implementing plumbing marketing strategies like blog content, testimonials and online booking features to attract and convert leads. What is the best platform to advertise a plumbing business? The best platforms to advertise your plumbing business depend on your target audience. Google Ads is a top choice for capturing leads from people actively searching for plumbing services. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great for local engagement and brand awareness. You can also leverage Yelp and Angi to gather customer reviews and attract more clients. Pairing these platforms with a strong plumbing marketing strategy ensures maximum visibility and lead generation. Do plumbers need websites? Yes! A website is essential for any plumbing business. It serves as your online storefront, helping potential customers find your services, read reviews and contact you easily. Without a website, you could be missing out on valuable leads. A well-designed site with clear service descriptions, customer testimonials and including a custom plumbing slogan can help build trust and credibility, setting you apart from competitors. Is Wix good for plumbers? Wix can be great for plumbers. It offers professional website templates designed for plumbers, making setup quick and easy. Key features like built-in contact forms for quote requests and strong local SEO tools help customers find and contact you efficiently within your service area.
- 5 of the easiest website builders to use in 2026
Build your website in minutes, try Wix for free today → Learning how to build a website doesn’t require a tech background—or even much time. Whether you're launching a new business, creating a portfolio or growing your personal brand, the right website builder can help you get online quickly and confidently. From traditional drag-and-drop editors to the latest AI website builder tools, there’s never been a better time to learn how to build a website from scratch. The challenge? Choosing the platform that makes the process as smooth as possible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five of the easiest website builders to use this year. We’ll cover what makes each one stand out—from ease of use to design flexibility—so you can find the best fit for your next project. When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. What features make a website builder easy? Creating a website shouldn’t feel like assembling a puzzle with missing pieces. The easiest website builders bring together simplicity and powerful tools so anyone can design a professional site with confidence. Whether you're starting your first blog or building an online store, the right tools can help you create a site you’re proud of. Do you need a website ? The answer is yes, and here’s what to look for in the best website builders that prioritize user-friendliness. Intuitive interface "The power of a good website builder lies in its simplicity,” says Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix. “An intuitive interface empowers users to build their vision without feeling overwhelmed.” The best platforms use a drag-and-drop interface, letting you move elements exactly where you want them. This makes customization seamless, without needing any coding expertise or worrying about complex design elements. Templates Starting with a ready-made design can save hours of work. The easiest website builders offer a library of tailored website templates for blogs, eCommerce stores, portfolios and more. What makes these templates stand out? Customizable: You should be able to swap colors, fonts and layouts to make it feel like yours. Mobile-Friendly: With mobile use at an all-time high, a website needs to look stunning on every screen size. Related readings: How to make a website mobile-friendly Best website builders for portfolio How to make a portfolio AI tools AI tools are transforming the way websites are built, making it easier than ever to create something polished and professional. According to Sharon, “All types of AI tools—whether it’s content recommendations, SEO insights or even complete website generation—allow users to focus on delivering their core message, while the technology handles the technical details.” Ever wondered, how does AI work in website design? These features act like your personal design assistant, offering layout suggestions or generating tailored content for your pages. For example, AI can recommend a color palette that complements your brand or even craft copy that fits seamlessly into your site. “AI tools aren’t just about saving time,” Sharon explains, “they’re about making professional-level website creation accessible to everyone.” Check out the best AI website builders to get your dream website up and running quickly. Effortless scalability What if your brand or project takes off faster than you expected? Scalability is essential in the easiest website builders, ensuring it grows with you. Whether it’s adding more pages or unlocking advanced features, the process should be as smooth as stepping into the next stage of your business. A user-friendly platform anticipates your needs and eliminates barriers, so you can focus on reaching new goals without missing a beat. Support for eCommerce Selling online? Creating an eCommerce website is in your reach with the easiest website builders. Look for tools that help you create product pages, organize discounts and connect secure payment systems. Sharon recommends, “The best eCommerce website builders offer the tools you need to focus on your products and customers rather than worrying about technical hurdles.” Learn more about eCommerce: Wix vs. Shopify Shopify alternatives Wix Studio vs. Shopify Ecommerce website optimization Built-in SEO, branding and marketing Search engine optimization (SEO) can feel intimidating, but the best website builders for SEO simplify it. From editing meta descriptions to customizing URL s, these features help your site rank higher in search results. Plus, integrated marketing strategies and tools make managing social campaigns and email marketing campaigns from one platform a no-brainer. “ Website SEO isn’t just about writing blog posts or adding keywords,” says Sharon. “It’s about combining content, accessibility and technical strength to create a foundation for success.” Many platforms also provide SEO features and branded tools like a blog maker and logo creator , giving you everything you need to establish a professional look. Learn more about SEO: What is SEO? Blog SEO SEO website design Free SEO tools Social media branding Security Nobody wants their site to crash or face cyber threats. The easiest website builders offer robust and free website hosting with top-notch uptime , so your website is always available. Website security features like SSL certificate providers and malware protection ensure your data and your visitors’ info stay safe. Learn more: Best website hosting providers What is web hosting? How to host a website Best website hosting Integrated analytics Easy-to-use website builders provide built-in analytics tools that allow you to track visitor behavior, page views and traffic sources. As the website owner, you can use this information to understand what’s working and where improvements might be needed. Domain name and management A domain name is fundamental for any website. User-friendly website builders often simplify this process by offering a domain name search tool to look for available names and a custom domain name generator to help you brainstorm creative ideas. They also handle the technical aspects of custom domain registration and management, often directly through the platform. Learn more: What is a domain name? How many domains are there? Pricing transparency The best website builders maintain clear, honest pricing structures with no hidden costs. Many offer a free website builder option or trial plans, allowing users to test the platform before committing. Their premium plans provide excellent value, offering robust features and advanced functionality to elevate your website. Easiest website builders Wix Wix Studio Strikingly Jimdo Duda 01. Wix Wix is o ne of the best website builders for small businesses , individual creators, freelancers and professionals like designers, videographers, beauticians and even plumbers. This versatile yet cheap website builder offers two straightforward approaches to creating your website, making it a solution that grows with you. Scalability is built-in, so whether you're just starting out or expanding your business, Wix has you cov ered. One way to create your site is by personalizing a website template using the intuitive drag-and-drop editor to match your unique style or aesthetic. Alternatively, you can opt for an AI site builder to do the heavy lifting. Simply answer a few questions, and it generates a fully customized website tailored to your needs. Wix also equips you with comprehensive website tools to help optimize your site for search engines. With Wix Analytics , you can track performance and gain data-driven insights to improve user engagement. Plus, it includes eCommerce functionality so you can easily scale your business by selling products directly from your website. On top of that, every Wix website benefits from enterprise-grade security, including SSL encryption, DDoS protection, PCI compliance for eCommerce sites, and 24/7 monitoring. Wix ensures you can focus on what you do best without worrying about the technical stuff. Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $17 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 02. Wix Studio While Wix is one of the best website builders for freelancers , creatives and small businesses, Wix Studio is designed for agencies and enterprises, including industries like travel and bookings, sports, law, consultancy and construction. It combines the simplicity of a drag-and-drop editor with advanced design flexibility for professionals. This popular website builder comes with a library of responsive templates to kick-start the website creation process. For time-sensitive projects, Wix Studio AI tools provide an even faster route. Meanwhile, Wix Studio SEO ensures your site is optimized by including SEO in every part of your workflow. And if you plan on selling products online, Wix Studio eCommerce offers everything you need to create a top web store. Additionally, Wix Studio makes it easy to track your website performance and learn about visitor behavior through its advanced analytics tools. If you’re looking to measure the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns, Wix Studio marketing integrations have you covered. This powerful website builder also prioritizes security. It offers enterprise-grade protections to safeguard your site and data, such as real-time threat detection, 24/7 monitoring, SSL certificates and anti-DDoS measures. Pricing: Paid plans start at $19 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. 03. Strikingly Strikingly is one of the best website builders for creatives and entrepreneurs. Its drag-and-drop editor allows you to create a website with no code and design experience. To get started, simply choose a customizable template from Strikingly's extensive collection and adjust the color palette and design elements to match your brand and style . For an even faster website-building process, use the platform’s AI website builder. The built-in online store features let you easily sell products, and the analytics give you valuable insights into your website performance and audience. Additionally, the platform offers a range of built-in website SEO features. In terms of website security, Strikingly offers free HTTPS for all websites, helping safeguard your site and potentially increasing visitors’ trust. Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $16 (billed annually). Other billing options are also available. 04. Jimdo Jimdo is one of the easiest personal website builders to use, thanks to its generative AI capabilities. Just create a free account, answer some questions and choose from the wide range of pre-made templates. Then, use the built-in design features to tailor the look and feel of your website. Jimdo’s website builder includes an automatic SEO feature that handles most of the technical optimization work to improve your site's search visibility. The platform also provides built-in analytics to track visitor data, and the basic eCommerce tools allow you to set up an online store, manage products and handle payments seamlessly. Additionally, all Jimdo-created websites use the HTTPS protocol. Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $11 per month (billed annually). Other billing options are also available. 05. Duda With Duda’s easy website builder, you can start creating your site by selecting a responsive template or taking advantage of the advanced AI assistant, which can generate a multi-page site in seconds. Optimizing your website for search engines is easy with Duda. The automated tools can generate your meta titles, meta descriptions and alt-text. Duda also helps you quickly start selling products on the web with features like payment gateway integration and AI-generated product descriptions. Like many top website builders, every Duda website is backed by enterprise-grade security. Additionally, Duda offers important analytics and insights, such as the number of visitors, their origin and which web page(s) they engage with most . Pricing: Free trial for 14 days. Paid plans start at $19 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month plans are also available. Editor’s note: all pricing and information are current as of 04/08/2025. Explore some of the best website builders by industry: Best website builders for service businesses Best membership website builders Best travel website builders Best sports website builders Best booking website builders Best website builders for consultants Best website builders for law firms Best construction website builders Best website builders for designers Best beauty website builders Best plumbing website builders Best website builders for videographers Best website builder for graphic designers Best website builders Canada Easiest website builders FAQ What is the easiest website builder to use? Several website builders make creating a site effortless, even for beginners. Wix stands out thanks to its drag-and-drop editor and AI tools that simplify the process. Wix Studio is perfect for those who want advanced design flexibility but still value an easy-to-use platform. Tools like Duda, Strikingly and Jimdo are also excellent choices, offering straightforward editors and templates designed for simplicity. Lea rn more: Squarespace alternatives WordPress alternatives Shopify alternatives Can a beginner build a website? Absolutely. Building a website is no longer a task just for professionals. Platforms like Wix, Wix Studio and Strikingly are specifically built for beginners. They offer guided setup processes, templates you can customize and user-friendly tools that eliminate guesswork. Even if you've never built a site before, you'll find these tools intuitive and supportive. What website should I make as a beginner? Start with something simple that aligns with your goals. If you're a creative or small business owner, consider creating a portfolio or simple business website with Wix or Jimdo. Bloggers might enjoy the ease of Strikingly, while Duda’s functionality works well for showcasing various projects. Whatever you decide, focus on building a site that reflects your style and purpose. Learn more: Blogging statistics How to start a blog What is the fastest and easiest way to make a website? If speed is what you’re looking for, tools like Wix’s AI site generator or Strikingly's one-page designs are unbeatable. Simply answer a few questions, and these platforms can generate a website in minutes. Customizing templates with drag-and-drop editors, available on options like Wix Studio and Duda, is another quick way to set up a professional-looking site. What are some cheap and easy to use website builders? For affordability and ease of use, the top picks are Wix, Strikingly and Jimdo. Wix offers competitive pricing with a variety of plans to meet your needs. Jimdo is known for its budget-friendly approach and Strikingly shines as an affordable option for simple sites. If you’re after more advanced features with seamless usability, Duda and Wix Studio offer great solutions without breaking the bank. Who has the easiest to use website templates? Wix offers some of the the easiest website templates to use, thanks to its intuitive drag-and-drop editor, pre-designed blocks and style flexibility. You can customize your Wix template quickly without coding, while built-in tools help with branding and layout.
- 5 best website builders in 2026
Build your website in minutes, try Wix for free today → Making a website for your business has never been easier, thanks to the wide range of website builders available. AI website builders even shorten the setup process by picking layouts and color schemes and writing content based on your business type. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the best website builders so you can find the perfect fit and get your site up and running in no time. When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. TL;DR: Best website builders in 2026 Creating a professional website is more accessible than ever. In this guide, we break down the top website builders to help you choose the right one for your goals, whether you're launching a portfolio, online store or business site. We looked at everything from design flexibility to built-in marketing tools, so you can find a platform that not only looks good but also works hard behind the scenes. No tech background? No problem—each option is built to help you grow online with confidence. Website builder Why it stands out Best for Pricing Wix Easy drag-and-drop builder with lots of design freedom plus built-in SEO and marketing tools to help you grow Small businesses and freelancers Free plan; paid from $17/month Wix Studio Advanced design and AI tools made for agencies and larger businesses with strong security and marketing features Agencies and enterprises Plans from $19/month Squarespace Pre-made templates and simple setup with web analytic tools and AI features Creatives Plans from $16/month Webnode Mobile-friendly simple builder with good SEO and marketing support Freelancers Free plan; paid from $4.50/month Shopify An eCommerce platform with marketing SEO and security Product sellers Plans from $29/month Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead at Wix, shares this insight about choosing the best website builder: "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." Editor's note: The information presented in this table is true as of December 30th, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise. Best website builders Wix Wix Studio Squarespace Webnode Shopify 01. Wix Wix is one of the best website builders for small businesses and individuals who want a professional and customizable website. With its intuitive drag-and-drop editor , you can effortlessly add and arrange buttons, text, visuals and even entire sections. Simply choose a design from the massive library of website templates and customize it to match your style. If you're short on time or just prefer a hassle-free approach, you can generate a personalized site in minutes using one of the best AI website builders available. Beyond design, Wix offers robust SEO features that help you optimize your site for search engines. Plus, its marketing strategies make it easy to engage your audience and grow your brand. For those looking to create a free online store , Wix offers an eCommerce platform that lets you build, run and scale your business with ease. Other built-in features include: Enterprise-grade website security to safeguard your site from cyber threats. Wix Analytics to gain actionable insights about your website. Blog maker to help you learn how to start a blog and connect with your audience. Pricing: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $17 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month payment options are also available. Case study: Keta Tov—a Wix website built for dog training Roni Sagi, a certified dog trainer and America's Got Talent runner-up, used Wix's website builder to create Keta Tov , a website dedicated to helping dog owners build positive relationships with their pets. With Wix’s user-friendly design tools, she was able to craft a visually engaging and informative site that reflects her brand’s values. What makes Roni's website stand out? She uses Wix’s multimedia features to highlight training videos, client testimonials and high-quality images. Thanks to Wix being one of the best website builders for SEO , Keta Tov is easier for pet owners to find. As Roni shared in her Wix blog interview , "Never in my wildest dreams did I think that dancing with dogs could be my actual career. Now, anyone, anywhere can learn to dance with his dog through my online courses." Learn more: Free website builders Personal website builders 02. Wix Studio Wix Studio takes everything great about Wix and makes it better. That’s why it’s a perfect choice for agencies and enterprises. With its responsive templates and an editor that automatically optimizes your designs for every screen, the platform gives you complete creative freedom. You can also speed up your workflows using Wix Studio AI . In addition, Wix Studio SEO is baked into every part of your process to optimize your website for search engines, while Wix Studio marketing integrations blend in social media and email marketing tools to make it easy to grow your audience. If you're looking to build a custom online store, Wix Studio eCommerce has you covered with native solutions incorporated at every touchpoint. Like Wix, you also get enterprise-grade security with real-time threat detection and prevention. Plus, you can connect to tracking and analytics tools, like Google Analytics, to monitor key metrics such as clicks, page views, leads and purchases. Want to engage your audience even more? Create a blog to share ideas, updates and insights. Pricing: Plans start at $19 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month payment options are also available. "Web design in 2026 is all about breaking the rules while staying true to a brand’s essence. Hyperreality and digital sustainability are setting the stage for designs that feel both immersive and meaningful. Trends like elevated brutalism and exaggerated hierarchy add boldness, while heritage revivalism and retrofuture femme bring in just the right amount of nostalgia. It’s not about following trends blindly—it’s about using them to create designs that stick with people and make brands unforgettable." - Chantalle Alberstadt, founder of BoredBrands Studio Learn more: Best website builders for designers Best website builders for graphic designers 03. Squarespace Squarespace is one of the best website builders for creatives . It offers an intuitive platform to bring your ideas to life. Getting started is easy. Simply choose a pre-made template and customize it using the drag-and-drop tools. If you prefer an even faster approach, Squarespace Blueprint AI can generate a personalized website for you. Once your site is live, you can promote it effectively with built-in SEO tools for better search engine visibility. Plus, seamless integrations with social accounts and email marketing make it easy to grow your audience. And if you need to sell items online, Squarespace lets you create an eCommerce store on the same platform. That way, you can sell products without needing third-party apps. Besides website building, the platform offers other key features like: Web analytic tools to track performance and gain valuable insights. Website security to safeguard your data from cyber threats. Blogging tools to help you connect with your audience and share your expertis e. Pricing: Free 14-day trial. Plans start at $16 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month payment options are also available. Learn more: Website builders for service businesses Membership website builders Construction website builders Best website builders for consultants Plumbing website builders 04. Webnode Webnode is one of the best website builders for freelancers , as it allows you to create a site using your phone or tablet. You can choose a customizable template from the beautiful design options and edit it using the simple website builder. Alternatively, let AI generate a custom website tailored to your needs. Beyond website creation, Webnode helps you build an online store effortlessly. You can start from scratch using the available templates or add the eCommerce functionality to your existing site. For those who want to share their expertise, the builder makes it easy to add multiple web pages to your blog. Plus, built-in website statistics provide insights into site traffic so you can understand your audience better. Webnode includes detailed SEO features that optimize your content for search engines. Moreover, integrations with social media platforms and marketing tools help you generate leads and grow your customer base. Security is also a top priority. The platform provides SSL certificates and HTTPS for safe browsing while enhancing the overall website performance . Pricing: Free plan available. Premium plans start at $4.50 per month (billed annually). Learn more: Best one-page website builders Best restaurant website builders Best website builders for photographers Best real estate website builders Best website builders for writers 05. Shopify Shopify is one of the best platforms for people who want to sell products online. With its intuitive websit e editor, you can create an eCommerce for dropshipping , print on demand and more eCommerce niches. You can also customize free design themes, add unique products and integrate various apps to make your store unique. Apart from store creation, Shopify equips you with a suite of tools for marketing and SEO to help you attract more customers and build profitable relationships. You also get real-time insights about your website so you can make strategic decisions and a built-in blogging engine to help you build a loyal audience. For added convenience, Shopify Magic provides a suite of AI content generation tools to streamline the design process. Shopify also takes security issues seriously. It provides features like two-step authentication and passkeys to make it difficult for hackers to access your account. Pricing: Plans start at $29 per month (billed annually). Month-to-month payment options are also available. “In eCommerce websites, the homepage generally has the highest authority. With a flat architecture, you can distribute this authority from your homepage to more secondary pages. This helps other pages improve their ranking in search results, increasing the overall visibility of your website.” - Ricardo Mendoza Castro, international marketing lead at Semrush Learn more: Best hotel website builders Best resume website builders Best website builders for teachers Best website builders for musicians Best website builders for accountants Editor's note: The information presented in this article is true as of December 30th, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise. What to look for in the best website builders The best website creators should help you build any type of website . Some of the standard features to look for include: Ease of use Look for a platform with a user-friendly website builder and hundreds of customizable templates to build your site without starting from scratch. A clean interface is also important to help you access the tools, settings and design elements you need without a hassle. Responsive design With nearly 96% of adults browsing the internet on their phones, your site needs to look and function well on a small screen as it does on a desktop. A good website builder should automatically adjust your layout, images and text based on the screen size to give mobile users an exceptional user experience. Learn more: Booking website builders Travel website builders Best website builders in Canada Scalability and reliability You may learn how to develop a website that's simple, but over time, you might need more advanced features like an online store or advanced analytics. The best platforms offer scalability options to help you add new functionalities as your business grows. Equally important is site reliability . As traffic increases, your website should be able to handle more visitors without slowing down or crashing. Best website builders FAQ What is the best website builder? Wix is a versatile website builder that balances ease of use with powerful customization options. It lets you create a professional site quickly and easily, whether it’s a portfolio, business site or online store. With flexible templates and design tools, it’s a platform that works well for a wide range of users. What are the best free website builders? Wix’s free plan makes it easy to get started without any upfront costs. You can build a professional-looking website using intuitive design tools and ready-to-use templates. It’s a great way to launch your site and explore features before upgrading to a paid plan. Is Wix completely free? Yes, you can use Wix for free with a Wix subdomain (yourwebsite.wixsite.com). The free plan gives access to core design features, while upgrading provides a custom domain and more advanced tools for added flexibility. Is it worth paying someone to build a website? With Wix, hiring a professional isn’t necessary. Its drag-and-drop editor, customizable templates and AI-powered tools make it easy for anyone to create a polished, professional website. Built-in SEO and marketing features also let you manage your site independently.











