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Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix → Learning how to create a niche website means narrowing your focus, validating demand and building a site that’s optimized for search, conversions and sustainable growth from day one.  This article shows you how to identify a profitable market, choose the right website builder  and learn how to make a website  that serves a unique community.  A well-designed niche site resonates with a dedicated audience, delivers value that keeps visitors coming back and can generate revenue through targeted strategies and monetization opportunities. Let’s get started. Start building with Wix's AI website builder . 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. TL;DR: how to create a niche website A successful niche website solves specific problems for a clearly defined audience and attracts visitors who are likely to engage.  To bring it to life, use a flexible website builder that lets you launch and customize your site without technical headaches. From there, create in-depth guides, tutorials and product reviews optimized for SEO so the right people can find you. Share your content across social media and niche communities to steadily grow your traffic, then monetize naturally with affiliate marketing, digital products or services that fit your audience’s needs. Check out the table below to see the key features that make a niche website stand out. Feature Why it matters Clear target audience Ensures content and products resonate and convert Focused niche Specificity reduces competition and builds loyal followers High-quality content Engages readers, builds authority and encourages return visits SEO optimization Helps your site rank and attract the right traffic Relevant monetization Generates revenue in ways that enhance user experience How to create a niche website in 8 steps Building a site for a specific market is straightforward when you break it down into manageable actions. Follow these steps to go from an initial idea to a fully functioning platform. Identify your niche market Choose a professional website builder Select a domain name Pick a template and customize Create valuable content Optimize for SEO Promote your site Monetize your niche website 01. Identify your niche market The first step is narrowing down exactly who you want to serve. A common mistake is trying to appeal to everyone. Instead, look for the intersection of what you’re passionate about, what you’re knowledgeable in and what people are actively searching for. Research is vital here. Look at potential competitors and see where there might be gaps in the market. Maybe there's a lot of content about "gardening," but not enough about niche products  for "urban balcony gardening for beginners." That specificity is where you find your audience. From there, you can explore ways to make money from a website  tailored to their needs. 02. Choose a professional website builder You need a platform that simplifies the technical side so you can focus on content, web design  and website structure . Wix offers a fast and intuitive website builder to bring your vision to life in minutes. This allows you to get the structure of your site up and running without getting bogged down in complex setups. Speed is often a barrier for new creators. Wix speeds up website building with AI that generates full pages for you, meaning you can have a working draft of your niche site incredibly fast. This helps you move from the planning phase to the editing phase almost instantly. Learn more about Wix: What is Wix? Is Wix free? Expert tip from Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix “Choosing the right website builder isn’t just about comparing specs—it’s about understanding how it actually feels to use. We tested each platform the way a real user would: building pages, booking appointments, customizing templates and navigating setup tools. It’s the only way to truly see which builders deliver value beyond the sales pitch.” 03. Select a domain name Your domain name  is your address on the web. It needs to be memorable, easy to spell and relevant to your topic. Try to include words that hint at what your site is about. If your niche is "vegan baking," having those words in the URL helps visitors understand your purpose before they even click. Avoid using hyphens or numbers if possible, as these can be confusing when spoken aloud. Stick to .com if it is available, as it remains the most recognized extension, but don't forget about .com alternatives  if you need more options. If your first choice is taken, get creative with synonyms but keep it clear. Learn more about what is a .com domain . Once you're happy with your domain name, you'll also need somewhere to host your website. Hosting is what keeps your site online and makes sure visitors can access it anytime. With Wix, web hosting  is included right from the start so you don’t have to worry about technical setup or surprise costs down the line. This makes getting your site live easy, quick and stress-free. 04. Pick a template and customize Visitors form an opinion about your site within seconds of landing on it. Wix provides you with industry-specific website templates  for better branding. These pre-designed layouts give you a professional foundation that you can tweak to match your style. Customize the colors and fonts to align with the vibe of your niche. If you are writing about meditation, soft colors and clean lines work best. If it is about extreme sports, bold colors and dynamic layouts are more appropriate. Ensure the navigation is simple so users can find what they need without frustration. Explore niche website templates: Auto detailing website templates Chiropractor website templates Trucking website templates 05. Create valuable content Content is the engine of a niche website. You need to produce articles, videos or guides that solve specific problems for your audience. Start with pillar content, which consists of comprehensive guides that cover the main topics of your niche in depth and reflect the types of websites  you create. Consistency is just as important as quality, which means setting a schedule for publishing new material so your site stays fresh and keeps visitors coming back. Remember to write for your reader first, answering their questions and addressing their pain points directly. As you plan your content, aim for a mix of educational posts and action-driven pieces that support buying decisions. This balanced approach helps build trust while creating opportunities to monetize as your site grows. 06. Optimize for SEO Search engine optimization ( SEO ) helps your site get found by people looking for your specific topic. Start by researching the specific terms and phrases your audience uses, focusing on keywords with clear intent and achievable competition levels. Incorporate these naturally into your headlines, article text and image descriptions. Don't forget the technical side. Ensure your site loads quickly and looks good on mobile devices. Search engines favor sites that provide a good user experience. Organizing your content with clear headings and logical structures also helps search bots understand what your pages are about. 07. Promote your site Once your site is live, you need to drive traffic to it. To make sure you’re fully prepared, run through a website launch checklist  before going public, this helps catch any last-minute issues and ensures a smooth rollout. Then, share your content on social media platforms where your audience hangs out. If your niche is visual, like interior design, Pinterest and Instagram are powerful tools. For professional topics, LinkedIn might be better. Engage with other communities in your niche. Comment on relevant blogs or participate in forums. Building relationships with other creators can lead to guest posting opportunities, which exposes your brand to a wider audience. 08. Monetize your niche website Once you’ve built traffic and trust, it’s time to turn your niche website into a source of income. Start by choosing monetization methods that align with your audience’s needs, such as affiliate marketing , digital products , display ads or offering services. The key is relevance. When your monetization strategy naturally fits your content, it enhances the user experience rather than disrupting it. Over time, you can test and refine what works best to create sustainable, long-term revenue. Explore more website ideas: How to create a real estate website How to create a memorial website How to make a consulting website How to make a construction website How to make a church website How to create a niche website FAQ How much does it cost to start a niche website? The cost varies depending on the tools you choose. You can start with a very low budget by doing the work yourself and paying only for hosting and a domain name. As your site grows, you might invest in premium themes, advanced plugins or paid marketing. Learn more: How much does a website cost ? How much does a business website cost ? How much does Wix harmony cost Can I make money from a niche website? Yes, many creators monetize their sites effectively. Common methods include affiliate marketing, where you earn a commission for recommending products or display advertising. You can also sell your own digital products, like ebooks or courses, once you have established trust. How long does it take to see results? Building traffic and authority takes time. You might start seeing organic traffic from search engines within three to six months if you are consistent. However, significant growth usually happens after the first year of steady content creation and promotion. What niche is most profitable? Some of the most profitable niches are evergreen and meet ongoing needs or solve big problems for specific groups of people. Examples include personal finance, health and wellness, beauty and skincare, technology and online education. These niches succeed because people are always looking for advice, solutions and new products in these areas. If you choose a niche that offers clear value and matches your interests, you’ll be more likely to build a loyal audience and create consistent revenue streams.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Choosing the right domain name sets the tone for your website. It’s your web address, your first impression and a key part of your brand. A good domain should be easy to remember, reflect your business and help people find you online. To make it simple, we’ve gathered tips from experts across industries on how they picked domains that work for their brands and grow with their business. 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: How to choose a domain name This guide breaks down how to choose a domain name that’s clear, memorable and aligned with your business goals. You’ll learn what makes a name effective, which mistakes to avoid and how extensions like .com, .org or .ai can shape how your audience perceives you. The article also includes expert-backed tips to help you make a confident choice, whether you’re launching a new brand or rethinking an old one. Choosing a domain name starts with clarity and relevance. Focus on something short, easy to type and pronounce and aligned with your brand. Use keywords, avoid numbers or dashes and pick an extension that suits your site. Check availability, potential trademark conflicts and competitor domains, and make sure it works with your social handles for a consistent presence. Key takeaways: Keep it short and memorable : Choose a name that’s easy to type, say and remember. Short names strengthen brand recognition and help your business stick in people’s minds. Use tools and do your research : Start with a domain name generator to explore ideas, check availability and avoid trademark conflicts. Research helps you pick a name that’s safe, effective and aligned with your brand. Pick the right extension and keywords : Choose a domain extension that fits your audience and industry, like .com, .ai or .org. Including relevant keywords can improve SEO and help visitors immediately understand what your business offers. How to choose a domain name: 15 tips Use a domain name generator Keep it short and memorable Make it easy to type and pronounce Avoid numbers and dashes (usually) Consider clarity and accessibility Target your area Stay on brand Include keywords Be descriptive Pick the right domain extension Do your research Check for trademark issues Think long term Act fast Match your domain with social handles 01. Use a domain name generator   In order to make the brainstorming process much easier and productive, start your journey towards picking a domain name for your site with a list of options, rather than a blank page. By using one of the best domain name generators , you’ll be able to get a broad range of ideas based on keywords or phrases related to your brand.   Try Wix's domain name generator  today. 02. Keep it short and memorable   Domain names can be up to 63 characters, but long names are hard to type and remember. Aim for a short, memorable name, ideally three to 12 characters and no more than two to three words. If your name is longer, try trimming or simplifying it. As Sanks Nair, COO of Recall  shares: “Short and sweet was essential. [For Recall] the name needed to be easy to say, two syllables max, and roll off the tongue effortlessly. A short, memorable name strengthens brand recall and spreads faster through word of mouth.” Another hot tip from Sanks is to try out your domain name as a verb. She says, “From experience, a name that can turn into a verb creates a stronger brand. I was an early employee at Uber, originally 'UberCab.' Back then, no one would say, 'I UberCabbed here,' but today, 'I Ubered here' is natural. We wanted a name that could similarly evolve into common usage, like 'I'll recall that.'" 03. Make it easy to type and pronounce You don’t want potential visitors lingering over details such as spelling before hitting your page. For that reason, look for a domain name that will easily roll off the tongue - and fingers. It’s best to avoid frequently misspelled words, or anything that requires a double take before pronouncing. Run your chosen domain name by a few friends and see if they can get it right on their first attempt. If they struggle a little, go for a different name. As Ben Donovan, founder of Brand Builder University  notes, when he was selecting a domain name for his business, he focused on it being four things: meaningful, memorable, short and unique. With this in mind, Ben says: “A domain that's easy to remember sticks in people's minds and makes it simple for them to return or recommend it. Shorter domains are especially helpful, precisely because they're easier to type and share.” In case you’re planning on using your personal name as the domain, but your last name isn’t intuitive in its spelling, use a combination of your first and middle names instead. Alternatively, combine your first name with your specialty—such as “bakingwithsam.” Another good practice is to choose a domain name that is predictable, meaning your audience won’t have to second guess how to write it properly. With this in mind, refrain from shorthand and spell out your words. For example, go for “you” instead of “u” and be wary of words that can be spelled numerous ways (is it “ok” or “okay?”).   Already have an idea? Check the availability with a  domain name search  tool.   04. Avoid numbers and dashes (usually)   Unlike a password, your domain name shouldn’t be a string of characters that makes sense solely to you. Therefore, refrain from using special characters such as hyphens and numbers. So “gr8cakes-4all,” for example, would be an especially bad domain name. Numbers and hyphens are too often confusing and are harder to remember and type. Numbers leave people wondering whether to go for the numeral digit or to spell them out (is it a 10 or a ten?). Hyphens, on the other hand, are easy to overlook or misplace when typing in the web address and are not immediately within reach on most mobile keyboards. However, there may be specific use cases or situations where hyphens are relevant.  As Charles Hoffman, the owner of Guardian Pressure Washing  experienced, his first domain name choice, "guardianpressurewashing.com," was taken, so he used an alternative domain. His first option was to use a different Top-Level Domain (TLD) like ".org," ".net" or ".site." For example, he says he could have chosen "guardianpressurewashing.site."  According to Charles: “While the unprofessional stigma around using a TLD other than .com has largely fallen off over the years, I decided there was a benefit in taking a different approach. The URL that I went with was 'guardian-pressure-washing.com,' which I felt was easier to read because of the dashes. My work truck is wrapped with various branding, including my domain name. At a glance, people can easily discern the text in the URL.” Read also: 23 business owners share their worst domain naming mistakes Answering 12 web domain-related questions you’re probably too shy to ask The worst domain name advice you should definitely avoid   05. Consider clarity and accessibility When choosing a domain name, prioritize accessibility by keeping it simple, easy to read and free of ambiguous characters or confusing structures. This ensures it’s memorable, screen-reader-friendly and inclusive for a diverse audience while enhancing usability and SEO performance. Learn more about the parts of a domain name  to help you with this decision. When it came to selecting a domain for Carepatron , CEO Jamie Frew says the most important factors were clarity, accessibility and alignment with our mission.  “We wanted a name that clearly conveyed our focus on healthcare while being memorable and easy for users worldwide to understand. 'Care' captures our commitment to healthcare and well-being, while 'patron' reflects support and partnership, a core part of our mission to empower both healthcare practitioners and patients.” Carepatron also prioritized simplicity and ease of recall, as a straightforward domain name makes it easier for users to find and remember us. Jamie says that “after brainstorming and testing various options, Carepatron stood out because it encapsulated our values and the experience we aim to create. It was a name that felt natural, approachable and mission-driven, which is exactly the qualities we wanted our brand to convey.” 06. Target your area If your business serves a specific area, include your location in your domain. It helps local customers find you and can improve local search rankings—like SweetTreatsMiami.com for a bakery in Miami. You can also use a location-specific domain extension, such as .co.uk or other country code domains (ccTLDs). In fact, total ccTLD registrations reached 144.8 million by the end of the third quarter of 2025, showing how widely businesses use these extensions to signal local relevance. Keep future growth in mind if you plan to expand globally. 07. Stay on brand with your name   A great branding strategy is made up of many different elements that come together in telling one cohesive story. As Wix's head of brand maker, Yaya Aaronsohn, says: "At its core, branding hinges on trust. Think of it as a relationship between two individuals: the customer and the brand. Within this relationship, authenticity plays a critical role. It builds trust and creates emotional bonds. It fosters consistency, engagement and reduces reputation risks." Align your domain with your website, social media handles and overall brand voice to keep your online presence consistent. Your domain can match your business name, a variation or include a relevant keyword. If you’re still naming your business, brainstorm catchy options using a dictionary, thesaurus or business name generator . Make sure the final choice is brandable, unique and easy to remember, like “bakingwithsam.com” instead of “samteachesbaking.com.” Learn more: Why do I need a domain name? Most expensive domain names   Domain name trends Why paying for a premium domain is worth it, according to 17 business owners Can I buy a domain name permanently?   08. Include keywords for SEO   Including a relevant keyword in your domain can help both visitors and search engines understand your website, boosting your SEO and click-through rates. Use keywords naturally and in moderation, since overloading your domain can feel spammy. For example, a poke restaurant website  could use “alohapokeshop.com,” while a photography portfolio  might choose “jimsmithphotography.com” or “nycweddingphotos.com.” Domains that contain a relevant keyword have a slight but measurable correlation with higher click-through rates from search results .  As Tom Smith, marketing team member at University Frames, Inc.  found, SEO and discoverability were paramount when they chose their business domain name. Tom notes: “We considered keywords frequently searched by our target audience. By incorporating 'university' and 'frames,' we ensured our domain naturally aligned with popular search terms, boosting visibility." One of the best  SEO tips  to keep in mind is to consider the keywords your target customers or users search for to find a similar product or service, and consider using that within your domain name. Another option is to research what competitors use and if it's relevant to your business.     09. Be descriptive While this tip may not be the case for every business or brand, it certainly can make an impact depending on your target audience and offering. For Featured.com  this was a particularly important consideration for their brand.  As CEO Brett Farmiloe says, “Pulling the trigger on acquiring Featured.com wasn't an easy decision. It was pricey, especially for a young startup like ours.”  “What put me over the edge on the acquisition was the descriptiveness of the domain. We help people get featured in the media. Featured.com is the perfect, most descriptive word that accurately captures our customer value proposition. The simplicity is priceless and has dramatically impacted the growth of our business.” 10. Pick the right domain extension   A domain extension, also known as TLD  (top-level domain), is the suffix at the end of your domain name. This rightmost segment of your site’s address serves to identify some of its key elements, such as its purpose, location or owner.   The most common extensions are .com, .org and .net , which together remain the backbone of the internet. As of September 30, 2025, .com and .net alone accounted for 171.9 million domain registrations. This shows how trusted these extensions are for businesses and individuals alike. There are also many types of domains  that can serve different needs and offer alternatives in case your first domain name choice is already taken. When exploring less common TLDs, it’s important to research their reputation, as some newer extensions may have higher rates of abuse. Choosing a trustworthy TLD ensures your website remains credible and aligns with your brand. (Check out the best .com alternatives , according to 33 business owners.) Jeffrey Gabriel, the CEO of Saw.com  Incorporated , says, “Try to find a domain that is easy to spell and remember, in a domain extension your audience is comfortable with, and matches the brand of the business.” “If a company is B2B with a specific focus on selling to very tech-savvy individuals using a .AI or a .IO domain extension, it might make perfect sense, but if it focuses on consumers in the English market, then a co.uk might be the best option. Companies looking to have a presence in many different markets should always lean toward a short, easy-to-spell and memorable.COM domain that is easy to spell and remember in many languages.” Let’s take a look at what some of these domain extensions  are used for: .com : When it comes to what .com is , this widespread domain extension is almost synonymous with the web. Standing for “commercial,” it's the most trusted and well-known TLD, and when in doubt, it’s usually the best option. .com domains are generally considered more credible, as users tend to trust them more than less common extensions.  The “.com” extension is associated with for-profit businesses. For example: wix.com. Other business-related TLDs are .biz, .tech, .digital or .company. .net :  Referring to networks and what .net is , it's the second most common extension and is generally used by service providers such as website hosting , databases and collaboration tools. .org : Short for “organization,” this domain extension is most often used for non-profit and charitable organizations. For example: wikipedia.org. .info:  This extension is an abbreviation for “information” and is primarily reserved for informative or educational sites. .me : An extension that’s highly fitting for an online resume, blog, portfolio website  or personal brand. You can also consider .blog for a blog website specifically or .tv  for entertainment related sites. Alternatively, both .site  and .website are considered wide-ranging TLD. Other options to consider include: .email, .fun, .world, .solutions, .top, .ninja, .art, .pictures, .directory, .studio, .cloud, .live, .party  .co :  Originally the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Colombia, .co has evolved to become a popular choice on the global stage. Often associated with “company,” it’s widely used by startups and entrepreneurs looking for a short, memorable, and innovative domain extension. .ai : Originally the country-code domain for Anguilla, .ai domain has taken on a new life as a go-to for artificial intelligence companies, tech startups and digital products. Its rise reflects the booming AI sector—it now sees over 20,000 new registrations   monthly, a trend likely to accelerate as AI adoption grows. While still technically a ccTLD, .ai is widely treated as a generic extension in practice and signals forward-thinking innovation to users and investors alike. ccTLD:   Country code top-level domains  are domain extensions that show off your physical whereabouts and might give your local SEO a boost.   For example, “.de” for Germany, “.fr” for France, ".nl" for the Netherlands, ".mx" for Mexico, ".br" for Brazil, ".be" for Belgium, “ . co.uk” for the United Kingdom   are all ccTLDs that signal local relevance to search engines.   Learn more: New top-level domains  and most popular domain extensions   11. Do your research   Before buying a domain, make sure it doesn’t infringe on trademarks or copyright and isn’t already used by another brand. Check availability through domain registration sites. The domain name registration system, for example, maintains a database of all registered domain names and their IP addresses. All of this information is freely open to the public. It’s also smart to investigate domain history. If you’re buying a pre-owned domain, tools like the Wayback Machine or WHOIS history can show how the domain was previously used. This helps you avoid potential SEO penalties or reputational issues from past misuse. Learn more: Domain lifecycle How to find the owner of a domain 12. Check for trademark issues Before choosing your domain name, take a moment to check for trademark issues. This simple step can save you from legal complications down the road, like disputes, rebranding or even losing your domain. Start by searching for existing trademarks that might overlap with your chosen name. Use free tools like the USPTO trademark search database or resources available in your country. If your business operates internationally, the WIPO Global Brand Database is a helpful option for broader searches. Keep in mind that while many domain registrars check domain availability, they don’t screen for trademark conflicts. For added peace of mind, consider consulting a trademark attorney or legal professional—especially if your domain name is crucial to your brand. Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain  before someone else does.   13. Think long term with your domain name If you plan to grow your brand, start thinking ahead. Consider securing a few variants of your domain—different extensions like “.com” and “.net,” or slight name variations—to protect your brand and keep your options flexible. You can even connect multiple domains to the same website  to maintain consistent branding while leaving room to expand. If your ideal domain is taken, look into premium or pre-owned domains. They often come with built-in authority, SEO value or a stronger brand presence, giving your business a head start. Choose a domain that won’t limit future growth. For example, a beauty parlor offering nail services today might later expand into hair or spa treatments, so pick a name broad enough to cover future offerings. A flexible domain also makes it easier to create email addresses that grow with your business. Remember, personal sites and business websites have different needs. Personal domains can be creative and interest-driven, while business domains should be professional and consider competitors. If you need ideas, a website name generator  can help you brainstorm names that stand out. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “Changing domains down the road can be costly and confusing, so it pays to choose thoughtfully from the start. A well-chosen name grows with you, making every step of your brand journey feel consistent.” Read also: Tips for future-proofing your domain  or 6 signs that it's time to change your domain 14. Act fast when securing your name   Once you have made up your mind, you should learn how to register your domain name  as soon as possible in order to ensure no one beats you to it. To do this, simply find an accredited domain registrar that will deal with the ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) on your behalf (looking through a list of the best domain registrars  can help you with this process). They’ll protect your domain name and ensure that it remains yours and only yours for the entire duration of your purchase.   If you’re curious as to  how much a domain name costs  and if you can get a free domain , note that prices vary based on different factors like the domain extension and the terms you select (such as securing a domain for a longer period of time). However, there are many website hosting  platforms that include the first year of domain registration for free.   By combining both a website host and a domain registration, these plans allow for an all-in-one business solution, where you can seamlessly build your website, purchase your domain, and enjoy professional online tools, all under one website infrastructure  roof. Learn more: How to create a business email Email name ideas   Can you buy a domain name forever? 15. Match your domain with social handles Your domain name is only one part of your online identity. To build a consistent brand, make sure the same (or very similar) name is available (you can learn more about how to check if a domain name is available with our guide) across major social platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn. This way, customers can easily find and recognize you no matter where they interact with your brand. Claim a premium domain to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one. Before you commit to a domain, do a quick search to confirm that matching handles are free. If they’re already taken, consider slight variations that still feel on-brand and easy to remember. The goal is to keep your name uniform, simple and unmistakably yours across every channel. Tips for picking your domain name Domain name tip Why it works Use a domain name generator Kickstart ideas and explore available options quickly Keep it short and memorable Helps with brand recall and easier typing Make it easy to type and pronounce Minimizes confusion and user error Avoid numbers and dashes These often complicate clarity and credibility Consider clarity and accessibility Choose names that are inclusive and easy to understand Target your area Localize your name if you serve a specific region Stay on brand Align with your tone, values and visual identity Include keywords Improves SEO and shows what your business is about Be descriptive Helps users immediately understand what you offer Pick the right domain extension Choose one that suits your industry, like .com, .store or .ai Do your research Check for availability across platforms and domains Check for trademark issues Avoid legal trouble by verifying name ownership Think long term Pick a name that can grow with your business Act fast Good names go quickly—secure yours once you find the right fit How to choose a domain name for a blog For a blog, the domain name is part of your storytelling—it sets expectations for your content and shapes how readers perceive your authority. Instead of just picking a catchy name, think about how it communicates your niche, perspective and style. For example, a blog on productivity could lean into specificity: “TwoHourWorkWeek” signals a practical, results-driven approach while “FlowStateJournal” implies a reflective, process-focused angle. The subtle difference guides who clicks and who sticks. SEO-friendly blog domains Another practical angle is SEO and long-term traffic strategy. A blog domain doesn’t need to be keyword-stuffed but weaving in a core topic can improve discoverability and brand recall. For instance, “PlantParentLife” instantly signals a houseplant-focused blog while being unique enough to rank well. Using a made-up or compound word like this can also prevent clashes with existing brands while giving you a flexible identity that grows with your blog. Blog domain name that scales Consider future monetization and content expansion. If you want to launch digital products, courses or a newsletter, avoid a name tied too tightly to one post type or style. A name like “DigitalNomadDiary” works if you plan to cover travel, work and lifestyle content, while “BackpackingTipsNow” locks you into one format. Testing domain ideas with potential readers—through polls or small focus groups—can reveal whether the name resonates and feels trustworthy, which is often more valuable than cleverness or trendiness. When choosing a domain name for your blog , focus on clarity and memorability. Keep it short, easy to spell and reflective of your niche so readers know what your blog is about. Pick a name that's flexible enough to cover future topics or expansions like adding new series, products or newsletters. Make sure it aligns with your social handles and consider testing ideas with your audience. What to avoid when choosing a domain name Picking the right domain name sets the tone for your website, so it’s just as important to know what to avoid. Trademarks and legal issues:  Check that your name doesn’t step on any existing trademarks. It’s easier to avoid legal headaches from the start. Complicated or unconventional spelling:  Weird spellings or slang can make your domain tricky to remember or share. Keep it simple. Double letters:  Extra letters might trip people up when they’re typing your domain. Unintentional word merging:  Watch out for accidental phrases that could confuse visitors. For example, “bestgiftshop” might read as “best gifts hop.” Numbers and hyphens:  These can make your domain harder to type and remember. People often forget where to put them. Overly long names:  Shorter is sweeter. Easier to remember, share and fit on business cards or marketing materials. Too generic:  Names that are too general can get lost among competitors. Choose something memorable that reflects what you do. According to Lori Appleman, the Co-Founder of Redline Minds: "After 25 years working with online stores, I've seen countless businesses lose money because they picked domains that were too long or complex. The #1 rule I give clients is: if you can't say it clearly over the phone without spelling it out, pick something else. Think about your customer's shopping journey. When someone's rushing to find your site after seeing your product at a trade show, they need to type it quickly and accurately." Why is choosing the right domain name so important? But fully understanding what a domain name is , and what a subdomain is , you can understand just how much impact it has when planning how to make your website . Here's why choosing the right domain name is so important.   Be perceived as a professional: Acting as your brand’s address online, a well thought out and customized URL will contribute to your site’s professionalism and authoritativeness, making your company appear more professional from a first look. Make your website easy to find: By picking a good domain name for your website, you can make it more memorable and help potential visitors find it with ease. A domain that represents your business while being easy to remember means more eyes on your site. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “A good domain name does more than just get you online, it makes your brand memorable and credible. When people see a clean, professional domain, they’re more likely to click and more likely to come back.” How do you buy a domain name that’s not listed? Acquiring a domain name that is not listed for sale requires a more personalized approach, as the current owner has not yet expressed their intent to sell the domain publicly. You'll need to: Identify the domain name:  Clearly define the domain name you are interested in acquiring. Consider factors such as keyword relevance, brand alignment and memorability. Research the owner:  Use WHOIS lookup tools to gather information about the current domain owner, including their contact details. This information will be crucial for initiating communication. Direct contact:  Compose a personalized email or letter directly to the domain owner expressing your interest in purchasing the domain name. Be respectful, professional and clearly convey your reasons for wanting the domain. Offer negotiation:  Propose an initial offer for the domain name based on your research and understanding of its value. Be open to negotiation and willing to compromise to reach a mutually agreeable price. Persistence:  Understand that acquiring an unlisted domain name may take time and effort. Follow up with the owner politely and professionally, demonstrating genuine interest without being overly pushy. Alternative options:  Explore alternative options if the initial contact or negotiation proves unsuccessful. Consider using domain marketplaces, expired domain auctions or alternative domain names that align with your objectives. 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. Explore domain pricing and get yours today. How to choose a domain name FAQ What's considered a good domain name? A good domain name is one that's memorable, easy to spell and relevant to your brand, business or purpose. It should be concise, avoiding hyphens and numbers that may cause confusion. Additionally, a good domain name reflects your identity and is unique, helping you stand out in the online space. Consider choosing a name that aligns with your content, is easy to pronounce and has a positive connotation. What to look for when buying a domain name? When buying a domain name, consider the following factors: Relevance:  Ensure the domain name reflects your brand, business or content. Memorability:  Choose a name that is easy to remember for visitors. Simplicity:  Avoid complex spellings, hyphens or numbers to enhance clarity. Keywords:  Include relevant keywords to improve search engine visibility. Availability:  Check for domain availability and consider variations if your first choice is taken. Domain Extension:  Select an appropriate domain extension (e.g., .com, .net, .org) based on your goals. Legal Considerations:  Check for trademarks and ensure your chosen domain doesn't infringe on others' rights. Domain History:  Investigate the history of the domain to avoid any potential issues. How do I go about buying a domain name? Decide on your domain name Check its availability, with a domain search tool Choose a domain registrar, like Wix Register your domain name Pay and confirm the purchase Connect to your website Really stuck for a domain name, how can I find one? Brainstorm with business partners, or even friends and family Use a domain name generator to get access to hundreds of potential names Use a thesaurus to find ideas for names or to use to combine words together to make a name Be inspired by what you read, watch and experience around you How does website hosting impact my domain choice? Your domain name should align with your hosting needs. For example, if you plan to launch an online store, choosing a domain that supports eCommerce hosting adds convenience and scalability. How do I find the domain name I want? Start by brainstorming words related to your brand, business or niche. Use a domain name generator to spark ideas and test different combinations, synonyms or word pairings. Check domain availability through a registrar’s search tool and if your first choice is taken, explore alternate domain extensions or variations that still feel true to your brand. What if my preferred domain name is taken? If your ideal domain name isn’t available, you have a few options: add a relevant keyword, location or niche term to your name, try a different domain extension or consider a slight spelling variation. You can also look up the domain’s owner via a WHOIS lookup and inquire if it’s for sale or keep an eye out to see if it becomes available in the future. How does domain privacy affect my website? Domain privacy, also known as WHOIS protection, shields your personal contact details from being publicly visible in the WHOIS database. This helps protect you from spam, phishing attempts and identity theft. Many domain registrars, including Wix, offer free domain privacy for eligible domains — it’s a smart, no-cost way to keep your personal information private. Can I change my domain name later? Yes — you can register a new domain at any time and connect it to your existing website. Just be aware that changing your domain may affect your SEO, existing backlinks and user familiarity. To maintain traffic, it’s a good idea to set up proper redirects from your old domain to the new one and update your links across social media, email signatures and business listings.

The perfect domain is just a click away:  claim your domain→  Most people choose a domain name for business thinking it’s a one-and-done deal, but I’ve seen many outgrow their domain names or run into issues they didn’t see coming. Whether you’re ready to buy a domain  or start fresh with a free website builder , it’s better to address potential problems early than fix them later. In this blog, I’ll help you decide when it’s time to finally face the music and make a change. Here are the top reasons why you might want to consider switching your domain name for business, based on my experience. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: domain name for business Choosing the right domain name for business is more important than you might think. A confusing, hard-to-remember or outdated domain can hurt branding, SEO and credibility. And if you’re learning how to make a website , this guide will help you spot the warnings signs and show you what to do about it. Key signs your domain might need a change Customers can’t spell or remember it easily. Domain extensions that hurts credibility ( .shop vs .com / .net ). It doesn’t reflect your brand clearly. Poor search engine rankings or SEO penalties. Too similar to another brand’s domain. You’re rebranding or expanding. Issue What to look for Quick fixes Hard to remember Misspellings, long URLs Shorten, simplify, remove hyphens/numbers TLD hurting credibility Unfamiliar extensions Consider .com, .net or widely accepted alternatives Doesn’t match brand Extra words, outdated keywords Secure premium or exact-match domain Low SEO performance Poor rankings, old penalties Audit domain history, set up 301 redirects Too similar to another brand Confusing or trademark conflicts Choose a distinct name, check trademarks Rebranding/expanding Business growth or new focus Update domain, redirect old URLs, secure misspellings & social handles Pair your domain with a professional business email  to boost credibility and keep your brand consistent. 6 signs your domain name for business needs an update If you’re wondering whether your domain name for business is holding you back, here are the key issues to look out for. We’ve also included relevant domain name statistics  to help you understand trends and see how your site compares. Jump to the section most relevant to you: Customers can't spell or remember your domain Your domain extension hurts credibility Your domain doesn't reflect your brand Your site isn't ranking well in search engines Your domain is too similar to another brand's You're rebranding or expanding 01. Your customers can’t spell or remember your domain name The logic here is simple. If your customers struggle to spell or recall your domain, then they’re less likely to end up on your site. Understanding what is a domain  can help you see why this matters, it’s more than just an address; it’s a key part of your brand identity. One way to see if you’re experiencing this issue is by looking at search trends. Do you see people frequently misspelling your domain on Google or on social media?   Alternatively, ask your customers for direct feedback or look at referral traffic for an idea of how many people are finding your site organically. Adam Garcia, founder of TheStockDork.com , once told us, “Last year alone, our domain name helped drive over 100,000 organic visits, since people actually remember and type it directly, rather than having to search for us on Google.” As Adam points out, your domain is a marketing asset. Make sure it’s serving you well. Tips for fixing this issue: Keep your domain name short, and snip out words like “the” if they’re nonessential. According to Wix data, the average domain length is 20 characters, including the “.com”/TLD. Use common words as opposed to jargon or complicated phrases. Avoid numbers and hyphens if you can help it (they’re easy to forget or mix up).  When implementing marketing strategies , use title capitalization to make the URL  more readable (for example, “BestCoffeeShop.com” versus “bestcoffeeshop.com”). If your domain is the same name as your business but is hard for people to remember, try a shorter abbreviation (just like how American Eagle Outfitters use ae.com). Learn more: Guide to domain extensions Cheapest domain extensions Most popular domain extensions Best domain extension for personal website What is an example of a domain name Can you buy a domain name forever? How to check if a domain name is available 02. You have a domain extension that’s hurting credibility These days, there are a number of different top-level domains ( TLDs ) you can choose from. There’s .ai , .shop, even .xyz . But while some TLDs, like .shop, can act as helpful descriptors, others might look awkward or unprofessional to your customers. From my experience, a .com domain  and a .net domain  remain the most universally accepted TLDs. That said, if you’re creating a website for a nonprofit or other organization, .org extensions are great too.  At the end of the day, it comes down to your core audience and how they perceive a specific TLD. If you use an uncommon TLD and see lower-than-average click-through rates (CTR) on your online ads or posts, this might indicate that people don’t quite trust your domain. Or, if you notice that you’re the only one in your industry using a specific TLD, you might want to consider switching to a more familiar extension.  Tips for fixing this issue:  A/B test other TLDs by running the same campaigns with a different domain. Do you see any changes in user engagement? If possible, buy your domain with multiple extensions (e.g., einat.com and einat.net) to connect them all to your site and protect your brand.  View more domain name trends , explore .org vs .com  or see the best .com alternatives  (according to business owners).  03. Your domain doesn’t reflect your brand  When you’re starting a business website and learning how to register a domain for the first time, you might end up throwing in an extra word or punctuation mark to get a domain that matches your brand the closest.  For example, before Dropbox landed dropbox.com, it used getdropbox.com to avoid paying a load of money for the cleaner, more direct URL. However as the company grew, it found that more and more people were searching dropbox.com (without the “get”), and they were thereby losing valuable web traffic. Finally, in October 2009, TechCrunch reported , “Dropbox Acquires The Domain Everyone Thought It Had.”  In the same vein, if you find yourself stuck with a second-best domain, ask yourself if it’s time to make a change.  Tips for fixing this issue:  While .com remains king, using another widely accepted TLD like .co or .net could help you secure an exact-match domain name if the .com version is taken. Consider using a country-code TLD as another alternative to .com. Sometimes, premium domains are worth their price. As Cyrus Partow, CEO of ShipTheDeal.com notes, “I found that investing $250 a year in ShipTheDeal.com was worth every penny since it perfectly matches our brand…After trying cheaper alternatives with hyphens and longer names that confused customers, I realized a clean, memorable domain actually saves money in marketing and builds more trust with shoppers.”   Try a domain name generator  to spark ideas or do a domain name search  to see what’s available and secure your ideal URL today. 04. Your site isn’t ranking well in search engines In some cases, different types of domains can actively work against your SEO goals. For instance, if your domain includes irrelevant or outdated keywords that no longer reflect your offerings, search engines may misinterpret what your site is about. This can, in turn, lead to lower rankings and less qualified traffic.  In another instance, a domain might carry a history of spammy behavior or SEO penalties from a previous owner. This type of history can be difficult to fully recover from and may continue to suppress your visibility in search results. Even beyond technical SEO, a confusing or untrustworthy-looking domain can negatively impact your CTR, which search engines pay attention to. Switching to a cleaner, more relevant and brandable domain can help reset your SEO standing and bring in more qualified traffic.  Tips for fixing this issue:  Audit your domain history  using WHOIS Lookup  (to check for frequent ownership changes that could have left behind a negative footprint) and Google Search Console (to see if any penalties have been applied). Evaluate your current domain rankings and keyword relevance using a tool like Semrush. Consider switching to a fresh, brandable domain. Make sure to set up 301 redirects, update all internal links and follow other best practices for how to change a domain name . Learn more: Domain management Can I buy a domain name permanently? 05. Your domain is too similar to another brand’s  If your domain resembles a competitor’s or an existing brand’s too closely, you risk confusing visitors and facing legal issues.  As an example, let’s say you’re launching a wellness brand with the URL GlowNaturals.com, only to find out there’s a massively popular skincare company called Glow Natural. It’s likely that consumers will mistype your URL, assuming you’re affiliated with Glow Natural. Search engines might similarly struggle to differentiate your brand. Worse, you could end up with a trademark dispute on your hands. Even if things don’t escalate legally, the brand confusion could hurt your credibility and make it nearly impossible to build a strong identity.  If people constantly ask, “Wait, are you the same as…?,” that’s a pretty clear sign that it’s time for a more distinct domain name. Using domain privacy  when registering your new domain can also protect your personal information and keep your ownership secure during this process. Tips for fixing this issue:  Before making any changes, test your current domain with real people. Ask friends, colleagues or potential customers what they think of your name and if it reminds them of anything else. Do a thorough trademark search on your new name. Search national and international trademark databases to ensure you're not encroaching on someone else's brand. Claim matching social media handles and domains, staying consistent across platforms reinforces your brand and prevents confusion. Claim a premium domain  to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one. 06. You’re rebranding or expanding If your business has outgrown its original name or focus, it’s time for your domain to catch up.  Maybe you started as a local business, and now you’re expanding to a global audience. Or, perhaps you’re heading in the same direction as Dunkin’, which dropped the “Donuts” from its original name (Dunkin’ Donuts) to reflect its expanding product line and its dreams of being known as a beverage company.  Your domain should ultimately appeal to the right audiences and reflect where your brand’s headed. Tips for fixing this issue:  Choose a domain that reflects your future, not just your past (read my tips for future-proofing your domain ). Try it out in conversation and consider a soft launch, where you slowly introduce your new domain to your customers or select focus groups.  Announce the change clearly. Let your audience know what’s changing and why.  When rebranding your website, update your email addresses, social profiles, marketing materials and anywhere else that uses your old domain. When moving to a new name, register (and redirect from) common misspellings and other extensions (like .net domain ) to avoid confusion and keep copycats at bay. Also, consider keeping your current domain if it closely matches your new one. This can help you avoid losing SEO equity and traffic from loyal visitors who may still type in your original URL. Sign up for Wix  today and get the perfect domain name in minutes  ➔ Domain name for business FAQ What is a domain name for business? A domain name for business is your website’s address on the internet (like YourBrand.com) that represents your brand online. It’s a key part of your identity and can affect branding, SEO features and customer trust. How do I know if my domain name for business isn't working? Signs your domain name for business may need an update include: Customers can’t spell or remember it It doesn’t reflect your brand Poor search engine rankings Confusion with other brands Outdated domain extensions Should I buy a domain for my business? Yes, buying a domain gives you full control over your online brand, protects your business from competitors and helps with credibility. You can purchase one directly or secure multiple extensions to protect your brand.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →  Safe domains are web addresses that are secure, free from malware and show clear signs of legitimacy , ensuring users can browse without risking their personal data or device safety. If you are looking to buy a domain name,  identifying and using safe domains is critical for building trust with your audience and protecting your own digital assets from cyber threats. Online security is non-negotiable for anyone browsing the web, creating a website  or maintaining a website. Understanding what makes a domain safe helps you spot potential scams, avoid phishing attacks and ensure your own site remains a trustworthy destination for visitors. TL;DR: what are safe domains? Websites on safe domains typically use website security protocols like HTTPS ( SSL certificate /TLS)  to encrypt data and are typically registered with reputable providers. They are free from malicious code and have a clean history. Feature Safe domain Unsafe domain Encryption Uses HTTPS (SSL/TLS) Often uses HTTP (no encryption) Verification Clear ownership or business transparency signals Hidden or suspicious ownership Content Clean, legitimate content Malware, phishing links or spam Reputation Clean history, no blacklisting History of spam or fraud Trust indicators Trust seals, contact info Excessively pop-ups, no contact info 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. Safe domains explained A safe domain acts as a secure and trustworthy location on the internet . It is a digital address where visitors can land without fear of having their information stolen or their devices infected.  Technically, this involves the implementation of HTTPS, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. This protocol ensures that any data transferred between the user's browser and the website's server is encrypted and cannot be easily intercepted by hackers. Beyond the technical protocols, a safe domain also refers to the reputation of the URL itself. Search engines like Google actively penalize sites that host malware or engage in deceptive practices. Therefore, a "safe" domain is one that has maintained a good standing with search engines and security databases, ensuring it hasn't been flagged for suspicious activity. You may also be interested in: URI vs URL Domain vs URL Benefits of having a safe domain Operating on a safe domain is foundational to your website's success. The most immediate benefit is trust; when visitors see the padlock icon in their browser bar, they feel comfortable browsing your content and sharing information. This is especially vital for eCommerce sites  where users input sensitive credit card details. Search engines prioritize user safety, and using HTTPS is a lightweight ranking signal. Sites without it may be treated as less trustworthy, while browsers can show warning messages if a site is flagged as unsafe. These warnings often discourage visitors from continuing, which can lead to higher bounce rates and lost traffic. Discover more website security tips . Common challenges of keeping a domain safe Keeping your domain safe isn’t just about choosing the right name. It also means protecting it over time from misuse, hijacking and impersonation. As websites grow, attackers increasingly look for weak points in domain registrations and DNS settings they can exploit. The risk is real. In 2023, there were an estimated 1.2 million domain hijackings worldwide, with DNS hijacking incidents rising by nearly 19%   compared to the previous year. Small businesses were among the most common targets, often because security settings weren’t fully in place. One common challenge is staying on top of SSL certificate management. If a n SSL certificate expires, even briefly, browsers may label the site as “Not Secure.” This warning can discourage visitors instantly and undermine trust. Another challenge is defending against unauthorized access. Cybercriminals regularly scan for vulnerabilities such as weak passwords, outdated plugins or unsecured configurations. If a domain is compromised, resolving the issue and restoring trust with visitors and search engines can take time. It’s also important to be aware of the wider threat landscape. Every day, thousands of new malicious domains are created  for phishing, spam and malware. This makes ongoing monitoring and proactive protection essential for keeping your own domain safe and your brand credible online. Learn more about domain spoofing . Are all domains safe? Not every domain extension or website you encounter is safe. While extensions in the top-level domain (TLD) list  like .com  or .org  are widely recognized and generally trusted, the safety of a domain depends more on the specific website owner and their security practices than the extension itself. Any domain can be compromised if not properly secured. Cybercriminals often register domains that look very similar to popular websites (typosquatting) to trick users into visiting them. They might also use cheaper, less common domain extensions to spin up spam sites quickly.  It is always necessary to look beyond the extension and check for security indicators like HTTPS and valid contact information. Learn more with this guide to domain extensions . Is .xyz domain safe? The .xyz  domain extension is a legitimate, generic top-level domain (gTLD) . It was created to offer a flexible and affordable alternative to .com. Many reputable businesses and individuals use .xyz for their web addresses, including Alphabet (Google’s parent company). However, because .xyz domains can be very cheap to register, they have occasionally been favored by spammers or scammers looking for disposable web addresses. This doesn't mean the extension itself is unsafe, but it does mean users should exercise the same caution they would with any other site.  In summation, if a .xyz site has SSL encryption and legitimate content, it is just as safe as a .com. Learn more about cheapest domain extensions. Are .me domains safe? Yes, .me  domains are safe and legitimate. Originally the country code TLD for Montenegro, it has become incredibly popular globally for personal brands, blogs and portfolios because of its catchy, personal appeal (e.g., about.me ). Similar to .xyz, the safety of a .me website depends on the site owner. The registry that manages .me domains has strict policies against abuse, actively suspending domains involved in malware or phishing. This proactive management helps maintain a generally positive reputation for the extension. Learn more: what is a ccTLD? Is .to domain safe? The .to domain is the country code TLD for the Kingdom of Tonga. It is widely used by legitimate businesses and tech startups, particularly because "to" is a common preposition in English, allowing for creative domain hacks (like go.to). In terms of safety, .to is a respectable extension. However, it functions with a bit more anonymity than some other TLDs, which can occasionally attract questionable actors. As always, the extension itself is not inherently dangerous, but you should verify the site's security certificate and content before trusting it. Discover more: What is .ai domain? Is .shop a good domain? Examples of safe domains Recognizing a safe domain usually involves looking at the full URL structure. A safe domain typically starts with https:// rather than http://. Here are examples of what safe domain structures look like: https://www.google.com  (Uses HTTPS, reputable TLD) https://www.wix.com  (Secure connection, verified business) https://example.store  (Newer TLD, but secure if using HTTPS) Conversely, an unsafe domain might look like: http://example-bank-login.com  (No encryption, suspicious keywords) http://192.168.1.1   (Direct IP access is uncommon for public websites and should be approached cautiously) How to check if a domain is legit Verifying a website’s legitimacy takes just a few seconds and can save you from serious headaches, from phishing scams to data theft. Use this quick checklist to separate safe domains from sketchy ones before you click, sign up or make a purchase. Look for the padlock Verify the full URL carefully Review the “About Us” and contact pages Use a domain transparency or safety tool Check for a privacy policy and legal pages Trust your instincts 01. Look for the padlock Check the browser’s address bar for the lock icon and the https:// prefix. This means the site uses SSL encryption to protect data sent between your browser and the website. Learn more: how to get an SSL certificate . 02. Verify the full URL carefully Scammers often rely on small typos that are easy to miss, such as amaz0n.com  instead of amazon.com . Always read the domain name character by character, especially before entering login or payment details. Learn more: what is a URL? 03. Review the “About Us” and contact pages Legitimate businesses usually provide clear company information, such as a physical address, phone number or professional contact email. A lack of transparency is often a red flag. 04. Use a domain transparency or safety tool Paste the URL into tools like Google Safe Browsing to see whether the site has been flagged for malware, phishing or suspicious behavior. 05. Check for a privacy policy and legal pages Safe domains typically include a privacy policy, terms of service or cookie notice linked in the footer. These pages signal that the site follows basic legal and data protection standards. 06. Trust your instincts If a website pressures you to act quickly, offers deals that seem too good to be true or asks for sensitive information unexpectedly, it’s best to leave and verify before proceeding. Safe domains with Wix Choosing a safe domain starts with how and where you register it. Wix is designed to make domain registration simple, fast and secure, especially for businesses that want peace of mind from day one. “Certain domain registrars offer packages with added security (like WHOIS privacy protection), premium DNS services, SSL certificates or website-building tools. While these extras can increase the annual cost, they offer value in terms of convenience, security and performance. For businesses handling sensitive data or relying heavily on online transactions, these features are crucial." - Kumar Abhinav, Senior Link Building Analyst at Mavlers When it comes to domain registration, Wix simplifies domain registration for your business by letting you search, purchase and manage your domain from a single dashboard. There’s no need to juggle multiple providers or complex setup steps. Security and domain privacy protection  is built in from the start. Wix ensures secure domain registration with SSL certification, helping protect data exchanged between your website and its visitors. This encryption is a foundational signal of trust, both for users and for search engines. Speed also matters. Wix offers quick domain registration, so once you find an available domain, you can secure it immediately and reduce the risk of someone else claiming it. From there, you can manage renewals, DNS settings and security features in one place, making it easier to keep your domain safe as your site grows. Together, these features help ensure your domain isn’t just available—but reliable, protected and ready to support a trustworthy online presence. Learn more: How to choose a domain name How to buy a domain name How to register a domain name How to choose a domain registrar Can I buy a domain name permanently? What are safe domains FAQ How do I know if a website is safe to buy from? Check that the URL starts with https:// and shows a padlock icon, which means your connection is encrypted. Review the full domain name carefully to avoid look-alike sites and look for clear contact details, return policies and secure payment options. Reading recent customer reviews from independent sources can also help. If a deal feels unusually cheap or rushed, it’s best to double-check before purchasing. Can a safe domain become unsafe? Yes, a legitimate domain can become unsafe if it gets hacked or if the owner lets the security certificate expire. Hackers can inject malware into otherwise safe sites without the owner knowing. This is why browsers constantly re-evaluate the safety status of websites. What should I do if my browser says a site is not secure? If you see a "Not Secure" warning, do not enter any personal or financial information on that page. It means the connection isn’t encrypted, which means data could be intercepted . If it is a site you visit often, you can try contacting the owner to let them know their security certificate may have expired.

The perfect domain is just a click away:  claim your domain→ Choosing a domain name shouldn’t slow you down. The right process makes it easy to grab a name that fits your brand, avoid legal or technical headaches, and move from idea to live website in minutes. TL;DR: how to get a domain name fast and easy A strong domain is easy to remember, fits your business and is protected across different extensions. From picking a name to checking availability, choosing the right extension, registering securely and protecting your brand, the process can be quick and simple with the right tools. You’ll learn: How to choose a domain name that’s short, clear and brand-aligned How to check availability and explore extension options Steps to register your domain and set up essentials like SSL and email How to secure variations and related domains for long-term brand protection 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. Why getting your domain should be simple Grabbing your domain name right away is a smart move for your brand. Great names are popular and go fast so waiting might mean missing out on the one that fits your vision. Plus the sooner you get yours the sooner you can get your site live and start meeting new customers. Claiming your name should be as quick and fun as coming up with the idea itself. If the process feels tricky it’s easy to get overwhelmed or settle for a name that isn't quite right. We’re here to make the experience simple and friendly so you can pick the best domain and start building with confidence. Learn more: What is a domain name? Easiest way to get a domain: step by step guide Whether you're launching a blog, a business website an online portfolio or an online store choosing a domain name is one of the first and more important steps. Choose a domain name Easily check if your domain name is available Choose the right domain extension Register and buy your domain name 01. Choose a domain name The easiest way to learn how to choose a domain name is to use a domain name generator . Once you have a list of names, these tips can help make it easier to narrow down the right one. Keep it short and simple Use keywords if possible Avoid numbers and hyphens  Make it brandable  Check spelling and pronunciation  When it came to selecting a domain for Carepatron, CEO Jamie Frew says the most important factors were clarity, accessibility and alignment with our mission.  “We wanted a name that clearly conveyed our focus on healthcare while being memorable and easy for users worldwide to understand. 'Care' captures our commitment to healthcare and well-being, while 'patron' reflects support and partnership, a core part of our mission to empower both healthcare practitioners and patients.” A   good   example   of   a   domain   name   would   be   — petguru.com A less than idea example would be — my-pet-services-1234.biz Claim a premium domain  to boost your brand authority and make marketing easier from day one. 02. Easily check if your domain name is available You can do this with a domain name search tool, like Wix. If your name isn't available the search tool will let you know and give recommendations for other alternatives. They might suggest using an alternative domain extension with the same name. For example if, spablisssalon.com is unavailable but spablissalon.net is — they'll give you this alternative to use. Wix makes domain transfer  easy, with free SSL, reliable hosting, privacy options and 24/7 support. 03. Choose the right domain extension A domain extension is the .com , .net  or .org that comes at the end of a url. It’s also called a TLD (top-level domain). Some of the most common domain extensions are: .com: Most popular and trusted .net: Often used by tech companies .org: Typically used by nonprofits .co: Modern alternative to .com .shop, .tech, .studio: Niche-specific If your exact .com is taken you can: Use a different extension (like .co) Modify your name slightly (e.g., sunnybakeryonline.com) 04. Register and buy your domain A domain registrar, like Wix, is a company authorized to sell domain names. Learn more: What is a domain name registrar? How to register a domain name Best domain registrars Is Wix good for business email? Can you buy a domain name forever? If you're looking to easily get a domain name look for the following in your domain registrar: Free WHOIS privacy protection (included with Wix) Transparent renewal pricing Easy DNS management Good customer support Learn more: How to buy a domain name Once you're ready registering a domain is easy to do: Add the domain to your cart Choose registration length (1 year is standard, multi-year options are often available) Enable auto-renew if you don’t want it to expire Add privacy protection Complete your payment If you have a Wix paid plan , registering a customized domain is free. If you're learning how to make your own website , the easiest way to get a domain name is with a website maker  like Wix. Tips for easily choosing a domain name When you pick a domain, make sure the plan includes web hosting  so you’re not stuck sorting out tech pieces one by one. With a Wix website , hosting is already built in. This means your domain connects smoothly and your site loads fast without extra setup from you. Setting up your domain the smart way Think beyond just the domain itself. You’ll also want business email  options to create branded addresses, SSL to keep your site secure, privacy protection to hide your personal info, DNS controls for things like subdomains and solid uptime so your site stays available. Wix bundles all of this into one place so you can connect your domain, set up your email, manage security and start building without jumping between different providers. Secure multiple domains for your brand Protect your brand name by picking up extra versions of it so no one else can. Start with the obvious ones like com, .net, or .org then grab regional extensions if you serve specific countries. You should also think about common typos, plural vs singular versions and shorter versions people might type in a rush. Forward all these domains to your main site so every visitor lands in the right place. This way no competitor or scammer can use a close variation to confuse your audience. This also helps you hold onto your brand long term as you grow and expand into new products, niches or locations. How to get a good domain name A strong domain name makes your site easy to find and remember, so it’s worth spending a little time to get it right. Here’s how to choose one that’s clear, simple and matches your brand. Keep it short and clean : Go for a name that’s easy to type and say. Short words or pairs of short words stick in people’s minds and help reduce typos. Avoid hyphens, numbers or unusual spellings that might confuse visitors. Connect it to your craft: Add a word that gives a little hint about what you do. This helps visitors get a sense of your business right away. For example, you can add words like “studio” “design” “tutor” “bakery” “shop” or “media” to make your name more descriptive without making it too long. Say it aloud: If a name is hard to say, it’s probably not the one. Choose something that’s easy to say so you can share it in conversation, on social media, podcasts and marketing materials. Check extension options: While a .com is still the most familiar extension it’s not your only choice. Many businesses use alternatives like .co, .io, .store, .blog or .design. Choose one that fits your brand and feels trustworthy for your audience. Avoid trademark trouble: Before you commit run a quick search to make sure the name isn’t already tied to another brand in your industry. This saves you from legal issues forced rebrands or SEO setbacks later. Grab related domains: If you find a name you love register close variations or other extensions to protect the brand you’re building. You can forward them all to your main site so visitors always land in the right place. Check socials too: Consistency helps people find you faster. Look up username availability on the platforms you plan to use so your branding stays aligned across your site email and social channels. Choose it early: Domains move fast. Once you find something that fits register it quickly. Securing your name early gives you room to plan your site set up email and build your brand without surprises later. How fast a domain actually becomes active Most of the time your domain will be up and running within minutes. Other times it might take a few hours for everything to sync up. Once you register, your domain info needs a little time to spread across servers worldwide. This is called DNS propagation. You might notice your site loads on your phone but not your laptop or works in Safari but not Chrome. If it’s been less than 24 hours, patience is your best friend. Tweaking your settings over and over can actually reset the clock and slow things down. Once a full day has passed, you can jump back in to check your DNS settings and make sure your account is good to go. Setting up your email can take a bit longer than the website itself. Since any change to your DNS records can restart the clock, it’s best to get your settings right the first time and then let them settle. Learn more: I want to buy a domain name What is domain authority? ccTLD meaning Domain name and website hosting Why do I need a domain name? Can I buy a domain name permanently? What is SSL certificate? What's the easiest way to get a domain FAQ Can I get a domain easily for free? Yes but with limitations, some website builders (like Wix) offer a free subdomain (e.g., yourname.wixsite.com). Can I change my domain name later? Yes but your audience and SEO rankings might be affected so pick carefully the first time if possible. How long does it take to activate a domain? Usually within minutes, but DNS changes (e.g., pointing to a host) can take up to 48 hours to fully propagate. How can I permanently buy a domain name? You can’t buy a domain forever since domain registration is a lease. While you can’t own it permanently you can register it for up to 10 years at a time. To keep your domain indefinitely just make sure to renew it. Many registrars even offer an auto-renewal feature so you don’t have to worry about it expiring. Do I need an LLC for a domain? No, you don’t need an LLC to register a domain. Anyone can purchase and manage a domain as an individual. Having an LLC or other business structure provides legal protection, credibility and separation of personal and business assets. It’s more about your business setup than domain ownership. Do I have to pay for my domain name every year? Yes, you’ll need to pay an annual renewal fee for your domain. If you forget to renew, you could lose your domain to someone else. To make things easy, most registrars offer multi-year registrations and automatic renewals so you don’t have to worry about your domain expiring. How do I protect my domain from squatters? To protect your domain from squatters use domain privacy to hide your personal info. This makes it harder for them to target you. It's also smart to register variations of your domain like common misspellings and different extensions. Enable auto-renewal so your domain doesn’t accidentally expire and set up alerts to catch any suspicious activity early.

The perfect domain is just a click away:  claim your domain   → You do not strictly need to buy a domain name  to publish a website, because many website builders provide a free version of a URL to get you started. When you are ready to put your ideas online and make a website , the technical side of things can feel a bit overwhelming. You have likely heard terms like "IP address," "DNS," and "hosting" thrown around. But the most common question we hear is whether you actually need to open your wallet and buy a unique custom domain name just to get a site live. The answer is a little nuanced. While you can technically exist online without paying for a custom name (like yourbrand.com), sticking with a free address (like username.wixsite.com/site) sends a very different message to your visitors. It really comes down to what you are building and who you are building it for. This guide breaks down exactly when you can get away with a free address, when you should definitely upgrade and how to make that switch without a headache. TL;DR: do you need a domain for a website? If you are in a rush, this table breaks down the core differences between using a free URL provided by a platform and buying your own custom domain. Feature Free subdomain (e.g., user.wixsite.com/site) Custom domain (e.g., yoursite.com) Cost Free forever Yearly fee (usually $10-$20/year) Professionalism Low (best for personal projects) High (standard for businesses) Memorable No (long and complex) Yes (short and catchy) SEO potential Limited High (Google prefers custom domains) Ownership You rent space on the platform's domain You own the address completely Email address Generic (e.g., gmail.com ) Branded (e.g., info@yoursite.com) 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. The difference between a website and a domain A website is the collection of pages, images and text that you create, while a domain is the specific address people type into their browser to find it. Think of it like a house and a street address. Your website is the house: it holds all your furniture, your style and your content. The domain name is the address on the mailbox. You can build a beautiful house, but if the address is impossible to find or hard to remember, fewer people are going to stop by. Technically, every website has an IP address (a string of numbers like 192.158.1.38), but humans are terrible at remembering long random numbers. That is why we use domain names. They act as a user-friendly mask over those numbers. Discover more: How to buy a domain name What are custom domains? When you can skip the custom domain You can skip buying a custom domain if you are just testing an idea, building a school project or creating a site for personal use. If you aren't trying to sell a product or build a global brand right now, a free URL is perfectly fine. When you build a website on a platform like Wix, you are automatically assigned a web address. A Wix URL allows instant publishing without you needing to enter credit card details or configure complex settings. Here are a few scenarios where a free domain makes sense: Personal portfolios:  If you are sending a link directly to a hiring manager, they care more about your work than your URL. Event invitations:  For a one-time birthday party or family reunion, a free link to your  event website  works just fine. Beta testing:  If you are just seeing if anyone is interested in your new blog idea, start free and upgrade later. Class projects:  Students rarely need to purchase digital assets for homework. In these cases, Wix provides free web hosting  alongside that free URL, so your site is live and secure without any extra cost. Learn more about domain name and website hosting . Why you probably want a custom domain anyway You likely want a custom domain because it makes your brand look credible, protects your brand name and helps people find you on Google. While "need" is a strong word, "should have" is definitely applicable here. If you are running a business or trying to establish yourself as an expert, a custom domain is one of the cheapest investments you can make for your credibility. Builds immediate trust Imagine you are looking for a lawyer. Would you trust lawyer-steve.wixsite.com/legal-help  or stevelegal.com ? The custom domain signals that you are established and professional. Wix offers personalized addresses to help you make this jump from hobbyist to professional. Helps with SEO Search engines like Google look at your domain name to understand what your site is about. A clean, keyword-rich domain name (like chicagopizza.com ) gives you a slight edge. Plus, as you build authority on that domain, that value stays with you forever. Makes word-of-mouth easier Try telling someone your website address in a loud coffee shop: Option A:  "It's my name, then dot wixsite, then slash, then 'consulting'." Option B:  "It's SarahConsulting.com ." Option B wins every time. Learn more: what to do if domain name is taken . How to get a domain name for your website Whether you buy a new domain or connect an existing one, the goal is the same: creating a smooth, reliable connection between your domain name and your website.  Getting a domain name is usually much easier than people expect. In most cases, you have two simple options: either buy a new domain directly through your website platform or connect an existing domain you already own from another registrar. You don’t need coding skills or technical knowledge, as the setup process is mostly guided and can be completed in just a few steps. For most people, purchasing and managing everything in one place is the easiest route. However, connecting an existing domain works just as well if you already have one you love. Buying a new domain Connecting an existing domain 01. Buying a new domain This is the simplest and most beginner-friendly path. You can purchase a domain directly through Wix inside your dashboard during or after the website setup process. Wix offers a domain name search tool and domain name generator to help make selecting a domain name as simple as possible. The main advantage is convenience: your website, domain, billing and renewals are all managed in one account. That means fewer logins, fewer renewal reminders to track and less risk of your site going offline because of missed payments or expired settings. Buying through your website builder also helps streamline setup because the domain connects automatically and you don’t need to configure technical settings manually. Once purchased, your domain is ready to use immediately with your site. 02. Connecting an existing domain If you already bought a domain from a domain provider, you don’t need to abandon it. You can connect that domain to your new website by updating a few connection settings. There are two main ways to do this: Option 1: Name servers (recommended) This option allows Wix to host your DNS (Domain Name System). In practical terms, that means you manage your domain connection settings directly from your Wix dashboard. Why this is usually best: Easier to manage everything in one place More stable connection in the long term Simpler troubleshooting if something goes wrong Faster setup for most users For most website owners, this is the smoothest and most reliable option. Learn more about domain transfer . Option 2: Pointing Pointing keeps your DNS settings with your original registrar while directing website traffic to Wix. When this makes sense: You have existing email hosting you want to keep unchanged You use advanced DNS configurations with your current provider You prefer managing DNS externally While pointing works well in certain situations, it can be slightly more complex to manage since your website and domain settings live in separate accounts. The cost of upgrading Buying a domain usually costs money, but connecting it to your site often requires a premium plan on most website builders. It is important to distinguish between the cost of the name  and the cost of the connection . Domain price This is paid to the registrar (like a rental fee for the name). It’s usually $10-$20 a year. Learn more: how to choose a domain registrar . Hosting/Connection price Wix Premium plans include custom domains as a feature. On the free plan, you must use the free URL. To connect your own yoursite.com, you upgrade your site plan. Many annual plans actually come with a voucher for one year of a free domain, so Wix simplifies domain management   by bundling the costs for the first year. Learn more: how much does a domain name cost? Do you need a domain for a website: making the right call You need a domain if you want your website to function as a true business asset, but you can still start without one if you’re simply exploring or testing an idea. Don’t let the decision slow you down. The web is flexible, and you can begin with a free site today, build your content and grow your presence over time. When you’re ready to take the next step, Wix simplifies domain registration for your business, making it easy to move from a trial stage to a professional online presence without complicated setup. As your site grows, security becomes just as important as branding. That’s why Wix ensures secure domain registration with SSL certification, helping protect visitor data and reinforcing trust with both users and search engines. And when you decide it’s time to go all in, speed matters. Wix offers quick domain registration, so you can secure your name fast and keep moving forward without unnecessary delays. If you’re ready to look professional, grab that domain. If you’re still experimenting, enjoy the free version. The most important step is simply hitting “Publish.” You may also be interested in: how much does an SSL certificate cost? Do you need a domain for a website FAQ Can I change my domain name later? Yes, you can change your domain name later. If you start with a free URL, you can switch to a custom domain at any time. If you already have a custom domain, you can purchase a new one and connect it to the same site, though you should be careful about losing traffic from the old name. Learn more: How to buy expired domains Can I buy a domain name permanently? What is a parked domain? Dropped domains Does a domain name include email? No, a domain name does not automatically include email hosting. However, once you own a domain (like myshop.com), you can purchase a personalized mailbox (like info@myshop.com) through Google Workspace or similar providers and connect it to your domain. Learn more: does Wix provide email hosting? What is a top-level domain(TLD)? A TLD is the extension at the end of your domain name, such as .com, .org, or .net.  Wix provides a list of TLDs   to choose from, so if the .com  version of your name is taken, you might be able to find it with .net  or .studio . Is domain privacy protection worth it? Yes, domain privacy protection  is usually worth the small extra cost. When you register a domain, your contact info is added to a public directory called WHOIS. Privacy protection hides your personal details from spammers and telemarketers. Wix protects private information when you select this add-on during purchase. Learn more about domain security  with Wix.

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

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   When starting a business , every dollar counts. So, when we’re asked, “How much are you willing to pay for a domain?,” many of us are probably tempted to answer, “As little as possible.” (Some of us might even recall googling “ how to get a free domain ” when we were learning how to create a website  for the first time.) But for others, a domain name might be worth more than you’d think. Some are willing to spend hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a year on the right domain for their brand.  To get to the bottom of it, we asked several business owners what makes a domain worth a higher price. Below are their top reasons.  Brand recognition Brand credibility Email credibility SEO benefits Local SEO Bundled services Existing domain authority Long-term brand value Competitiveness and future-proofing Brand recognition “We pay more than $100 a year for certain domain names, but only when they hold a strategic edge,” says Alan Carr , creative director at Webpop Design , a design agency based in London. “The question is never about price alone—it’s about whether the domain strengthens visibility, credibility or long-term positioning. When a name aligns with branding and market perception, it can carry more weight than any marketing campaign.” Cyrus Partow , CEO of ShipTheDeal , similarly notes, “I found that investing $250 a year in ShipTheDeal.com was worth every penny since it perfectly matches our brand and instantly tells visitors what we do. After trying cheaper alternatives with hyphens and longer names that confused customers, I realized a clean, memorable domain actually saves money in marketing and builds more trust with shoppers.” “I've noticed our domain name actually becomes a conversation starter at networking events and helps potential sellers remember us,” says founder Shannon Beatty  about her business House Buying Girls . “HouseBuyingGirls.com costs us $150 annually, and it helps us stand out in the male-dominated real estate investing space.” Adam Garcia , founder of The Stock Dork , pays upwards of $2,500 a year for his premium domain. “TheStockDork.com is a memorable, quirky domain that helps us stand out in the crowded financial advice space and makes our brand more approachable for new investors. Last year alone, our domain name helped drive over 100,000 organic visits, since people actually remember and type it directly, rather than having to search for us on Google.”  Related reading: What is a domain name?  The basics of web infrastructure   How to choose a domain name Brand credibility  According to Hilary Schultz , owner of Bright Bid Homes , “BrightBidHomes.com costs us about $200 annually, and while it seemed steep at first, having a catchy, memorable domain has been crucial for our word-of-mouth referrals. When comparing it to our monthly marketing budget and the value of even one closed deal, the domain cost  is actually quite minimal for the professional image and trust it helps build with potential clients.” Chief marketing officer of Penfriend , Tim Hanson , shares similar sentiments: “Penfriend.ai costs significantly more than a standard .com  domain because it's a .ai TLD . In our case, it was a no-brainer because we're an AI company, and having that .ai extension instantly communicates what we do…Our simple value calculation goes like this: If having a .ai domain helps close even one enterprise deal faster by adding legitimacy (which it has), it's paid for itself many times over. Sometimes the ‘expensive’ option is actually the cheapest when you look at the bigger picture of what you're trying to achieve.” Learn more: How much does a domain cost? Email credibility  “I shell out over $100 yearly for domains without flinching,” states InboxArmy  CEO, Scott Cohen . “While securing domains for InboxArmy, I never settled for clunky or forgettable options. A clean, professional URL  radiates credibility, which is especially crucial to email marketing where trust determines whether messages land or die. I watch businesses cut corners with hyphenated domains or weird extensions, then scramble when they lose traffic to the obvious .com version.”  “Sure, I'd skip the premium if the domain won't impact trust or sales. But most people don't grasp a domain's worth until poor choices cost them business. And frankly, I'd rather invest early than regret it later,” he adds.  SEO benefits  “Over time, AI-centric SEO, generative search optimization and evolving search dynamics will make domain names even more valuable. A generic name like ‘SEO Wizard’ or ‘SEO Rockstar’ won't cut it anymore,” states Bhavik Sarkhedi , founder of Ohh My Brand . Bhavik spends between $250 to $350 on domains for his businesses, which all flaunt unique names (like 'Dad of Ad' and ‘Taletel’ to name a few).  “You need a name that commands attention. Both my domains already rank well with minimal backlinks, proving their potential. Assessing a domain's true value today is difficult, but the long-term outlook is that clear-strong domain names will matter more than ever,” he notes.  “Justifying over $100 for a domain annually can be worth it in certain cases,” says another founder, Cache Merrill  who started software company Zibtek . “I have purchased premium domains for projects where brand equity and SEO were fundamental…For example, we once bought a short, keyword domain for a SaaS product, and the direct traffic alone was able to lower the customer acquisition cost.” “In my experience, businesses that rely heavily on search-driven customers often find the investment well worth it,” further adds Stefan Van der Vlag , AI expert and founder of Clepher . “I believe in investing wisely in your online presence by choosing a premium keyword domain. This can save money in the long run by reducing the need for constant paid advertisements and increasing website visibility.” Looking for extra SEO support? Check out Wix's full suite of SEO features . Local SEO  When it comes to SEO, a clear and specific domain name can make it easier for local businesses to get found online.  Case in point: “A strong domain name matters in the legal industry,” says Justin Lovely , owner of the Lovely Law Firm Injury Lawyers . “If a premium domain contains high-intent keywords—like "[City]InjuryLawyer.com"—it can boost search rankings, increase trust and drive organic leads. When potential clients search for representation, they click on what feels authoritative and local.” That said, “some businesses overpay for domains that add no real value. If the name is too long, hard to spell or unrelated to a practice area, it won't generate leads…The real test is whether the domain contributes to signed cases. If it doesn't, a standard domain at a fraction of the cost may be just as effective,” says Justin.  Jessica Henderson , founder of Sell My House Fast Houston TX , echoes this belief. “I started with a basic $12 domain name but quickly realized I needed something more memorable for our Houston market, so I now pay about $85 annually.  “After switching to SellMyHouseFastHouston.com, we've seen better organic search results and clients mention finding us more easily through Google. Though I considered fancier domains costing $200 or more, I've found our current mid-range domain strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and cost-effectiveness for our local business.”  Bundled services   “Some business owners might pay more [for their domains because of the] inclusion of bundled services,” states senior link building analyst at Mavlers , Kumar Abhinav . “Certain domain registrars offer packages with added security (like WHOIS privacy protection), premium DNS  services, SSL certificates, a free domain name or website-building tools. While these extras can increase the annual cost, they offer value in terms of convenience, security and performance. For businesses handling sensitive data or relying heavily on online transactions, these features are crucial. “Ultimately, the value of paying a premium for a domain comes down to ROI…for smaller businesses or startups, it's essential to balance the cost with current needs and budget constraints.” Existing domain authority   “Why beg for authority when you can inherit it?” asks Milosz Krasinski , international SEO consultant and owner of Chilli Fruit Web Consulting .  “Paying [for a premium domain] isn't just about owning a name, but about stepping into existing authority instead of fighting for scraps. If I can pick up a domain that already has trust, backlinks and history, I'm not starting at zero. I'm walking into a space where search engines already see value. “I've grabbed domains with links from sites that I'd never land through cold outreach, and that alone saves months of effort…A strong domain means I can skip the slow climb, push quality content and rank faster. It's just working smarter. “When I size up a domain, I don't just skim DR or traffic. I dig deep—who owned it, who linked to it and did Google ever slap it down? A domain isn't just a URL. If it's got the right domain history  and weight, it's a business asset—and those don't come cheap.” Long-term brand value “It cannot be expressed in numeric value, but I would say that the name of our domain is at least 5% of our brand value,” estimates Kacper Rafalski , demand generation team leader at Netguru . He elaborates that “companies tend to become victims of their own success, as the pricing for the domain increases with the popularity of their website . “Being an established company, with a big reputation in Europe, the pricing on our domain has seen an increase over the last few years. We've missed the chance to expand the plan for more years and had to renew it from scratch, and all of a sudden the pricing went to around $110 per year.  “If we were a smaller company, we probably would have been encouraged to look for a new domain, but the costs of change and potential traffic loss weren't worth it. The value of our domain is purely from the branding perspective. We could move the whole content, redirect all the SEO value and links we have, but the branding is what makes the domain name important to us.” Learn more about how to redirect a domain .  Competitiveness and future-proofing   “I pay $125 per year for my domain AllFilters.com, which is absolutely worth it because I believe that investing in a premium domain is important for brand protection and future-proofing. Owning a high-quality, easy-to-remember domain…prevents competitors from taking similar names and diluting my market presence,” says Shu Saito , CEO and founder of All Filters .  “Another benefit has been the increased partnership opportunities. Since the domain directly reflects what we offer, it makes collaborations with other companies or influencers in the filtration industry smoother,” Shu adds.  Similarly, Alan from Webpop Design states, “Assessing value goes beyond instinct. We analyze search relevance, direct traffic potential and resale history to determine if a domain holds long-term worth. Some investments age like fine wine, gaining traction with time, while others serve a specific campaign before being retired. The real measure comes from performance, if the domain consistently brings in the right audience or positions the brand ahead of competitors, the investment speaks for itself.”  On another note, “investing in a premium domain reduces the risk of phishing, cybersquatting and brand confusion, which can damage customer trust and impact revenue,” says Rob Gold , VP of marketing communications at Intermedia , a cloud communication company. “This was a top priority for us, considering the line of work we do.” Read also:  Tips for future-proofing your domain Domain name trends  you won’t want to ignore So, when is a premium domain worth the extra cash?  To be clear, a premium domain isn’t for everyone. As Natalia Lavrenenko , UGC and marketing manager at Rathly , points out, “Keeping domain expenses [low] lets funds go towards other growth projects.” Manager director at Insurance Panda , James Shaffer , also warns against purchasing a premium domain just because it’s trendy or as a substitute for a name that’s already taken. “If the .com is taken and you’re paying extra for a .biz, .info or some other odd extension, you’re probably losing traffic to the ‘real’ owner.”  To properly assess the value of a domain, think about factors like brandability, memorability, credibility, organic authority and/or resale value. Or, as James puts it, “If a domain is driving business, justifying the cost is easy. If it’s just sitting there, you might be better off cutting your losses.”

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Popular domain extensions like .com, .org and .net have become online standards, signaling trust, credibility and professionalism. Choosing the right one helps your website stand out, attract organic traffic and build long-term recognition for your business. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular domain extensions , what they mean and how to choose the best one for your brand. Website trends may come and go, but a domain name is meant to last. TL;DR: Popular domain extensions Choosing the right domain extension does more than help users find your site—it can also shape how your brand is perceived online. From classics like .com to emerging extensions like .ai, this guide breaks down the most popular domain extensions, how they’re being used today and what to consider when picking the one that best fits your business. You'll also get a look at newly launched TLDs and industry-specific options to help your domain stand out while aligning with your goals and audience. Popular SLD Description Best fit for .jobs Perfect for career sites or companies showcasing open positions. Job seekers, recruiters, HR teams .foundation Great for nonprofit organizations and charitable trusts. Nonprofits, charities, philanthropic groups .info A flexible choice for websites sharing resources or educational content. Educators, researchers, resource hubs .home Ideal for personal websites or online portfolios. Individuals, freelancers, creatives .services Clearly shows your website offers professional services. Consultants, agencies, service providers .tech Instantly connects your site to the tech industry. Startups, developers, IT companies .health Perfect for healthcare providers, medical institutions and wellness brands. Doctors, clinics, wellness businesses .digital Highlights your focus on digital products, services or strategies. Marketers, SaaS companies, eCommerce .life Great for lifestyle sites focused on wellness, hobbies or personal growth. Bloggers, wellness coaches, hobbyists What is a domain name? In order to understand what is a domain , think of it as a digital address for your website, similar to how a physical address directs people to your store or office.  It's the URL  that customers enter into their browser to find you (e.g., “www.wix.com”). This name is unique to your website and acts as a memorable identifier in the vastness of the internet. By owning a domain name, you secure a professional presence online, helping customers find you easily.  Tip: Be sure to use a trusted domain registrar to help you choose and purchase an available domain name. Ready to turn your vision into reality? Grab your free domain name  and create a website  now.  What is a domain extension? A domain name consists of two elements: the top-level domain and the second-level domain. The hierarchy of domains moves from right to left so the top-level domain (TLD)  (a.k.a. domain extension), is the last piece of text in the domain name. It’s the part of a web address that comes after the final dot. In Wix.com, for example, the top-level domain is " .com ” and the second-level domain (SLD) is “Wix.”  As more websites are created and competition for domain names grows, new domain extensions  have been introduced to give businesses more choice. In addition to learning more about what .com is , what .net is  and what .org  is, you can now choose something more unique to your industry like .photos , .shop  or .agency . Explore the most common industry domain names  to help identify patterns or trends that resonate with your target audience Learn more about how to get an .org domain. As Cameron Walker, general manager at Name.com  shares: "We're incredibly excited about the continued growth and future of domain extensions. At Name.com, we see these new options as a powerful tool for both individuals and businesses to express their unique identities and thrive." Tip:  Read more about .org vs .com  vs .net  and how to choose a domain name  that suits your business. Learn more: What's the best domain extension for a personal website? Should you choose a niche-focused domain? Is .shop a good domain for ecommerce? Cheapest domain extensions Premium domains  Premium domains are concise and memorable domains. They usually consist of only one or two short words so that they’re easy to remember and type into a browser. They are considered premium because they match exactly with business or brand names and are often rare, or already registered by another user.  These domains also tend to be very expensive. For example, in 2016, Elon Musk paid $11 million  to acquire the domain name tesla.com to match his updated Tesla branding. Learn why some business owners are wiling to pay $100+ a year for a premium domain . Expired domains  When a user purchases a domain, they are not purchasing outright ownership of that domain name indefinitely. Instead, they are paying to register the use of that domain for a specific period.  Upon expiration of this term, the domain must be renewed to maintain ownership by the same individual or entity. If a domain name is not renewed, it becomes an expired domain , available for registration by others, potentially resulting in its acquisition by a different owner.  Domain names may expire intentionally, such as when a business closes and no longer requires the domain, or inadvertently if the owner fails to pay the required renewal fee. Tip:  If you are planning to buy a new domain name , you should always check the domain history . Learn more about smart domain name management  strategies to keep your online presence strong. Popular domain extensions (TLDs) With over 1,200 possible TLDs available, you can easily craft a unique domain name that conveys your brand’s story without incurring premium prices or waiting for ideal domains to become available. Here are some of the most popular domains this year, organized by trending categories: The most common domain extensions Popular domain extensions: location-based Popular domain extensions: tech-related  Popular domain extensions: competitive positioning Popular domain extensions: news and trends Popular domain extensions: multi-purpose Popular domain extensions: influencer/community leaders Popular domain extensions: topical trends  Popular domain extensions: niche markets Popular domain extensions: restricted and sponsored The most common domain extensions .com .net .org .co   Some domain extensions never go out of style. .com is the most recognized domain globally, making it a safe and effective choice for businesses across all industries. .net, originally associated with networking services, has evolved into a versatile option for tech startups, communities and more. For non-profits and charities, .org conveys trust, credibility and a clear sense of purpose. .co has grown in popularity as a modern, startup-friendly option that's short, clean and ideal for businesses looking for something fresh and memorable. Classic extensions like these are perfect when you want your domain to be clear, credible and universally understood. Popular domain extensions: location-based . co.uk .de .ca .fr . com.au .us Whether you’re looking to be local or global, location-based TLDs (a.k.a., CCTLDs, short for “country code top-level domain” — what is a ccTLD ) instantly tell visitors where you're located or who you cater to.  Local extensions can boost local SEO and build trust with potential customers searching for services nearby. Broader options like .global and .world  showcase the expansiveness of your online reach. No matter your target market, if location matters to your business, a CCTLD extension can help you connect with the right audience online. Popular domain extensions: tech-related  .tech .digital .cloud .website .technology .ai .io Technology and the internet go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise that tech-themed extensions continue to be among the most popular domains. The use cases are variable and extensive: .tech for a cutting-edge startup, .cloud for a secure storage solution or .app for a mobile innovation.  One extension that’s seen a major rise in popularity is .ai. Originally the country code for Anguilla, .ai has become the go-to for artificial intelligence companies and startups. Its sleek, tech-forward feel helps position your brand at the forefront of innovation, especially in fast-moving fields like machine learning and automation. These extensions immediately signal an affiliation with the tech industry, fostering trust among tech-savvy visitors. And with a domain name search , finding and registering the right tech extension is simple—so your digital presence is just as innovative as your product. Read more: Domain name trends and 23 business owners share their worst domain naming mistakes Popular domain extensions: competitive positioning .top .guru .expert   .vip .pro .one .best Showcasing industry expertise or a higher level of service with popular domain extensions is an excellent way to set your business or brand apart in as little as three to four characters.  Use your domain name to communicate your competitive advantage, with TLDs like .pro for seasoned professionals or .best to convey exceptional service. These popular domain extensions prime potential customers to expect a superior experience. In a competitive market, they offer a powerful way to showcase your expertise and claim your position as the best in class. Popular domain extensions: news and trends .today .wiki .media .buzz .news .fyi Digital platforms continue to be primary hubs for news and information. According to the Pew Research Center , 57% of Americans said they prefer to get news from a digital device in 2024. It’s no surprise that domain extensions related to news, trends and timely delivery of information are among the most popular domains.  Domain extensions like .news, .today and .buzz can help convey where you fall in the industry—whether you focus on more traditional, current, viral or breaking news. By understanding the unique strengths of these TLDs, you can effectively communicate your purpose and attract a targeted audience eager for the latest news and insights. Wix makes domain transfer  easy, with free SSL, reliable hosting, privacy options and 24/7 support. Popular domain extensions: multi-purpose .site .online .website .link .xyz These extensions are versatile and instantly recognizable, strengthening your brand identity while ensuring your website is easy to find and remember. With popular domain extensions like .site or .online you can create a web address that perfectly reflects your brand.  Popular domain extensions: influencer/community leaders .club .blog .social . life.cyou .icu .bio .me The domain name landscape has evolved to reflect the growing importance of online communities and personal branding. Extensions like .life, .cyou, .club and .icu offer influencers and community leaders a way to create memorable domain names that resonate with their audience. These popular domain extensions convey a sense of connection, individuality and self-expression—all essential elements for building a strong online presence. Popular domain extensions: topical trends  .bet .live .shop .play .join .vote Domain extensions that directly reflect emerging or growing industries will continue to gain popularity. For example, the TLDs .bet and .live have seen tremendous growth. The rise of .bet coincides with the surge in online betting  as more and more states have legalized online sports betting. Domain names using the .bet extension have been sold for significant amounts, highlighting their value in the betting industry. For instance, "bet.bet" sold for $600,000 and "casino.bet" sold for $200,000 . The .live extension continues to be popular among consumers who embrace live streaming and real-time event coverage. By using .live, sites can set themselves apart from competitors by touting their timeliness directly through their domain name.  Popular domain extensions: niche markets .art .agency .store .finance .travel .legal .biz The domain name landscape is becoming increasingly specialized, with niche industry extensions gaining significant traction. Extensions like .art for a creative studio or .agency for a marketing firm act as powerful storytelling tools.  Industry-specific domain extensions concisely communicate your core business function. If connecting to customers is key to the success of your business, industry domains are one way to attract a highly targeted audience who understands your value proposition at a glance. Popular domain extensions: restricted and sponsored .edu .gov .mil Some domain extensions are reserved for specific types of organizations and require strict eligibility verification. For example, .edu is limited to accredited educational institutions, .gov is reserved for U.S. government entities and .mil is restricted to the U.S. military. Because access is limited, these extensions carry a high level of trust and credibility. Visitors immediately know they’re interacting with an official, verified organization, which makes restricted and sponsored TLDs especially powerful for institutions where authority and security matter most. Check out the new domain extensions  available on Wix and grab one that fits your idea. Popular second-level domain names (SLDs) Second-level domains are parts of a website address that comes before the top-level domain, like ".com" or " .org ". They typically represent specific entities or organizations, which offer a unique identifier within the larger domain name system. These popular SLD keywords reflect some of the same registration trends as top-level domains.  The most popular second-level domains include: .jobs: Ideal for career portals or companies seeking to showcase their open positions. .foundation: Perfect for non-profit organizations and charitable trusts. .info : A versatile option for informational websites offering resources and educational content. .home: Great for personal websites or online portfolios. .services: Clearly communicates that your website offers professional services. .tech : Instantly identifies your website with the technology industry. .health: Ideal for healthcare providers, medical institutions and health-related resources. .digital : Conveys a focus on digital products, services or marketing strategies. .life : Suitable for websites with a broad lifestyle focus, encompassing wellness, hobbies or personal growth. How to choose the right popular domain extension When it comes to domain extensions, .com  remains the most recognized and trusted. It’s associated with credibility across industries and often the first choice for businesses. But depending on your goals, other extensions can be just as effective and sometimes more strategic. Target audience:  If your business serves a specific region, a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) like .de, .co.uk or .ca helps build trust and signals a local presence to customers in that market. Branding:  Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) such as .tech, .store or .design highlight your niche or industry, making your brand stand out with a name that feels modern and relevant. Availability:  Many short or memorable names are already taken under .com, so newer extensions give you a better chance to secure a domain that fits your brand. Perception:  Some newer or less common extensions have been linked to spam, which can affect user trust. Choosing a reputable domain and registrar helps ensure your website feels credible. 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." Website examples using popular domain extensions Get inspired by these standout websites that creatively use popular domain extensions to showcase their brand, connect with their audience and stand out online: .com website example: Leanne Morgan Leanne Morgan is a successful comedian with a massive social following and a Netflix special. Her website's  clean and professional design makes it easy to navigate, with a prominent tour schedule that keeps fans engaged. The .com extension is perfect for her global audience, as it’s universally recognized and easy to remember. .org website example: Liga De Arte This 50-year-old nonprofit art institution in Puerto Rico provides scholarships and aid to talented students with limited resources. The .org extension highlights their nonprofit status, building trust and credibility with donors and supporters. Their site beautifully reflects their mission, showcasing student artwork and sharing impactful stories. .net website example: KSM Candle Co. A Baltimore-based candle and fragrance shop offering workshops, owned by a woman entrepreneur. The workshop booking system is seamlessly integrated, making it easy for customers to engage with the brand beyond just shopping. The .net extension gives them a professional yet approachable online presence, perfect for a growing small business. .co.uk website example: Three Trees Tarot A creative and mysterious tarot business thriving in the UK , generating impressive revenue. The . co.uk extension emphasizes their UK roots, appealing to local customers seeking a trusted, homegrown service. Their site’s design reflects the mystical nature of their work, drawing in curious visitors. .fr website example: Mea Book Mea Book is a French website that lets customers create unique, personalized books. The .fr extension reinforces their French identity, making it clear they cater to a local audience. A standout feature of their site is the intuitive book customization tool, which makes creating a custom book a fun and effortless experience. .ca website example: The Ice Cream Truck Kris and Carli, a husband-and-wife duo, run a nostalgic ice cream truck business in Canada , bringing joy to events and birthdays. The .ca domain extension proudly highlights their Canadian roots, helping them connect with local customers. A standout feature of their site is its vibrant and playful design, which perfectly mirrors the fun and nostalgia of their ice cream truck. .store website example: Oak and Willow Oak and Willow is an eco-friendly brand with a great success story, offering 100% sustainable products. The .store extension makes it clear that they’re an online shop, making it easy for customers to find and shop their products. A standout feature of their site is the dedicated section on their sustainability practices, which reinforces their commitment to the environment. .shop website example: Candle Bakery Candle Bakery creates candles that look like baked goods, blending creativity with craftsmanship. The .shop extension is a perfect fit, instantly signaling their focus on retail. A standout feature of their site is the incredible product photography, which makes their candles look so realistic you’d think they’re edible. .edu website example: Montana Bible College Montana Bible College offers a range of theological programs in a faith-based environment. The .edu extension establishes their credibility as a trusted educational institution. A standout feature of their site is the detailed program pages, which provide all the information prospective students need to make confident decisions. Learn more: Is Wix a domain registrar? How to search for and select a domain name No website is complete without a domain name. When it’s time to select the domain, make a list of keywords that are most relevant to your business. Include your business name, descriptors, industry keywords, etc. Once you have a strong list, you can start searching for possible domain names. Popular domain extensions can help you define your industry (.beauty, .media , .design ), instill confidence in your brand (.pro, .expert ) or build a community (.bio, .club , .group).  With a website builder like Wix, you can register a free domain for a year. You can experiment and see what’s available by searching for domain name options and using tools like the Domain Name Generator .  You may also be interested in: Why do I need a domain name? What is domain authority? Domain name and website hosting How to get an SSL certificate ccTLD meaning Popular domain extensions FAQ What is the most popular domain extension? The most popular domain extension is .com. It’s widely recognized, trusted and often the first choice for businesses, organizations and individuals. Its universal appeal makes it highly competitive, so securing a .com domain can sometimes be challenging. Which domain is trending now? Extensions like .ai, .io and .xyz are trending, particularly among startups and tech companies. These modern TLDs cater to niche audiences, such as artificial intelligence for .ai or innovation-focused ventures for .io. Their fresh appeal makes them increasingly popular alternatives to traditional options. What is the best domain extension other than .com? Other than .com, extensions like .net, .org and .io are highly regarded. .net is versatile and often chosen by tech-forward companies, while .org is trusted for nonprofit and educational purposes. For startups and innovators, .io is an excellent choice due to its modern and tech-friendly image. Is .org or .co better? Both .org and .co have their strengths, depending on your goals. .org is often associated with nonprofits, charities and educational institutions, making it ideal for building credibility in those spaces. .co, on the other hand, is often used as a shorter alternative to .com and works well for startups or businesses looking for a modern feel. What are some good and bad domain extensions? Good domain extensions are relevant, easy to remember and fit your brand, such as .com, .net and .ai for specific industries. On the other hand, extensions with reputations for spam or low credibility, like .xyz (used improperly by some), or regional TLDs misused out of context, may pose challenges. Research the reputation of an extension before choosing it. What should I do if my preferred domain name is unavailable? If your desired domain is taken, consider creative alternatives like adding keywords, hyphens or using another reputable extension such as .net or .co. You can also reach out to the current owner of the domain to negotiate a purchase. Tools like domain name generators can help you brainstorm fresh ideas if you’re stuck. Are there downsides to using less common TLDs? Using less common TLDs, like .biz or .info, may carry some risks, as they aren’t as trusted or familiar to users as .com or .org. They could also negatively impact your website’s memorability or credibility. However, newer, niche-specific TLDs like .tech or .design are gaining traction and can be excellent choices for the right audience or industry.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Choosing and owning a domain name  is an important step in in learning how to create a website . Whether you’re starting a blog , creating a personal online portfolio  or starting a business , your domain is your unique address on the web. But have you ever thought about how much that domain is worth? Understanding the value of your domain can help in selling, buying or simply managing your online assets effectively.  This guide walks you through everything you need to know—what a domain is, how its worth is determined and how to assess its value. You’ll also learn why understanding your domain’s worth is important and how you can increase its value for the future.  New to domains? Learn the basics of  what is a domain  and  how to choose a domain name . What is a domain? A domain is the unique name that represents a  web address  on the internet. It’s what people type into their browser’s search bar to visit a website, such as yourname.com. Your domain name serves as your online calling card. It reflects your brand and can significantly influence how users perceive your business—whether it’s professional, creative or credible. If you’re looking to build a website , choosing a relevant, memorable and easy-to-spell domain plays a significant role in establishing your brand’s presence. Use a  domain name generator  if you need help coming up with an idea. Already have an idea? Check the availability with a  domain name search  tool. What is domain worth? Domain worth refers to the market value of your domain name. Like a piece of real estate, its value depends on several factors, such as demand, relevance and its overall appeal to potential buyers or users. Knowing your domain's worth matters when you're considering selling or learning how to buy a domain  or when you're strategizing for your business growth.   6 domain value factors Several factors contribute to the valuation of a domain name. It’s based on structured criteria that define its desirability and usefulness. Here are the key aspects professionals and tools evaluate when determining its worth. 01. Domain age Domains that have been around longer generally hold more value. Search engines see older domains as more credible because they've had more time to establish authority. For example, a domain registered 10 years ago is often seen as more reliable than one created last month. However, age alone doesn’t guarantee high value—it often needs to work alongside the other factors below. 02. Length and brandability Shorter domains are often more valuable because they’re easier to remember and type. A shorter domain, like Coffeebeans.com , is easier to remember and type compared to something longer like Affordablecoffeebeansstore.com . Similarly, domains that are creative, unique and meaningful, such as Starbucks.com, tend to hold higher value as they effectively represent the brand.  03. Traffic and keyword relevant Domains with steady website traffic  or strong, relevant keywords hold significant value, especially for SEO benefits. For instance, a domain centered around a popular keyword like laptopdeals.com or coffeebeans.com can attract businesses and audiences due to high search demand, making it highly desirable. 04. Domain extensions Domains with popular domain extensions  like .com  generally have higher worth due to their global recognition and trust factor. Other popular TLDs include .info , .org , . co , .net , .edu, .biz  .gov and .tv . Niche extensions like .tech can hold value, but their appeal usually depends on specific industries.  Learn more: What is a TLD ? 05. Backlink profile and history High-quality backlinks from reputable websites boost a domain's value by signaling trust and relevance to search engines. However, a clean domain history  is equally important. Domains previously used for spammy or unethical practices can suffer from a damaged reputation, reducing their value. 06. Legal and trademark issues Avoid domains that could face trademark disputes. Ensuring your domain isn’t infringing on existing trademarks is key to preserving its value and usability. You can learn how to trademark a domain name to protect yourself from any issues. How to find your domain name value Understanding your domain’s worth is all about leveraging the right tools and processes.  Look at similar domains to yours Research domains similar to yours that have been sold recently. Their selling prices can provide a strong benchmark for estimating your domain’s value.  Use a domain estimation tool Online tools and appraisal services can provide instant estimates for your domain. These tools analyze elements like search volume, backlink strength and traffic data to give you a ballpark figure. While these tools offer guidance, combining their insights with market trends is crucial. Consult a professional appraiser  For a more personalized valuation, you can also consult domain name experts or professional appraisers who specialize in online assets. They often take into account not just the technical details of your domain but its broader potential in today’s online marketplace.  Why should you check your domain’s worth? Checking the worth of your domain is like taking stock of your online portfolio. By understanding its value, you can make informed decisions about whether to hold onto it, sell it or leverage it for other opportunities.  For business owners, a valuable domain can also justify higher advertising rates or partnerships. On the flip side, if you’re planning to sell your domain, knowing its worth ensures you don’t undersell an asset that could command a much higher price.  Even if you’re holding on to your domain, understanding its value can inform your business strategy. For instance, high-value domains often require additional security layers to avoid theft or misuse.   This is also important because your domain isn’t just for your website—it’s also key to learning how to create a business email address , such as info@yourname.com or contact@yourbusiness.com. Using your domain for email and exploring professional email name ideas adds credibility and trust to your communications, setting you apart from competitors who rely on generic email providers. How to increase your domain’s worth If you want to maximize your domain value, focus on strategies that enhance its relevance, strengthen its branding  and attract the right audience. By investing time and effort into these areas, you can significantly increase its worth over time. Establish quality backlinks Search engines love domains associated with credible, high-authority websites. Building backlinks improves your site’s visibility—and by extension, its perceived value. Improve SEO rankings Focus on enhancing your website’s SEO. Target relevant keywords, optimize your content and improve user experience. Higher rankings attract more traffic, which can significantly increase your domain's worth.  Secure a strong reputation Maintain a clean online presence. Ensure your domain isn’t associated with spam or shady activities and regularly monitor any external links impacting its credibility.  Focus on building trust through ethical and high-quality practices, ensuring no past penalties impact your domain. You’ve got your domain value. Now what? Once you’ve assessed your domain’s worth and worked on improving it (if necessary), it’s time to put that insight to use. If your domain’s value exceeds expectations, selling might be a smart move. Alternatively, if the value aligns with your goals, continue using it as part of your long-term strategy. For those planning to sell, connect with credible platforms and buyers to ensure a smooth transition. Whatever your plans, viewing your domain as an asset will help you make more informed decisions. Learn how to register a domain name  to get started.  Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a  Whois domain lookup .  How to check your domain worth FAQ How often should I check my domain’s worth? It is recommended to check your domain's worth periodically, especially if you are considering selling it. Valuations can fluctuate over time due to various factors such as market trends and changes in the industry. Checking your domain's worth every 6-12 months can give you a good understanding of its value and help inform any future decisions regarding your domain. How much does it cost to check a domain name’s value? The cost of checking a domain name’s value can vary depending on the method you choose. Some online tools offer free estimations, while professional appraisers may charge a fee for their services. It is important to do thorough research and consider the reputation and methodology of any tool or service before investing in an estimate.

The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   Changing your  domain name  can be a big step for your brand. Whether it’s about growth, rebranding or a new direction, especially when considering how to make a website  that stands out, this decision carries weight . Your domain name is your online identity, and transitioning to a new one can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about making the switch; it’s also about protecting the SEO value you’ve worked hard to build. Keeping your SEO rankings intact during and after a domain change is crucial to avoid drops in traffic, engagement or trust from your audience. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you manage the transition like a pro. From careful planning to smooth execution and post-launch checks, we’ll walk you through everything you need to keep your website thriving. With domain name registrations increasing by 6.1 million year over year , more brands are taking this step to shape their online identity. And you can do it too. If you're just stepping into the domain world or looking to refresh your knowledge, begin with our  domain definition . TL;DR: How to change a domain name Switching your domain name doesn’t mean starting from scratch. If you handle the transition strategically, you can preserve your hard-earned SEO rankings and maintain visibility in search. This guide walks you through every step—from choosing a new domain and redirecting pages, to communicating the change and monitoring performance after the move. Whether you're rebranding or just found a better name, this post helps you navigate the process confidently, minimizing traffic drops and making sure search engines stay in the loop. Domain name change checklist Step What to do ✓ Choose a new domain name Pick a short, memorable name that fits your brand and is available. ✓ Back up your website content Save all your site files, images and databases to ensure nothing gets lost. ✓ Research your domain host’s features Check for redirect tools, DNS access and any transfer rules. ✓ Start the migration Register your new domain and copy your website content to it. ✓ Update DNS settings Point your new domain to your hosting server to make it live. ✓ Redirect your old website Set up 301 redirects to send visitors from old URLs to your new domain. ✓ Update your website content Replace old domain links and mentions throughout your site. ✓ Inform search engines Use Google Search Console’s Change of Address tool and resubmit your sitemap. Can you change a domain name? Yes, changing your domain name is possible. Once a domain name is registered it cannot be changed. After purchase, it's stored in  Domain Name System (DNS)  databases and can no longer be modified. Existing domain names can only be transferred between different owners. To change a domain name, you will need to purchase a new one and link it to your website. Learn more about how to transfer a domain name . How to change a domain name Choose a new domain name Back up your website content Research your domain host’s features Start the migration from one domain to the other Update DNS settings Redirect your old website to your new domain name Update your website content Inform Google and other search engines about your domain name change 01. Choose a new domain name When  choosing a domain name , it's essential to consider your brand identity, business goals and SEO impact. Ideally, you want the new domain name to be as close to your old one as possible so that users can easily find and recognize your site. However, if you are rebranding or changing direction significantly, consider exploring various  types of domains  to find one that aligns with your new path.. Some tips for choosing a new domain name: Keep it short, simple and easy to remember Use keywords related to your business or industry Avoid using numbers or special characters Check for availability on social media platforms Use a relevant domain extension. 44.4% of global websites use a .com TLD, making it the most popular . As Borets Stamenov, the Co-Founder & CEO of SeekFast  shares: "Pick something you can say out loud once and people instantly remember it—no weird spellings, no dashes, nothing you have to clarify or repeat. Every extra explanation costs you traffic later." Use a  domain name generator  if you need help coming up with an idea. Already have an idea? Check the availability with a  domain name search  tool. 02. Back up your website content Before making any changes back up your website content and download it to your computer. This ensures that if anything goes wrong during the domain change process, you can easily revert to a previous version of your site. Backing up your website content ensures you can restore it if anything goes wrong during the migration process. This step is critical for safeguarding your site and avoiding potential downtime. Choosing the right approach for backing up your website content depends on several key factors: your preferred website platform, whether your site is self-hosted or managed and who your domain provider is. Take your time to understand the process—it's crucial for safeguarding your content. 03. Research your domain host’s features Before proceeding, check whether your current  website builder  or  hosting website  offers the flexibility to change your domain name. If this option isn't available, you can acquire a new domain name elsewhere and transition your website's content to your new domain. Is Wix a domain registrar?  We explain. If you’re considering transferring your domain to a new registrar, check your current provider’s transfer process and ensure your domain is unlocked and ready for migration. Learn more about  how to register a domain name  and the  top domain registrars . Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup .  04. Start the migration from one domain to the other Depending on your website platform and hosting provider, the process of migrating from one domain to another may vary. Look into the knowledge base articles of your hosting platform to learn more about the process of migrating. Additionally, some hosting providers offer tutorials or support for this specific task. Some platforms have a built-in option to easily switch domains, while others may require manual steps such as updating file names or database information. Keep both domains and hosting paid up for the entire time you are migrating.  Some migrations can take a few hours, but sometimes it can take up to five days depending on your hosting provider.  05. Update DNS settings Make sure to modify your DNS records to point it to your new domain. This step ensures your website is accessible to visitors without any issues. Depending on your domain registrar, you may need to update A records (linking your domain to an IP address), CNAME records (connecting subdomains to your main domain) or other settings like MX records for email. Follow the specific instructions from your domain registrar or hosting provider as the process can vary. Keep in mind DNS changes can take some time to fully update, so your site might not be instantly available on the new domain. Take a moment to double-check everything to ensure a smooth transition. Don’t forget about your SSL certificate either. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is crucial for encrypting data between your website and its visitors, boosting security and trust in your site. If your old domain included an SSL certificate, you’ll need to get a new one for the new domain, as SSL certificates are tied to specific domain names. The good news? Wix provides free SSL certificates for all domains hosted on their platform, so you can ensure your new domain is secure without any extra hassle. This not only safeguards your visitors’ data but also helps eliminate browser security warnings and presents a professional, trustworthy online experience. 06. Redirect your old website to your new domain name Once your new domain is up and running, it's important to redirect your old website traffic to your new domain. This ensures that users who may have bookmarked or saved links to your old domain will still be able to reach your site with minimal disruption. This step also helps search engines understand the change in domain name and update their index accordingly. A 301 permanent redirect in your hosting settings is the best way to announce your site’s move . It tells search engines the change is permanent, preserves the SEO strength of your old pages and transfers it to the new ones. Plus, it helps you avoid “404 page not found” errors and ensures a smooth experience for your visitors. Most host providers offer detailed instructions on how to implement a 301 redirect from your old domain to your new one. You'll typically find these instructions in the help section of your host provider's website or by contacting their support team. Learn more about  how to redirect a domain . 07. Update your website content Once your new domain is live, it’s crucial to ensure all website content reflects the change to avoid confusion and maintain a professional appearance. Start by updating all internal links, headers, navigation menus and any other references to the old domain, ensuring they now direct to the new domain name. Don’t forget to check less obvious areas like footer links, metadata and embedded scripts or forms that might still reference the old domain. This step is essential to prevent broken links, maintain a seamless experience for your users and avoid losing valuable traffic. Next, update your new domain across external platforms like social media profiles, email signatures and directory listings. This not only strengthens your brand identity but also helps search engines recognize and prioritize your new domain. 08. Inform Google and other search engines about your domain name change To ensure that your SEO rankings are preserved during and after the domain change, it's essential to inform Google and other search engines about your new domain. This will prompt them to update their index with your new domain name and avoid any significant drops in traffic or rankings. Changing your domain name can lead to a temporary loss of Google rankings, typically lasting at least three months, with recovery potentially taking up to six months or more . Monitor your website traffic and search engine performance closely after the change to ensure everything is functioning as expected. Use tools like Google Analytics and Search Console to track any fluctuations. Regardless of the website platform you’re using, submit a change of address request through Google Search Console to officially notify Google about the switch. Submit a new sitemap in Search Console to help search engines crawl and index your new domain more efficiently. The process is simple and ensures your site gets re-indexed quickly. Read the full step-by-step instructions for doing this on the  Google Search Console Help page . Additionally, you should also update your new domain name in other online directories or listings, such as social media profiles, business listings and online review sites. Learn more about smart domain name management  strategies to keep your online presence strong. Tips to keep your SEO rankings during a domain change Changing your domain name is a significant move that requires careful planning and execution to ensure a seamless transition. Strong SEO rankings are more important than ever, as the top organic search result receives 19 times more clicks than the top paid search result . By maintaining your rankings, you can maximize traffic and visibility during your domain change. Here's how to navigate this process smoothly, ensuring your audience stays informed and your website continues to perform well. Tell customers about the new domain Be sure to inform your customers and followers about the upcoming domain change. This can be through social media, email newsletters or a blog post on your website. The more you communicate with your audience about the change, the less likely they are to be caught off guard and potentially lose trust in your brand. Monitor traffic and rankings Seeing a slight dip in traffic at first is normal; however, if you see a significant decrease in traffic or rankings, it is likely an indication that something is wrong. Keep an eye on your website traffic and search engine rankings before, during and after the domain change. This will allow you to quickly identify any issues that may arise and address them promptly. Wix websites come with  Wix Analytics  or you can use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track your website's performance. Update internal links Make sure to update all internal links on your website to reflect the new domain name. This includes links within your content, navigation menus and footers. Don’t forget less visible areas like metadata, canonical tags, embedded forms, images and downloadable files (like PDFs). To make the process easier, use a site crawler or link checker to catch any missed links. Keeping everything consistent not only prevents broken paths but also helps preserve your SEO rankings and creates a smooth experience for your visitors. Do an audit for backlinks Backlinks are an essential factor in SEO rankings and they can be negatively affected during a domain change if not handled correctly. Use a backlink checker tool to identify all the websites linking to your old domain and reach out to them to update the links with your new domain name. This will help preserve the value of those backlinks for your website. Forward emails to your new domain If you use a custom business email address  with your old domain (like yourname@olddomain.com) , set up new email addresses under your new domain and forward messages from the old ones. This keeps communication seamless and makes sure you don’t miss anything important during the transition. Reasons to change a domain name Choosing to change the domain name could be a tough decision but here are some benefits of having a relevant and catchy domain name. Rebranding efforts One of the most common reasons for changing your domain name is to align with a rebranding effort. A new and improved brand image can bring in more business and a catchy domain name that reflects your brand's values and personality can be a valuable asset. For instance, consider a boutique coffee shop known as "BeanThereCoffee" deciding to broaden its appeal beyond coffee to include a wider range of beverages and baked goods. The owners decided to rebrand to "BeanThereCafe" to reflect the expanded focus. This strategic move not only aligns the domain name with the business's current operations but also sets the stage for future growth. Business relocation or expansion If your business is changing to a new location, it may be beneficial to change your domain name to reflect that expansion. This can make it easier for potential customers in those areas to find and remember your website. With a variety of  country code top-level domains (ccTLDs)  available, consider selecting the right one when moving abroad or expanding your business internationally. This choice can significantly enhance your online identity and connect more effectively with local audiences. It's a smart move for any website owner looking to make a mark in a new market. For instance, imagine a UK-based e-commerce brand  that has successfully captured the local market and is now looking to expand its reach into Mexico. Initially operating under a  . co.uk domain, they decided to adopt a .mx domain for their Mexican audience. Learn more: Is Wix a domain registrar? The business has evolved As your business grows, you may find that your current domain name no longer accurately represents what your brand has become. Changing to a more relevant and suitable domain name can help attract the right audience and better reflect your company's values and offerings. Consider the scenario where a tech startup originally branded itself around its flagship product, a smart home device with a  .net domain . As the company evolves, it shifts towards offering a wider array of smart technology products and solutions, not just home devices. To reflect this broader vision and appeal to a more global audience, the company decides to transition to a more inclusive and universal .tech domain. This  Top-Level Domain (TLD)  change from ".net" to ".tech" not only signifies the company's expansion beyond home gadgets but also aligns its online presence with the tech industry at large. This strategic move can enhance brand perception, making it more relevant and attractive to potential customers and partners interested in the latest technology solutions. Explore more domain extensions : .com , .info , .org , . co , .ai and country-specific extensions such as .mx , .ch,   .de , .be , .nl . or . co.uk . Legal issues or conflicts with existing domain name In some cases, businesses may be forced to change their domain name due to legal issues or conflicts with an existing domain name. This may be due to trademark infringement, copyright violations or a similar domain name being used by a competitor. In such cases, it's essential to take prompt action and change to a new domain name to avoid potential legal complications. An ideal domain name is available If you come across an ideal domain name that wasn't available when you first started building your website, it may be worth changing to it. A shorter, more memorable and relevant domain name can have a significant impact on your website's success. As Jessica Henderson, founder of Sell My House Fast Houston TX shares: “I started with a basic $12 domain name but quickly realized I needed something more memorable for our Houston market, so I now pay about $85 annually. After switching, we've seen better organic search results and clients mention finding us more easily through Google. Though I considered fancier domains costing $200 or more, I've found our current mid-range domain strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and cost-effectiveness for our local business.” Risks to change a domain name While changing your domain name can have many benefits, there are also some risks involved. It's essential to weigh these potential risks before making a decision. Loss of traffic and rankings Even with proper preparation and implementation, it may take some time for search engines to recognize and index your new domain, affecting your  domain history . This can result in a temporary drop in rankings and traffic, which can have a direct impact on your business's bottom line. Confusion for customers and partners Changing your domain name can also cause confusion for existing customers and partners who are familiar with your previous domain. They may accidentally access the old website or be unsure if they have reached the correct site. This can lead to frustration and potentially harm your brand's credibility. Technical issues During the transition process, technical issues may arise, such as broken links or missing pages. These can negatively impact user experience and can also affect search engine rankings. It's crucial to have a thorough plan in place for redirecting old URLs to their corresponding new ones and monitoring for any technical issues. Potential costs Changing your domain name may also incur additional  domain name costs , such as purchasing the new domain and updating branding materials like business cards, marketing collateral and packaging. Consider these expenses before making a decision to change your domain name. Learn more: How much does a domain name cost? Drop in brand awareness and recognition Your domain name is more than just a  URL ; it's a crucial part of your brand's identity. Changing it might lead to a temporary dip in brand recognition and awareness. This could be seen by customers as though you are  starting a business  anew. However, if a domain change is a must, you can maintain your business's trust and reputation by launching a powerful awareness campaign. This approach ensures your audience adjusts smoothly to the new name, keeping your brand's essence alive and well. What happens to your old domain? When you switch to a new domain, don’t abandon your old one. Keeping it registered and active makes sure any visitors who still access the old address are automatically redirected to your new domain. Set up 301 permanent redirects from every page on your old domain to the matching page on your new domain. This preserves your SEO value, maintains traffic and prevents broken links that could frustrate users. Most hosting providers offer tools or guides to set up these redirects, or you can configure them manually through your server settings. It’s best to keep your old domain active for at least a year after the switch. This gives search engines time to recognize the change and transfer your SEO authority while letting customers, partners and bookmarks adjust to your new web address. Get a free domain name  from Wix when you sign up for a premium plan. How to change a domain name FAQ How do I get a domain name? You can get a domain name through a registrar, which is an organization accredited by the  Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)  to sell domain names. With Wix, for example, you can search and purchase a domain name through the platform as part of their website building services. Do I need to update my branding materials after changing my domain name? Yes, you will need to update any branding materials that include your domain name, such as business cards, marketing collateral and packaging. This ensures consistency and helps avoid confusion for customers. What is the difference between a migration and a 301 redirect? A migration is the process of moving your website from one domain to another. A 301 redirect is a permanent redirect that tells search engines and browsers that your site has moved to a new location. When properly implemented, a 301 redirect ensures that visitors are automatically directed to your new domain. How long is the process to change a domain name? The process can vary depending on the size of your website and how complex it is. Generally, it can take a few weeks to fully transition to a new domain name. It's essential to have a detailed plan in place and allow enough time for any potential technical issues to be resolved. How much will it cost to change a domain name? The cost can vary depending on the registrar you choose and the availability of your desired domain name. It may also include additional expenses, such as updating branding materials. Be sure to research and budget accordingly before making a decision to change your domain name. Can I keep the same URL structure and change my domain name? Yes, it is possible to keep the same URL structure when changing your domain name. This can help minimize any potential impact on search engine rankings and user experience. However, it's essential to implement 301 redirects properly to ensure a smooth transition. Will changing my domain name affect my social media presence? Yes, changing your domain name will affect your social media presence. You will need to update the URL on all of your social media profiles and may also need to change the handle if it includes your old domain name. It's essential to communicate this change to your followers and provide them with the new  web address . Can I go back to my old domain name after changing it? In most cases, you can revert to your old domain name if necessary. However, this may have a negative impact on search engine rankings and user trust. It's best to thoroughly consider the decision before changing your domain name. Is it possible to get a domain name for free? Yes, it’s possible to get a free domain name, but there are often certain conditions attached. Many web hosting and website builder services offer free domain names as part of their packages, especially for the first year. However, these are usually tied to the hosting service, meaning you may not have full ownership or control over the domain as you would if you purchased it outright. It's important to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand what “free” really means and to determine if there might be any long-term costs involved. Learn more: How to get a free domain Is it a good idea to change a domain name? Changing a domain name can be a good idea if your current domain no longer aligns with your brand, is difficult to remember or doesn't reflect your business's offerings. However, it can also have drawbacks, such as potential loss of search engine rankings and customer confusion. To mitigate these risks, ensure a smooth transition by redirecting the old domain to the new one and updating all marketing materials.

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.