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  • What is cloud hosting? The definitive guide

    Get  free website hosting  from Wix today → Cloud hosting is a type of web hosting where your website isn’t stored on a single server but across a network of connected servers, called the “cloud.” This setup makes your site more reliable, secure and able to handle traffic spikes without going down. While no system can guarantee 100% uptime, cloud hosting, especially multi-cloud setups, keeps your website running even if one server fails. In today’s interconnected world, businesses of all sizes depend on this kind of infrastructure to maintain performance and protect their online presence. Wix hosting keeps your website running smoothly and securely from day one. With reliable performance, strong security and built-in tools for SEO, analytics and marketing, your site is ready to grow without limits. Plus 24/7 support means help is always just a click away. TL;DR: what is cloud hosting? In this guide, we explore cloud hosting, a way to store your website across a network of connected servers instead of a single server. Multi-cloud hosting goes further by using multiple servers and networks, so your site stays online even if one server fails. For anyone learning how to develop a website , choosing a multi-cloud hosting solution ensures reliability without sacrificing performance. Providers like Wix offer fully-managed multi-cloud hosting, giving you peace of mind, 24/7 uptime and faster load times for your visitors. Advantage Why it matters Scalability Your website can grow or shrink instantly to handle traffic spikes. Cloud hosting adds servers automatically so your site keeps running smoothly. Reliability With multiple servers working together, cloud hosting keeps your site online almost all the time. If one server goes down, another takes over without interruptions. Performance Servers located around the world deliver content faster to visitors, giving them a smoother, more engaging experience. Cost You only pay for what you use. Cloud hosting adapts to your traffic, so costs stay in control, unlike flat monthly fees. Security Cloud hosting protects your site and data with firewalls, SSL and access controls, keeping your website safe from attacks. Understanding your web hosting needs When it comes to choosing the best web hosting option for you, you'll need to distinguish between the different types available. Each hosting type has features and benefits which may or may not fit your needs. In the past, many first-time website creators opted for shared hosting, or when several sites are hosted on one server. This hosting option is cheap and works well for small sites, including personal websites, without large traffic numbers. Then, once the site and business start to grow, many medium-sized businesses consider a different option, like VPS hosting, or a private, dedicated space and resources on a shared server. This option is less sensitive to traffic surges on the server, but it's often more expensive than shared hosting. VPS hosting doesn't work for enterprises or busy eCommerce sites, though, and it's still not as reliable as having your own dedicated web server . Cloud hosting, on the other hand, has evolved to meet website demand of all sizes. This type of hosting or hosted service can manage sudden traffic surges, deliver 99.9% uptime (the most reliable hosting can get), has no single point of failure and scales with your website. And with some website creators—Wix included—it costs nothing. For a more in-depth look at cloud hosting vs. shared hosting , check out our guide. What is cloud hosting? Web hosting is the housing of your site on a physical server, plus the delivery of that site to a user's browser. Cloud hosting works the same way, except your site is hosted on a network of virtual servers, rather than a physical one. It's part of a wider concept of cloud computing. Even if you don’t know cloud computing by name, it’s likely you integrate its content storage and delivery capabilities into your everyday life, from browsing on our smartphones and storing work files, to accessing our favorite apps. Examples of public cloud based services and hosting providers include Microsoft Azure, IBM’s Blue Cloud, and Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud or EC2. You can learn how to host a site on any one of these public cloud platforms, although the reliability and web hosting costs can vary widely. Cloud hosting has an edge over non-cloud web hosting. It’s usually considered to be more flexible. Storage and bandwidth for a site can be added, either in response to short term needs (an eCommerce website expecting sudden and increased traffic surges during Black Friday, for example) or in response to the long-term growth of a business. How does cloud hosting work? Cloud hosting stores your website across multiple virtual servers instead of a single physical machine. When someone visits your site, the network automatically directs traffic to the server with the most available resources, ensuring your website stays online even if one server experiences a problem. Here’s how it works under the hood: Virtualization:  A software layer called a hypervisor divides physical servers into multiple virtual machines (VMs). Resource pooling:  These virtual servers draw from an underlying pool of CPU, RAM and storage across the network, allowing your site to scale as traffic increases. Redundancy:  Because your site isn’t tied to a single piece of hardware, if one physical server fails, another in the network automatically picks up the load to prevent downtime. Load balancing:  Traffic is distributed across multiple servers to maintain fast performance. Centralized management:  You can monitor and update your site without worrying about individual servers. Learn more: What is web hosting ? What is multi-cloud hosting? Multi-cloud hosting improves upon cloud hosting to give enterprise-grade performance and reliability to everyone—no matter location or business size. With multi-cloud hosting, your hosting provider connects public cloud services, like Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS) , with private and in-house servers to host a website. Plus, the provider will work to pre-empt outages and balance traffic loads between networks and servers. The main reason for using multi-cloud hosting? Reliability. You can have the peace of mind that your site is always running without having to do anything on your end. Let’s use Wix’s multi-cloud hosting as an example here, a solution which uses Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud and Wix’s in-house servers: Imagine the unthinkable happens and AWS is temporarily offline. All websites hosted on AWS would drop offline, too. But when using a multi-cloud service like Wix, another network like Google Cloud can step into the breach. In the unlikely (but not impossible) scenario that both AWS and Google Cloud are down, Wix's in-house servers would take on hosting duties for your website, so you carry on with your business. Key features of multi-cloud hosting Multiple servers: public, private and internal Multiple globally-located content delivery networks (CDN) 24/7 management and maintenance from the service provider Unlimited bandwidth including online storage that scales with the users needs Up to 99.9% uptime Automated services via remote management Free or on an ‘as used’ basis Advantages of multi-cloud hosting In 2018, Amazon lost an estimated US $100 million  after just an hour of downtime during its Prime Day Sales. In August 2020, server outages stirred Google , not only affecting the company itself, but decreasing productivity for the many businesses dependent on its ubiquitous tools. And in May 2021, another global outage temporarily brought down 10% of the internet— impacting eCommerce giants like Amazon and eBay. In the years since, cloud hosting has evolved to address potentially damaging problems such as these. We live in an interconnected world where businesses of all sizes rely on a global web infrastructure  that delivers reliability and advanced website security , as well as business continuity. And while 100% uptime is never guaranteed, multi-cloud hosting delivers something very close. If you’re starting to create your website, you'll want to consider the benefits of multi-cloud hosting. Here the advantages of multi-cloud hosting for websites of all sizes: 01. Reliability plus scalability Cloud hosting is reliable. While 100% uptime can never be a given, cloud hosting providers like Wix can deliver 99.99% uptime, giving you confidence in your business’s continuity. Cloud hosting also includes automatic site backup. Even in a highly unlikely network outage, your site will automatically restore. Reliable web hosting not only keeps your site continually online, but it also helps maintain your brand reputation through traffic upsurges and server outages. This also delivers scalability. Multi-cloud hosting relies on a network of internal, public and private clouds to manage and deliver data to websites. As your site's traffic and sales grow and your business needs change, multi-cloud hosting adapts to handle sudden traffic surges through load balancing. 'If your website can go down for a day or two from time to time, your hosting is terrible. Even mediocre hosting doesn't (or shouldn't) do that. (Also, downtime from hosters makes me appreciate well-run platforms like @Wix & co. even more)' ~ John Mueller, Google 02. Hands-off management Multi-cloud hosting is a complicated solution that requires expert management. Connecting the multiple public and private clouds is incredibly expensive, too. Thankfully, using a multi-cloud hosting service gives you all the benefits of this technology without having to invest your own time or money. In the event of an online outage, or disaster, most multi-cloud hosting providers ensure automatic website backup and recovery. This limits the downtime your site experiences, and will get your business back online faster. Tip: Hosting with Wix is a fully-managed hosting and multi-cloud service that demands nothing from you. At Wix, the aptly-named War Room works 24/7 to pre-empt potential server and network outages. This also includes additional support from Google and AWS cloud services. 03. Improved website performance Users and search engines alike demand that your site works fast. A positive user experience depends content delivered in seconds—whether that is watching a video or buying a product. Cloud hosting uses geo-clustering, or servers placed as geographically close to the user as possible through a network of CDNs. The result? Higher page load speed and improved customer engagement. Types of cloud hosting There are several common types of cloud hosting to fit different needs: Public cloud:  Your website shares resources with other users on a cloud managed by a third party. This is cost-effective and easy to set up for most businesses. Private cloud:  Your website uses a cloud environment dedicated only to your organization, offering higher security and control over data and performance. Hybrid cloud:  Combines public and private clouds, letting you keep sensitive data private while using the public cloud for scaling and less critical tasks. Managed cloud:  The provider handles all technical maintenance, including security updates, patches and backups, so you can focus on growing your business instead of managing servers. Multi-cloud:  Your website uses multiple cloud providers at once, spreading resources across networks like AWS, Google Cloud and private servers. This setup boosts reliability, performance and uptime, making it ideal for businesses that need enterprise-grade hosting. What is cloud hosting FAQ What is cloud hosting vs web hosting? Cloud hosting and web hosting differ in infrastructure. Web hosting relies on a single server to host websites, sharing resources among users. In contrast, cloud hosting uses a network of interconnected virtual and physical servers, providing scalability and flexibility. Cloud hosting allows resources to be distributed dynamically, offering better reliability and performance. What are some well known cloud hosting examples? Well-known cloud hosting providers include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) and IBM Cloud. These platforms offer a range of services, including computing power, storage and databases, enabling users to deploy and scale applications globally. Each provider has its own strengths and businesses often choose based on specific needs, preferences, and integration capabilities.

  • Wix Studio vs. Duda: what pros really need in a web platform

    Design high-end sites with efficiency on Wix Studio. Start creating today → When you’re in the business of building websites for clients, choosing the right website builder  makes all the difference. It’s not just about building design-forward sites anymore—it’s about scaling efficiently, collaborating seamlessly and delivering results that wow.  That’s why the Wix Studio  vs. Duda conversation matters. Both platforms are heavyweights in the web creation space, but take different approaches to design flexibility, workflow management and client collaboration.   In this post, we’ll compare Wix Studio and Duda across features that actually move the needle for marketers, agency owners, developers or anyone who creates websites for others professionally. From responsive design tools, CMS capabilities and dev-friendly features to the not-so-obvious stuff like pricing transparency, client handoff and ecosystem support—by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which builder is right for you. If you’re entirely new to website building, check out our guide on how to make a website from scratch . Meet the platforms: Wix Studio vs. Duda Before we get into features, let’s take a quick look at what each platform brings to the table, and who they’re really built for. Wix Studio Wix Studio, one of the  best website builders for designers , is built for professional website creators who want full creative freedom without being boxed in by code or platform limitations. It includes 375+  responsive templates , Figma integration and a powerful suite of AI tools designed to speed up your workflow from design to delivery.  The platform is especially strong for growing agencies managing multiple clients. With reusable components and templates, you can reduce production time without sacrificing quality. Developers also benefit from features like a cloud-based IDE and headless solution , all working alongside the visual builder for maximum flexibility.  For agencies that need predictable pricing, Wix Studio's all-inclusive plans (with built-in eCommerce) help eliminate surprise costs when clients are ready to scale their online stores. "When you're building a website, you need a platform that’s got your back and helps you reach your goals. That’s where Wix Studio shines. It’s made for web creators of all kinds who want an all-in-one solution with powerful tools that just work. You can get your site up and running fast, without any extra hassle or complicated steps." - Roy Wax, product marketing manager at Wix Studio Learn more about Wix Studio: Wix Studio for web designers Wix Studio for agencies Wix Studio for freelancers Duda Duda is a strong fit for agencies that prioritize white-label solutions, offering everything from custom platform domains to branded client communications, so you can present the platform as your own proprietary tool. Its zero-transaction-fee policy makes it a compelling choice for eCommerce projects where transaction costs eat into profits, especially for higher-volume online stores with tight margins.  For teams that need detailed control over client access, Duda’s granular permission system lets multiple stakeholders update specific sections of a site—while keeping the overall design intact and protected. Now that you’ve met the platforms, let’s see how they stack up feature by feature. Wix Studio vs. Duda features comparison Here’s how Wix Studio and Duda go head-to-head on the tools and features that shape your daily workflow: Infrastructure Design and creative control AI features Scalability and dynamic content Collaboration and client management Ecommerce capabilities SEO and marketing App marketplace and plugins Native deep functionality Enterprise and large-scale solutions Support and community Pricing 01. Infrastructure: how do Wix and Duda compare? Wix Studio benefits from being part of the wider Wix platform, giving it access to a fully-managed multi-cloud hosting  solution, global CDN  coverage and multiple layers of DDoS  protection. Its infrastructure is powered by Google Cloud, AWS and Fastly, ensuring high performance, speed and reliability across the board. With a 99.99% uptime  guarantee, Wix Studio supports automatic disaster recovery, so sites remain operational even during peak traffic surges. A global CDN with over 200 nodes also helps content load quickly, no matter where your visitors are located. On the website security  front, Studio includes HTTPS and automatic SSL , giving clients a strong foundation right out of the box. Duda also offers a fully-managed hosting environment, making website management  simple and reliable. It uses AWS as its hosting infrastructure and offers a 99.99% uptime guarantee. For content delivery, Duda relies on Amazon's Cloud Front CDN, helping ensure fast web performance  globally. Security features include SSL certificates, automated DDoS mitigation, data encryption and automatic data protections, offering a secure foundation for its users. Bottom line: why infrastructure matters Both platforms offer secure, reliable hosting, but Wix Studio stands out with free website hosting , extensive global CDN reach and domain name  management. For agencies managing client sites at scale, the combination of Google Cloud, AWS and Fastly ensures top-tier performance you can count on—without needing to think twice about infrastructure. "What often gets forgotten when talking about choosing a website builder is the capabilities of the infrastructure that’s promised to you—the reliability of the hosting, the level of security in place to protect your visitors’ data and, of course, your site's speed. Even if infrastructure is not the first thought that comes to mind when creating a website, if it’s not robust enough, it can cause major headaches for website owners when trying to scale a website later on." - Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead at Wix Looking to get started fast? Use our  domain name search  to secure your URL or try the domain name generator  if you need a little creative inspiration. 02. Design and creative control: how much creative control do you really get? When designing at scale, the right tools can make or break your workflow. Let’s see how Wix Studio features  compare against Duda when it comes to design flexibility, customization and speed—plus how both platforms support creative trends like the  color of the year 2025 .  Wix Studio Design  stands out with a responsive  drag-and-drop editor  that automatically adapts designs to every screen size. Designers can take advantage of built-in, code free  web animations  and effects, like web gradients , custom cursors , text masks and even WebGL effects, all available directly within the editor.  Integrations with tools like Lottie and Rive make it easy to build motion-rich, standout experiences without leaving the platform or installing anything extra.  For those who want even more creative control, customized CSS  is also available.  Wix Studio also comes with advanced layout tools—such as Section Grid, CSS Grid, Repeaters and Flexboxes—so you can structure your sites exactly the way you want. To speed things up, Wix Studio includes time-saving features like components, text themes, color palettes  and the ability to save entire site templates for future projects. Its Figma-to-Studio plugin  lets you turn your designs into fully functional websites with a single click, and with access to over 375+ fully customizable website templates , you can move fast—or go pixel-perfect. Duda also offers a responsive  drag-and-drop  editor with code-free animations and effects built-in. However, access to custom code is limited to Team plans or higher. Duda allows you to create and reuse custom sections across multiple sites, which can also be shared with team members or clients to make the site building process more efficient. While Duda does support Lottie, it does not currently offer a Figma integration. Its template library includes around 57+ templates for getting started. Bottom line: more power in the hands of designers Both platforms offer flexible, visual design tools, but when it comes to web design , Wix Studio goes further in giving professionals the freedom to build visually rich, highly customized websites from a single platform. Between its extensive template library, advanced layout capabilities, reusable design assets and Figma integration, Wix Studio delivers the kind of control and creative flow today’s pros need to stand out in the design world. Need ideas for your next project? Explore real examples and creative use cases in our Wix Studio inspiration  gallery.  03. AI features: smarter site building, start to finish AI is changing the way websites get built—from content to code structure. Let’s take a look at how Wix Studio and Duda use AI to streamline the process and power your workflow. Wix Studio AI comes packed with AI tools built to simplify your workflow, every step of the way. You can resize sections in a single click with responsive AI, generate tailored code and troubleshoot issues using the AI Code Assistant, or instantly create and edit visuals right inside the editor using  AI image generation .  Need to write optimized content? Use the AI text generator to get copy ideas fast, or turn to SEO efforts. Content-heavy sites benefit from AI-built CMS  collections, just enter a few key details and Wix Studio will auto-generate a full structure with sample items, or help you customize prebuilt collections. To help you get a head start on layout and planning, the visual sitemap and wireframe generator  lets you map out site structure and flow before jumping into design mode—so you’re always building with purpose.  Duda also provides a range of AI tools that generate copy, site-wide SEO tags and alt-text or entire site sections. Duda’s AI can instantly generate site-wide Meta Tags in a click as well as automatically add business context to future content prompts after the first input. You can also use it to optimize product and category descriptions, make quick edits, and get suggested text in seconds. While Duda offers a selection of helpful AI tools that can save designers time, Wix Studio’s suite of AI tools is far more comprehensive and spans a much greater portion of the website creation process. Its capabilities are deeply embedded throughout the workflow—from structure and design to breakpoints and content—making the entire creation process smarter, smoother and more scalable. Bottom line: built-in intelligence that goes further Both platforms offer AI tools to help streamline the website development process, but Wix Studio’s capabilities are more extensive and deeply integrated. From layout and breakpoints to visuals, content and structure, Wix Studio’ AI supports you throughout the entire workflow, making your process more efficient, scalable and future-ready. "Let's say you're a web designer, and you need to present a website structure to a client whose imagination is very lacking. Generative AI can create images and write copy for your early drafts. Instead of using placeholder text like Lorem Ipsum, you can provide a more realistic example of how the website will look." - Shachaf Rodberg, Wix marketing trend analyst See how AI can transform the way you build websites: Best AI website builders Traditional vs. AI website builder How does AI work? Types of AI 04. Scalability and dynamic content: building sites that grow with you  When projects grow in size or complexity, having a flexible content management system makes all the difference. Here’s how Wix Studio and Duda stack up when it comes to scalability , dynamic workflows and managing structured content at scale. Wix Studio CMS  is a comprehensive and built-in solution that gives you the flexibility to create content once and reuse it across pages, projects and clients. You can build dynamic landing pages , collections and repeaters—so updating content is seamless and doesn’t interfere with your existing design. The platform also supports  dynamic content  at scale with reusable assets, letting you save and repurpose components to streamline your workflow.  Use global sections to create a section once and deploy it anywhere across your site for design consistency, and manage your entire visual system in the Site Styles panel—where you can control typography , colors, page transitions and layout width. It’s a centralized way to apply cohesive design across even the most content-heavy sites.  For growing projects or clients with large databases, Wix Studio also includes AI tools that help manage and organize content more efficiently. Need even more control? Developers can tap into Wix data  API s to manage CMS content with code, and enterprise users get access to account-level CMS features for managing high-volume sites with precision. Duda includes an Internal Collections system—its version of a CMS—which allows you to create dynamic pages directly in the editor, without needing third-party integrations. Each entry in a collection gets its own unique URL, supporting SEO best practices and allowing for organized functionality. Duda offers Dynamic Page templates for common use cases, pre-connected to Internal Collections for faster setup. However, access to CMS features is limited on the Team plan, with more robust functionality reserved for Agency plans and above. Bottom line: a smarter system for scaling content While both platforms offer dynamic content capabilities, Wix Studio’s CMS is more robust, flexible and scalable across teams, use cases and skill levels. With integrated dynamic content tools, advanced design controls and developer-ready APIs, Wix Studio makes managing high-growth sites easier—whether you're building dynamic landing pages, full-scale applications or exploring the difference between static vs. dynamic websites . Learn more:  Website builder vs. CMS Best content management systems What is web design? What is CMS in web design? Wix headless CMS 05. Collaboration and client management: tools that keep you and your clients in sync  When you’re working with teams, or managing multiple clients at once, the right platform can make collaboration smoother and client handoff a breeze. Here’s how Wix Studio and Duda support your day-to-day operations behind the scenes. Wix Studio management tools include a robust set of features designed to help you work faster with your team and give clients a seamless experience.  Team features like role-based permissions, concurrent editing and on-canvas commenting make it easy to collaborate in real time. You can also speed up production by sharing design libraries, custom templates, reusable widgets and pre-built sections across team members and projects. Client management is just as thoughtful. The built-in client kit includes customizable tutorials and onboarding guides, along with automated client reports and a dedicated content mode, which lets clients update text or images without changing the layout. For large-scale clients or agency operations, Wix Studio also offers an enterprise solution, allowing client teams to manage thousands of sites, roles, permissions and SSO access from one centralized dashboard. Duda offers collaboration and client management features tailored for professional website creators. The platform's team-focused tools include customizable user permissions, site comments for contextual feedback, and asset sharing to save time and maintain brand consistency across projects. For client management, Duda provides white label solutions, automatic client reports, and native client billing tools. Clients can also be given controlled editing access to specific website sections through customizable permissions, as well as leave comments on the site for simplified communication.  Bottom line: built for teamwork, optimized for clients Both platforms offer strong tools for managing teams and clients, but Wix Studio takes the lead with its unified workspace, mobile app for on-the-go control and built-in Wix Studio management tools like the client kit and content mode. Whether you're scaling your agency or supporting a high-touch client base, Wix Studio offers more built-in flexibility to keep collaboration moving and client experiences professional. “With Wix Studio’s tools, you’re equipped to create anything from a sleek single-page site to a robust, multi-layered project for larger clients. It grows with you, making it just as effective for a solo freelancer designer as for an established agency.” - Shir Berkovitz, design team lead at Wix Studio 06. Ecommerce capabilities: sell smarter, scale easier W hether you're building an eCommerce website  for a small business, learning how to sell online  or making an online store  for a client, your platform’s eCommerce capabilities need to go beyond just “add to cart.” Here’s how Wix Studio and Duda compare when it comes to selling online. Wix Studio comes with a built-in Wix Studio eCommerce  platform, offering tools that let you create fully customized shopping experiences. From personalized product categories to tailored checkout flows and AI-generated product descriptions, everything is designed to streamline both store management and the customer journey. APIs and SPIs are available for added customization and  omnichannel retail  features let you connect stores to marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Google Shopping, Facebook and Instagram. A standout feature is the multi-vertical cart, which allows customers to add services and products to the same cart—ideal for businesses that sell both. On the backend, you’ll find over 100 secure, globally recognized payment solutions  including credit cards, Apple Pay, Tap to Pay and more. Shipping is fully customizable, and you can localize the experience with native language, currency and tax settings. The platform also includes a centralized eCommerce dashboard, streamlined order fulfillment tools and rev-share earning opportunities with Wix Payments . Duda also supports a wide range of selling use cases, including physical products, digital goods, services, tickets, vouchers and donations. Subscription options are coming soon. It offers essential store management features like inventory management , automated shipping, product filtering and search tools. Duda doesn’t charge platform transaction fees (note: payment gateway fees still apply) and it works with 74 payment gateways by default—Stripe and PayPal being the most common. For higher-tier plans, API access is available for custom payment solutions. AI features are also included to help generate product and category descriptions faster. Bottom line: built-in tools that go beyond basics While Duda offers flexibility and avoids transaction fees, Wix Studio stands out with a more powerful and all-inclusive Wix Studio eCommerce solution. With built-in selling features on every plan, deeper multichannel support and smart tools for both customization and growth, Wix Studio gives creators and agencies more ways to succeed in the ever-evolving eCommerce space. Learn more about eCommerce: What is eCommerce? How to make an eCommerce website Best eCommerce website builders Ecommerce website optimization 07. SEO and marketing: build it right, help it rank A great website isn't just about looking good—it also needs to get found. Both Wix Studio and Duda offer tools to help you climb the search rankings, but Wix Studio delivers a more integrated and scalable approach to SEO and marketing. Wix Studio equips you with a professional-grade Wix Studio SEO  toolkit that includes custom meta tags, dynamic XML  sitemaps and the ability to add custom code when needed. You also get direct connections to leading platforms like Semrush, Google Search Console, Google Merchant Center and Business Profile—making it easier to manage your entire strategy from one place. These integrations help streamline SEO and campaign workflows for agencies and advanced users. Inside the editor, you’ll find built-in keyword research tools,  SEO features recommendations and mobile optimization capabilities—all designed to save time and boost performance. The AI meta tag generator  simplifies content optimization, while the integrated  blog maker gives you everything you need to create and manage a content-rich website. And if you're just getting started, Wix Studio has your back with resources on  how to start a blog , plus 375+ customizable templates, including blog templates ,  to jumpstart your strategy. To support continuous growth, the Wix SEO Hub  offers expert-led education through tutorials, webinars and podcasts—perfect for leveling up your skills. Plus, built-in web analytics  deliver insights into website traffic, user behavior  and performance with no extra setup required. Duda also provides a solid set of SEO tools geared toward automation. Its AI features can instantly generate page titles, meta descriptions and alt-text. You’ll also get an SEO overview to flag optimization opportunities and built-in support for Google Core Web Vitals and PageSpeed. With 99.9% uptime, your content stays online and indexable. Bottom line: more power, more visibility While Duda offers a good base of SEO features, Wix Studio stands out as one of the  best website builders for SEO . With advanced SEO tools, native Wix Studio marketing integrations, keyword research and a full suite of AI and educational resources, Wix Studio is built to help you rank higher, create smarter and scale faster. "Leveraging SEO and integrating it into the website creation process is vital. Various studies have shown that organic search is the single greatest provider of traffic to websites, which is even more pronounced in the B2B context. Additionally, traffic from organic search, when done correctly, is essentially built to last (with proper maintenance over time, of course) and forms a crucial part of a site’s long-term growth." - Mordy Oberstein, head of SEO branding at Wix 08. App marketplace and plugins: customize and expand your capabilities W hen it comes to extending your site’s functionality, both Wix Studio and Duda offer flexible plugin options. Wix Studio supports two types of plugins to extend business solutions: site plugins and dashboard plugins. Site plugins add custom features to the website front end, and dashboard plugins customize the Wix Studio dashboard for a smoother user experience. Developers also have the opportunity to create and sell full-stack applications on the Wix App Market , gaining access to millions of users. These tools work hand-in-hand with  Wix Studio marketing integrations , giving you more control over everything from client management to campaign performance—no third-party patchwork required. Duda also offers a wide range of plugin support and leans heavily on this model to extend its core product. You can add both front-end and dashboard plugins, but unlike Wix Studio, many of these features are available only through paid add-ons. This can require multiple tool subscriptions to fully power your site. Developers can also build their own apps and services to sell on the Duda App Store, connecting with over 20,000 digital agencies and providing monetization opportunities. Bottom line: more built-in power with Wix Studio While both platforms support robust plugin ecosystems, Wix Studio offers more out-of-the-box flexibility with fewer add-on requirements. Its dual plugin system—plus access to the expansive Wix App Market—makes it easier to tailor both your site and dashboard experience without stacking on extra subscriptions. Add in seamless Wix Studio marketing integrations, and you get a solution that’s more unified, scalable, and easier to manage as your business or client base grows. Duda provides solid plugin functionality, but for many must-have tools, you’ll need to turn to third-party apps—often at an additional cost.  Want to tap into millions of users and expand your offering? Start by exploring how to build Wix apps  or dive straight into our guide to build Wix apps  that scale your business. 09. Native deep functionality: build smarter with dev tools and business solutions Wix Studio isn’t just for designers—it’s also a powerful platform for developers. With advanced dev tools and integrated business solutions, it helps teams build, scale and ship faster without relying on third-party workarounds. Wix Studio offers a powerful development ecosystem built to support full coding freedom. With a cloud-based IDE, AI Code Assistant and no-setup environments for development, testing and production, you can build confidently without the typical dev hurdle. Developers can leverage Wix Headless APIs to connect core business functions—like eCommerce, events and more—into any tech stack, making Wix Studio Developers  a great fit for teams seeking scalable and customizable solutions. Beyond development tools, Wix Studio business solutions  come built-in and ready to go. Whether you need event management, booking capabilities, online stores or payment processing, these features are native to the platform—no need for third-party apps or complex integrations. You get the flexibility to choose the tools you want without sacrificing ease of use. Duda also supports business features like scheduling, online stores and event tools, though many of these require third-party services or external plug-ins. Developers can build custom widgets or tap into Duda’s Partner API to create white-labeled tools tailored to client needs. Duda also offers headless content management, particularly for blogs, with support for full CRUD operations and automation via API—no interface needed. Webhooks allow real-time updates, while the Connected Content Library syncs external data sources to Duda widgets for consistent, centralized content. Bottom line: flexibility meets functionality  Both platforms support developers—but Wix Studio makes it easier to build at scale. With built-in business tools, robust dev features and fewer dependencies on third parties, Wix Studio offers a streamlined way to create fully customized, powerful digital experiences that grow with your needs. Want to see it in action?   Watch this Wix Studio tutorial on how to work with plugins and slots in Wix Studio and learn how to extend your site’s functionality with total flexibility. 10. Enterprise and large-scale solutions: build to scale W hen you're managing multiple sites or operating at scale, the right platform makes all the difference. Both Wix Studio and Duda offer enterprise-level solutions—but Wix Studio brings extra firepower to the table. Let’s take a look. Wix Studio Enterprise  is built specifically for large organizations that need power, flexibility and control. It supports multi-site management with tiered permissions at the account, group or site level for everything from CMS access and asset libraries to analytics and performance monitoring. You'll get built-in enterprise-grade security, a centralized dashboard for full visibility and 24/7 priority support, along with a dedicated account manager to help streamline your operations. The platform also includes advanced design tools and customizable templates to support high-impact, fully branded site creation at scale. For teams looking to upskill, the  Wix Studio Certification  program is another standout—offering training and validation for professionals building at an enterprise level. Duda also supports large-scale operations and targets agencies, franchises and teams with its own enterprise offering. One of its biggest strengths is comprehensive white labeling, which allows agencies to fully rebrand the platform. Duda includes multi-site management, team collaboration features, enterprise security and personal support from a dedicated account manager. Like Wix Studio, it offers 24/7 VIP support. Bottom line: enterprise, elevated Both platforms cater to high-volume, enterprise-grade needs. But Wix Studio Enterprise sets itself apart with a powerful blend of advanced design tools, built-in CMS and analytics tiering and deep customization options—all designed to keep your brand consistent and your workflows scalable. Add to that the professional growth that comes with Wix Studio Certification, and it’s a platform built not just for business, but for long-term success. 11. Support and community: because going at it alone shouldn’t be part of the plan G reat tools are only as powerful as the support behind them—and that’s where Wix Studio shines. You’ll get 24/7 customer service in English, with additional language support in Spanish, Portuguese and French during set hours. There’s also an AI-powered chatbot for instant help and a Customer Care ticket log so you can keep tabs on past interactions. If you're an agency or freelancer, applying to the Wix Studio Partner Program  unlocks priority support and exclusive resources. Wix Studio goes beyond support with a connected ecosystem of learning and collaboration. Join the Wix Studio Community  to connect with other designers, developers and creators, or dive into the Wix Studio Academy  to access expert-led courses, how-tos and certifications designed to elevate your skill set. Duda provides multi-channel support with a web form, phone, and live chat available Monday through Friday from 12 AM to 6 PM PST, including specific language sessions in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, while offering extended 24/5 support for Team and Agency plans and 24/7 live-agent chat for Enterprise customers.  Users can submit support tickets via the portal to track previous interactions and resolve issues through live chat or callback requests, with the support team handling technical inquiries related to the Duda Editor, bug reports, API guidance, and account management.  Duda also offers additional resources through its Community, University, Experts, and Developer portals. Bottom line: your built-in support team Wix Studio gives you more than answers—it gives you a community. Between 24/7 support, partner perks and ongoing learning through the Academy, you’ve got the tools (and the people) to scale confidently and creatively. 12. Pricing: plans built for how you work Whether you're testing the waters or managing multiple clients, both platforms offer flexibility—but the details matter. Wix Studio offers four plan tiers—plus a free plan that you can use indefinitely. Paid plans start at $19/month (billed annually) for Basic and go up to $159/month for Elite, with an Enterprise tier available on request. Each paid plan includes a free domain for the first year and scales with your needs: more CMS items, more collaborators, more storage—and integrated eCommerce starting at the Standard level. Duda also provides four annual plans, plus a customizable enterprise option. While all plans come with a free domain for one year, AI tools and email support, eCommerce features are sold as separate add-ons. These range from $7 to $45/month, billed annually. Both platforms offer monthly billing at a higher cost. But here’s a key difference: Wix Studio includes a permanent free plan, so you can build for clients before you ever commit. Duda, on the other hand, offers a 14-day free trial—after that, you’ll need to pick a plan. Wix Studio plans (billed annually): Free plan available with limited features Plan Price Includes Basic $19/month Free domain for 1 year Site analytics 1,500 CMS items 3 site collaborators 10 GB media storage Standard $27/month Everything in Basic, plus: Accept payments 4,000 CMS items 5 site collaborators 50 GB media storage Plus $34/month Everything in Standard, plus: Priority support 20,000 CMS items 10 site collaborators  120 GB media storage Elite $159/month Everything in Plus, and: Dedicated data infrastructure  Custom analytics 500,000 CMS items 100 site collaborators  Unlimited media storage *Prices displayed are for U.S. customers. Duda plans (billed annually): Free 14-day trial, eCommerce sold separately Plan Price Includes Basic $19/month Free domain for 1 year  Email support AI tools Unlimited Storage and bandwidth Team $29/month Everything in Basic, plus: 4 team members Dynamic pages (1 internal collection per site, up to 10 rows) Client management Agency  $52/month Everything in Team, plus: Priority support Dynamic pages with internal collections (unlimited) 6 team members Site export White label  $149/month Everything in Agency, plus: Ful white label Custom platform domain Integrate external datasets Branded client communication White label support portal Branded client login screen Analytics  Custom Custom 24x7 Support 99.99% uptime SLA Unlimited team members Integrate external datasets DIY/Simple Editor Full access to Duda’s API Single-Sign-On (SSO) Native Widget Builder Dedicated account manager Enterprise-grade security AI Text, SEO and Building Assistant *Prices displayed are for U.S. customers. Bottom line: flexible pricing, different approaches Wix Studio includes eCommerce out of the box and offers a free plan you can use indefinitely—ideal for web creators, freelancers, agencies or businesses that want to start building before committing. Duda's pricing leans heavier on add-ons and trials, so while it's robust, the real cost depends on what extras you need. Editor’s note: all pricing and information are current as of 04/20/2025. Curious how Wix Studio stacks up against other platforms? Explore more comparisons: Wix Studio vs. Shopify  | Wix Studio vs. Framer  |  Wix Studio vs. Elementor  | Wix Studio vs. Webflow Differences between Wix Studio and Duda When it comes to building sites for clients, the details matter. From design flexibility to CMS control, here’s how Wix Studio and Duda compare across the features that make the biggest impact. Here’s a side-by-side look at what sets each platform apart—so you can choose the right fit for your workflow and clients. Feature Wix Studio Duda Ease of use Responsive drag-and-drop editor AI-powered tools like responsive AI, code assistant Visual sitemap and wireframe generator to streamline workflows Responsive drag-and-drop editor Some AI tools for content generation AI site section creation Design flexibility 375+ highly customizable templates Figma integration Code-free animations and effects Custom CSS capabilities Reusable components, text themes and color palettes 57+ templates No Figma integration Code-free animations Custom sections for reuse Code customization only available on Team plans and higher Infrastructure Multi-cloud hosting (Google Cloud, AWS, Fastly) 99.99% uptime guarantee Global CDN with 200+ nodes Automatic disaster recovery AWS hosting infrastructure Amazon CloudFront CDN 99.9% uptime guarantee Automated DDoS mitigation AI capabilities Responsive AI for section adjustments AI Code Assistant Image generation tool AI text generator Meta Tag creator for SEO AI-built CMS collections Visual Sitemap and Wireframe Generator AI tools for generating copy SEO tags and alt-text generation Site section creation Description optimization tools CMS & dynamic content Integrated CMS available on all plans Create dynamic pages, collections and repeaters AI-powered database management Account-level CMS for enterprise customers Wix Data APIs for code management Internal Collections CMS only available on Team plans and above Restricted capabilities on Team tier Dynamic Page templates for common use cases Expanded options exclusively for Agency and higher plans Collaboration Role-based permissions Concurrent creation On-canvas commenting Shared design assets and templates Client content mode Enterprise solution with centralized dashboard Customizable user permissions Site comments for contextual feedback Asset sharing Extensive white labeling capabilities Granular permission controls Native client billing tools Ecommerce Built-in on all plans Omni selling retail features (Amazon, eBay, Google Shopping, social media) 100+ payment providers Customizable shipping options Transaction fees apply Unified eCommerce dashboard Zero transaction fees Requires separate subscription add-ons ($7-$45/month) 74 payment providers Support for physical products, digital goods, services, tickets Integrates with Stripe and PayPal by default SEO & marketing Advanced toolkit with keyword research tools Semrush and Google integrations AI Meta Tag Generator Integrated blogging system SEO Hub with educational resources Mobile optimization features Site analytics Basic SEO tools AI-generated meta content SEO overview highlighting optimization opportunities Core Web Vitals optimization App marketplace Two types of plugins (Site and Dashboard) Option to create and sell full-stack applications Integrated app development environment Robust plugin ecosystem Requires multiple tool subscriptions App development opportunities Connected Content Library Native functionality Built-in business solutions Cloud-based IDE AI Code Assistant Headless APIs for eCommerce, event management No-setup development environments Requires third-party services or plugins for business solutions Partner API integration Headless content management capabilities Webhooks for real-time automation Pricing $19−$159/month with eCommerce included Permanent free plan available Free domain for one year Increasing storage, CMS items and collaborators with each tier $19−$149/month plus separate eCommerce add-ons 14-day free trial Free domain for one year Team collaboration features only on higher-tier plans Support 24/7 customer service in English Other languages during set hours AI chatbot assistance Partner Program for priority support Community forum and Academy resources Support Monday-Friday (12 AM-6 PM PST) 24/5 for Team/Agency plans 24/7 for Enterprise customers only Community, University, Experts and Developer portals Multi-channel support (web form, phone, live chat) Making your decision: Wix Studio vs. Duda Choosing the right platform comes down to the way you work—and what you want to build. Both Wix Studio and Duda offer powerful solutions for professionals creating websites for clients. But Wix Studio takes it a step further with unmatched design flexibility, built-in AI tools and deeply integrated business features—all within one seamless workspace. Whether you're flying solo, growing a team or managing work at scale, Wix Studio delivers a rare combination of creative freedom and operational efficiency that’s built for how modern web pros work. Wix Studio vs. Duda FAQ What's the main difference between Wix Studio and Duda? The main difference lies in their approach to web creation. Wix Studio is an industry leader when it comes to design tools and capabilities and is built specifically for professional web creators who need full creative and technical control. Its design environment is both powerful and flexible, allowing teams to create highly custom websites with pixel-perfect precision and advanced layout tools. It also offers comprehensive AI tools and integrations. In contrast, Duda caters to those needing effective white-label solutions with cost control on transaction fees (although users will have to pay for eCommerce support and often rely on third-party integrations), but may face limitations in design customization, AI functionality and integrations.  Explore the differences between Wix vs. Wix Studio to discover the best platform for your needs. Do professionals use Wix Studio? Absolutely—yes, professionals use Wix Studio. Wix Studio was built for  professionals: agencies, freelancers, web creators and developers who manage multiple client sites and need full creative control. It combines the ease of visual editing with the flexibility of advanced dev tools like custom code, APIs and responsive design at the breakpoint level. Top features that attract professionals include: Scalable site infrastructure  for complex builds Collaboration tools  that streamline team workflows and client feedback Integrated business solutions  (like CMS, eCommerce, booking and more) Dev mode  for working with custom code, external data sources and APIs Multi-site management  that simplifies large-scale projects Plus, the platform keeps evolving with feedback from its pro community—so designers and developers can keep pushing creative boundaries without leaving the Studio ecosystem. So, whether you’re building a sleek portfolio or managing 100+ client sites, Wix Studio is made to handle the job. Which platform offers better value for money: Wix Studio or Duda? When it comes to value for money, Wix Studio generally offers more flexibility and built-in features for the price, especially if you're an agency or freelancer managing multiple clients. With its all-inclusive pricing (starting at $19/month) that includes eCommerce functionality, advanced design tools and AI capabilities. Duda's base pricing is comparable ($19-$149/month) but requires additional payments for eCommerce functionality ($7-$45/month extra), potentially making it more expensive for full-featured sites. How do the AI capabilities compare between Wix Studio and Duda? Wix Studio offers a more comprehensive AI toolkit, including responsive AI for layout adjustments, AI Code Assistant, image generation, text generation, meta tag creation, CMS building and visual sitemap generation. Duda provides some AI tools for generating copy, SEO tags and site sections, but with less depth and variety compared to Wix Studio. Which platform is better for client collaboration: Wix Studio or Duda? Both platforms offer strong collaboration features. Wix Studio provides a thorough client kit, automated reports, role-based permissions, concurrent creation, on-canvas commenting and a client content mode that prevents design changes. Duda emphasizes white-labeling and granular permission controls. In short, Wix Studio emphasizes its unified workspace, mobile app for on-the-go management and comprehensive Client Kit, while Duda stands out for its extensive white labeling capabilities. Check out some of the best website builders by niche: Best restaurant website builders Best real estate website builders Best website builders for writers Best hotel website builders Best one page website builders Best resume website builders Free website builders Best website builders for musicians Best website builders for freelancers Best website builders for non profits Best website builders for small businesses Best website builders for service businesses Salon website builders Membership website builders Best website builders for creatives Construction website builders Best website builders for graphic designers Best website builders for law firms Best website builders for consultants Best website builders for plumbers Traditional vs AI website builders Booking website builders Best website builders Canada Best website builders for cleaning businesses Vacation rental website builders Best mobile website builders Easiest website builders Can I create custom functionality for clients on Wix Studio and Duda? Yes, but with different approaches. Wix Studio offers a more developer-friendly environment with a cloud-based IDE, AI Code Assistant and headless APIs for custom development. Duda provides Partner API integration and webhooks but generally relies more on third-party plugins for extended functionality.

  • How to create a website from scratch in 10 steps (for beginners)

    Turn your ideas into a website →   |  Claim your domain →  Want to learn how to build a website from scratch? The fastest and most beginner-friendly way is to use a no-coding website builder , which gives you all the tools you need to design, customize and publish a site. Looking to create a website fast? If you're looking to create a stunning website fast without coding, there are several ways you can go about it. A free website builder like Wix is a great place to start, as you can choose from over 2,000 pre-designed and highly customizable website templates to easily build a site. Choose your website template by website type, functionality or your business industry. TL;DR: How to create a website To learn how to create a website from scratch, start by defining your website’s purpose and choosing a platform. Next, register your domain , secure hosting and design your site using a customizable template, no coding required. Add content and functionality, test everything across devices and finally, launch your website, promote it to attract visitors and maintain it to keep it up to date. We'll walk you through each step of the process, from planning your site to launching it live. You’ll also get a complete website launch checklist  to make sure every detail is ready before you hit publish. Learn more: What is a Wix website? How to make a website from scratch Define your website's purpose Choose your website builder Pick and register a domain name Choose a web hosting plan Pick and customize your template Build your site structure Add useful pages Create engaging content Test and launch Maintain and promote your website 01. Define your website's purpose Every great site starts with a clear website purpose . Are you selling products, sharing your expertise, building a community or showing off your work? Your goal will shape every decision, from layout to content to navigation, keeping your site focused and intentional. Know your audience Understanding your audience is just as important. Who’s visiting your site? What are they looking for? Create personas based on their demographics, interests and challenges. Gather insights through surveys, interviews or even casual chats. The better you know your visitors, the more engaging and relevant your site will be. Learn from competitors Take a peek at your competitors. Check out websites in your space and note what works, what doesn’t and where there’s room for improvement. Then, think about how your site can bring something fresh to the table. Whether it’s a product, service or unique approach, make sure your value is crystal clear. Set measurable website goals Set goals you can measure. Whether it’s traffic, engagement, sign-ups or sales, decide which metrics matter most and use them to guide your strategy. These goals will help you stay on track and see what’s working. Types of websites to consider: Depending on your goals, here are some types of websites you might want to create: Business and eCommerce websites : Sell products, book services or share your offerings. Include clear pricing, testimonials, contact options and chat tools to help visitors take action. Blog:  Share your stories, expertise or insights to build a loyal audience. Organize posts into categories, add visuals and make it easy for readers to subscribe. Creative and portfolio websites : Show your work with galleries, blogs and social links. Perfect for photographers, designers, writers and artists. Content and media: Share videos, podcasts or stories. Organized navigation and search tools make it easy for visitors to explore. Educational: Offer lessons, PDFs , videos or certifications. Use log-ins to track progress and blogs or FAQs to expand learning. Personal and lifestyle: Share your stories, events or portfolio. Add galleries, blogs and social links to make your site feel personal and inviting. Non-profit websites : For schools, nonprofits or government organizations. Add features like donations, volunteer sign-ups, livestreams or event details. Some websites juggle more than one purpose, but your main goal should always take the lead. Take Cleverchefs, for example. Their site tells their brand story while also driving bookings. The design and content reflect their values, attracting clients who connect with their vibe. Expert tip from Ian Lawson, Head of User Experience at Slickplan : “Before jumping into design, take time to understand who your audience is and how they look for information. The most successful websites are built around clear user goals—letting that insight guide everything from site structure to navigation to content hierarchy ensures visitors find what they need in as few clicks as possible.” 02. Choose your website builder Choosing the right website builder sets the foundation for your site. The right platform helps you get online quickly without worrying about technical hurdles so you can focus on building your business. Everything you need to design, personalize, publish and manage your site is in one place, making the process straightforward and manageable. One strong recommendation is to look for a builder that includes domain registration and hosting. A custom domain makes your site look professional and easier to remember, while built-in web hosting keeps your pages fast and reliable without extra setup.  Templates and design tools give you flexibility to match your brand. A drag-and-drop website builder  lets you position text, images and buttons exactly where you want and adjust colors, fonts and layouts for a cohesive look. This makes it easier  to create a visually consistent, user-friendly website that reflects your business or project. Built-in business and marketing tools also help you reach your goals faster. From email campaigns and SEO tools to online stores, booking systems and membership options, you can manage everything in one place. AI-powered features, including an AI store builder , can also speed up building and managing your site, helping you generate content, design pages and organize your site with less effort while keeping it unique. Before picking a platform, compare features, ease of use, pricing and integrations. Make sure it fits your workflow and goals so you can spend your time creating, not troubleshooting. The right choice gives you a smooth experience and a website that grows with you. Sign up for Wix today Key factors to consider: Factor What to look for How Wix helps Customizability Flexible layouts, templates, AI-assisted site creation Wix lets you adjust layouts, colors, fonts and images, and use AI to create a fully functional site. Business tools eCommerce, scheduling, inventory, CRM, automation Wix helps you sell products, manage bookings, track inventory and automate tasks. AI capabilities AI for site creation, content, marketing, support Wix’s AI website builder helps you build pages, generate content and organize your site quickly. Third-party integrations Apps, sales channels, marketing tools Wix App Market and Wix Headless let you integrate apps, sales channels and other services seamlessly. Security SSL certificates, backups, monitoring Wix includes automatic backups, secure hosting and SSL certificates to protect your site and visitors. Performance CDNs, optimized code, fast loading Wix ensures fast loading with optimized code and a global CDN, improving user experience and SEO. Support 24/7 help, tutorials, guides Wix offers round-the-clock support, tutorials and guides to help you resolve issues and learn as you build. Expert tip from Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead (outbound) at Wix.com: "As a creator or entrepreneur, you're often wearing multiple hats. You're designing the website, you're optimizing for SEO. This means you need a website builder that makes it easy and very learnable for you to do all of those things, on the same platform and still deliver as if working with experts in those fields." Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. Wix lets you customize and launch a professional website in minutes. Wix simplifies the process so you can focus on what matters most, bringing your ideas to life. Start today and create the website you’ve always wanted. 03. Pick and register a domain name Choosing your domain name  is one of the most exciting steps in building your website. Your domain is your web address, the URL  visitors type to find your site. Behind the scenes, the Domain Name System  (DNS) translates that name into your site’s IP address  so your website loads instantly for anyone who visits. A strong domain name is unique, memorable and easy to spell. It should reflect your brand, tell your story and resonate with your audience. Avoid long or complicated names, numbers or special characters. Use Wix’s domain name generator  for creative ideas and to quickly check availability. Next, claim your domain through a registrar. Domains must be officially registered to exist online, usually for a year or more. Domain pricing  covers DNS infrastructure and services.Many website builders, including Wix, include a free domain  with paid plans, giving you a polished professional web address like yourbusiness.com . Think about the right domain extension  for your website, such as .com, .co, .store, .info or .digital. Choose one that fits your brand and audience. A custom domain builds trust, improves credibility and can help your site rank better in search engines. To register a domain on Wix: Brainstorm 5–10 short, memorable names that are easy to spell Check availability using Wix’s domain name search Choose a domain extension that fits your brand, like  .com, .net or .org   Register your domain for at least one year or claim a free domain with a Wix paid plan Connect the domain to yo ur website through your Wix dashboard and update DNS settings Ready to get a website domain name ? Get started with Wix today. 04. Choose a web hosting plan Web hosting stores your site’s files, images and content on a server so visitors can access your site online. Every time someone enters your URL, the server delivers your site instantly. The simplest way to get started is to use a website builder with built-in hosting. Wix includes free secure hosting with every site, so you don’t need to compare separate hosting plans or manage extra settings. This lets you focus entirely on building your website. When evaluating hosting, consider uptime, security, speed and reliability. Wix’s multi-cloud hosting and global CDN deliver your site content quickly and seamlessly to visitors around the world, keeping your site accessible without interruptions. Hosting options at a glance Hosting type Best for Key benefits Shared hosting Beginners, small websites Affordable, easy setup VPS hosting Growing businesses More resources, better performance Cloud hosting High traffic sites Scalable, handles traffic spikes Dedicated hosting Large enterprises Full control, maximum speed and security 05. Pick and customize your template Your website’s visual layout is one of the most important factors in how visitors perceive your business.  Half of consumers say design heavily influences their opinion of a company , so take the time to explore your options before committing to a style. To get started, take a look at professional  website templates  to see which one fits your vision best.  Templates give you a good design foundation, but you have full control to make it your own. You can adjust layouts, section order, spacing, fonts, colors, buttons, images, galleries, headers, footers, menus, backgrounds and even animations. Every element can be customized so your site reflects your brand and feels consistent from top to bottom. Next, gather inspiration for your website. Check competitor websites to see what works in your industry and explore visual platforms like Pinterest and Instagram to discover popular fonts, colors and design styles. Focus on understanding trends rather than copying them, and make sure your choices align with your audience’s preferences. Your template is a flexible website design  tool you can shape to fit your brand. Adjust layouts, colors, fonts and images to create the tone that feels right. Branded design shows confidence, professionalism and value, helping visitors immediately connect with your business. Every detail matters, from page speed to visual hierarchy, to make sure your site stands out and feels trustworthy. If designing a website from scratch feels overwhelming, an AI website builder can simplify the process. With Wix, you can answer a few simple questions about your goals and the AI website builder will generate a fully functional, custom website in minutes. From there, you can fine-tune the design, add your own content and adjust pages and widgets to fit your vision. Action steps: Browse website templates  that fit your style and goals Collect inspiration from competitor sites and visual platforms Customize your template to reflect your brand’s personality and values Decide on fonts, colors and layouts that match your audience Consider using AI to create a starting point and customize from there Need a website fast?  Let AI do the heavy lifting. With Wix’s   AI website builder , you can create and launch a complete website in just minutes. Learn more:   How to make a website fast How to vibe code a website Expert tip from H ani Safe, product lead (Showcase) at Wix: " Beautiful templates let creators bring their stories to life, ensuring that every website not only stands out for its aesthetic appeal but also tells a compelling story about the creator behind it." Looking for   portfolio templates ,   model portfolio examples  or templates for an  online store ? Explore dozens of customizable options that fit your style. From   simple website templates  to more advanced designs, there's something for every idea and every vision. You can discover more in this piece: Should I use a template to make a website ? Or check out these templates to get building: Website templates for designers Portfolio templates Landing page templates Blog templates 06. Build your site structure A beautiful website won’t succeed if visitors can’t navigate it easily. Start with a clear site structure by creating a sitemap, the blueprint for your pages. Organize content into logical sections that match your goals and audience and update it as you add or move content. Wix, for example, does this automatically. Next, optimize your navigation menu. Aim to let visitors reach any page in three clicks or less. Prioritize key pages like your homepage, services, products and contact information. Use clear categories and subcategories, consider mega menus for large sites or anchor menus for smaller ones and include a clickable logo to return visitors to the homepage. In the Wix editor, add a menu by clicking the “+” on the side panel, selecting “Menu & Anchor” and choosing your style. Expert tip from Adi Huri, product manager at WOW for Wix.com : "Think of the menu as the map of your website. Adding the right pages in the right order can make it the heart of your site’s success." Highlight your most important content, including services, pricing and contact details, and use clear calls to action to guide visitors toward sign-ups, bookings or purchases. Use the footer for extra links, social profiles or legal pages. In Wix, for example, you can drag and drop elements into the footer and resize them as needed. Plan for growth with flexible layouts that make adding new pages or features easy. Regularly review your site structure and navigation to keep it organized and user friendly. A clear structure helps visitors find what they need quickly and encourages engagement by guiding users to explore and take action. Site structure checklist  Step Action Wix tip Sitemap Map all your pages into logical sections Wix automatically updates your sitemap Navigation menu Link main pages, use categories, make logo clickable Use “Menu & Anchor” in the Wix editor Key content Highlight services, pricing, contact info, use CTAs Track engagement with Wix Analytics Footer Add extra links, contact info, social profiles Drag and drop elements in Wix editor Scalability Use flexible layouts, plan for growth Review site structure regularly as you add pages 07. Add useful pages Once you’ve mapped out what pages you want on your site, it’s time to create them. Here’s a quick step-by-step of how to build useful and engaging pages and how to do it in the Wix editor. Open the Page Manager: Click the "Pages & Menu" icon in the left side panel to access the Page Manager. Add page: Click the blue "+ Add Page" button to create a new page and click on whatever template suits your needs. Name your page: Once the page is added to your site, the page name will be highlighted in the left side panel for you to edit. Customize: Customize and build the newly created page by adding your content, adjusting the layout and refining the design. Manage pages: Drag and drop pages in the side panel to rearrange them or click on the ellipsis icon to the right of each page title to duplicate, delete, rename, hide and more. Subpages: Create dropdown menus by adding subpages to your main pages, enhancing site navigation. Save and publish: Save your work regularly and, when ready, hit the "Publish" button to make your changes live on your website. These are the essential web pages pages that every website needs: An inviting  homepage . This is the face of your website, which means that you have to make it beautiful, yet informational. You should strive to present all the crucial elements right from the get-go. This way, clients will instantly understand who you are and what you do. A shop or gallery. This is the center of your site where visitors can browse through your products or services. Create product listings, manage inventory and process transactions all from one centralized dashboard. Dedicate time to write product descriptions that will grab potential customers’ attention. The same goes for your product photography to ensure that your items are displayed in their very best light. A personable About  page.  Use this page as your  online business card . It’s the spot where you can present who you are, what you stand for, your strengths, values and any other crucial information you think your visitors should know about your team and your business. An easy-to-find contact section. Don’t leave your site visitors astray by making them search for your contact information. Dedicate a page to list contact numbers, email, social links and any other way users can get in touch with you. In addition, it’s a good practice to add your essential contact details on your website footer. An engaging blog.  By  starting a blog , you’ll be able to continuously add regular and fresh content to your website. You’ll have the chance to establish yourself as an expert in your field while giving your SEO efforts a well-deserved boost.  Give our blog maker a go , when yo u're ready to start. You can also consider adding these pages: Membership area Online courses FAQ page Online booking system Testimonials page Custom 404 page 08. Create engaging website content Your website content should grab attention and keep visitors interested. To do that, focus on its variety, clarity and structure. Mix different content types—text, photos, videos and animations—to make your site more dynamic. Keep your pages organized and place your most important content above the fold so visitors immediately see your value. Structure matters. Use clear headers, concise text and visuals like images or infographics to make your content easy to scan. Avoid overloading your site with too many effects or long blocks of text. Expert tip from Amanda Weiner, CRO expert at Wix.com: " Site hierarchy and the information you provide your visitors with is more than just how your site looks. It  directly impacts how many visitors ultimately buy your products. Be clear about your offerings through your content, visuals and buttons right from the get go. " Once your c ontent is ready, make sure it’s optimized for search engines. Every Wix site includes built-in Wix SEO  tools that guide you in optimizing your pages to improve their visibility and reach more people online.  Nearly 70%  of web traffic now comes from phones and tablets, so your content also needs to be optimized for mobile mobile. Wix automatically optimizes your site for mobile, ensuring fast loading and a consistent experience across devices. Wix website templates are also all mobile-friendly by default. What makes a great website What it includes Why it matters Clear purpose Helps visitors quickly understand what your site offers Easy navigation Makes it easy for people to find what they need Fast load time Keeps visitors engaged Consistent branding Builds trust and makes your site look professional High-quality content Provides value and encourages action Strong visual website design Captures attention and reflects your unique brand SEO optimization Helps your site be better positioned to show up when people search Clear calls to action Guides visitors to easily take action on your website, such as contacting you Security and accessibility Protects your site and data, as well as that of your users. Means your website is accessible to all. 09. Test and launch your website Before publishing your website, make sure it’s ready by following a few key steps : Preview your site Start by using Wix’s Site Preview mode to experience your site as a visitor would, checking navigation, layout and visual design. Proofread all text for spelling, grammar and clarity to make a professional impression. Test functionality Next, test every page, link, form, button and embedded media on both desktop and mobile to ensure your site works smoothly across devices. Cross-browser check Don’t forget to check your site on popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Safari to make sure it displays correctly for all users.  Get feedback Once your site passes these checks, ask a friend, colleague or team member to navigate it and provide feedback on usability, clarity and design effectiveness. Use their input to make any final tweaks. When your site is ready to go live, hit Publish and make sure it can be found on search engines. Use Google Search Console to submit your site and confirm that Google is indexing your pages. In your Wix SEO  Settings, turn on the “Let search engines index your site” toggle so search engines like Google and Bing can crawl your content. For step-by-step guidance on improving your site’s visibility, use the Wix SEO Setup Checklist to optimize your site for search results. 10. Maintain and promote your website Update your website regularly by adding new content and keeping existing pages current to improve navigation, SEO and overall performance. Track performance You can track which content performs best with   Wix Analytics  and use these insights to guide updates, promotion and overall improvements. Listen to your audience Listen to your audience through surveys, forms or conversations to understand what users value most. Combine their feedback with your analytics to refine your website’s navigation, content and features. Protect your site Keep your website secure with Wix’s built-in, enterprise‑grade protection. Wix’s robust website infrastructure includes monitoring of your site 24/7 for threats and safeguards your data with SSL/TLS encryption. Tools like two‑step verification and user roles help you control access and keep your site safe. Wix also makes it easy to recover your work if something goes wrong. Auto backups automatically save previous versions of your site, so you can restore them at any time. You can also duplicate your site for manual backups, giving you full control over preserving your content and design. Drive traffic to your website Promote your website on social media, through email marketing, guest blogging or advertising campaigns. Focus on the platforms where your audience is most active and adapt your content accordingly. Use Wix tools like SEO Assistant , email marketing, blogs and advertising to engage your audience, reach more visitors and boost conversions. Expert tip from business owner Nick Collins, founder of Cleverchefs: "When I ask my clients why they chose us over our competitors, they usually say it's because of our website. I think they can really feel our passion through the way we connect with them and stand out as a creative catering company." Step What to do Define your website’s purpose Decide if it’s a blog, business site, online store or portfolio to guide your design and content. Choose a website builder or platform Wix provides easy-to-use website creation tools . Register your domain name Pick a unique memorable web address that reflects your brand. Get a hosting plan Choose a reliable plan that ensures your site is fast and accessible. Plan and design your site Map out your pages, select a template and customize it to match your brand. Add content and functionality Add text, images, videos and features like forms, online stores or booking tools. Test and launch Check your site on desktop, mobile and tablet, fix any issues then go live. Promote and maintain Share your site through SEO, social media and email and keep content updated. Different ways to build a website from scratch In practice, there are several ways to create a website, each with different levels of flexibility, complexity and ongoing responsibility. Understanding these options helps clarify what building a website “from scratch” really involves and which approach best fits your goals. One option is hand-coding a website using HTML, CSS and JavaScript. This gives you full control over design and functionality, but it requires technical skills and a significant time investment. You’re also responsible for everything from responsiveness and accessibility to hosting, performance and security. Another approach is using a content management system (CMS) or more advanced setups like static or headless sites. These methods make it easier to manage content or optimize performance, but they still involve technical setup, maintenance and ongoing updates, often becoming more complex as a site grows. Each method has its place depending on your skills, time and long-term needs. For many people, website builders offer a practical balance, making it possible to create a professional website quickly without the technical overhead of building and maintaining everything from scratch. How much does it cost to build a website from scratch? Website costs depend on design, functionality, content, hosting and marketing. Custom designs, advanced features like eCommerce or booking systems, and professional content increase costs, while DIY builders like Wix are more affordable. Hosting and domains vary by provider, but Wix plans include both plus 24/7 support. Marketing often adds more than the website itself, so plan for ongoing promotion. Start small, scale later, DIY where possible and keep content and design updated. How much does it cost to create a website with Wix? With Wix, you can learn more about how to create a website for free or choose a paid plan starting at $17 per month, which covers hosting, a custom domain and support. Learn more: What is a custom domain? Plans Monthly price (USD) Ideal for Features Free $0 Individuals just starting out Wix branding, limited storage, subdomain Light $17 Personal websites or small projects needing a custom domain Free domain for 1 year, 2GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, light marketing suite, 2 site collaborators Core $29 Small businesses or freelancers needing basic features Free domain for 1 year, 50GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, basic marketing suite, accept payments, basic eCommerce, 5 site collaborators Business $39 Best for eCommerce sites Free domain for 1 year, 100GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, standard marketing suite, accept payments, standard eCommerce, 10 site collaborators Business Elite $159 Large-scale eCommerce sites or high-traffic businesses Free domain for 1 year, unlimited storage, multi-cloud hosting, advanced marketing suite, accept payments, advanced eCommerce, advanced developer platform, 100 site collaborators Enterprise Custom pricing Large enterprises or businesses needing custom solutions Custom solution tailored to your business needs Editor's note: All pricing in the table is based on annual billing. Pricing information as updated as of November 2nd, 2025. View a detailed breakdown of each plan on our pricing page . How to create a website from scratch FAQ Can anyone create a website from scratch? If you choose a website builder that essentially provides the infrastructure of your site, yes. You don't have to know coding to make a website, you just have to use the right website platform. With Wix, your entire site infrastructure is taken care of, including advanced levels of security, including public key certification via TLS, so you can focus on what matters: your design and content. Can I create my own website for free? Yes, you can absolutely create your own website for free. Platforms like Wix let you start building without any upfront costs. You can choose from designer-made templates, customize your design and publish your site—all for free. As your needs grow, you can upgrade to a paid plan to access a custom domain and advanced features. Do websites make money? They can, and many do. A website can generate income in several ways such as selling products or services, offering paid memberships, running ads or through affiliate marketing. The key is to create valuable content, attract consistent traffic and choose a monetization model that fits your goals and audience. Can a beginner build a website? Definitely. Today’s website builders are designed for beginners with no coding experience. With intuitive drag-and-drop editors, pre-designed templates and step-by-step guidance, anyone can create a professional-looking website. The most important part is having a clear vision for your brand and what you want your site to achieve. What are common challenges faced during a website launch? Some of the most common challenges include unclear site goals, missing content, broken links, slow loading times and SEO oversights. Many first-time creators also underestimate the importance of testing their site on different devices before publishing. Planning ahead and using built-in tools for analytics and optimization can help you avoid these issues and ensure a smooth launch.

  • How to sell books online

    Get started by:  Creating an online store →  |  Getting a domain → Selling books online can start with one title on your shelf and grow into a reliable income stream. Some people sell books they’ve already read, others publish their own and some create small resale businesses around specific niches. Success isn’t about luck or volume—it’s about knowing where to sell, how to price and how to connect the right buyer with the right book through your eCommerce platform . TL;DR: how to sell books online Start by deciding which books you want to sell and where. Use marketplaces to reach a wide audience quickly or make an online store with a website builder for full control over pricing, branding and the customer experience. Then create listings with clear descriptions and great photos. Price your books competitively handle orders professionally and build reader trust with reviews. Ready to sell books online? With Wix eCommerce, you can build a professional online store that attracts customers, drives sales and grows your brand. Enjoy full customization, built-in SEO and powerful marketing tools, all in one platform. Start today and turn your vision into success. What you’ll learn: How to choose the right books and formats for your audience Where and how to sell digital print and audio books How to create listings that convert with visuals descriptions and bonuses Pricing strategies for profit and faster sales How to manage orders and customer communication efficiently Tips for niche book categories to boost appeal and value How to sell books online Selling books online works best when you follow a clear sequence instead of trying everything at once. The steps below apply if you’re selling one book or hundreds. Decide what books you’re selling Choose where to sell your books Create book listings that sell Price your books for profit and faster sales Manage book orders effectively Selling books online starts with choosing the right platform like a marketplace or your own website and finding your audience. Write clear descriptions, use quality images and previews, price smartly and manage orders well to keep buyers happy. 01. Decide what books you’re selling First, think about who you’re selling to. Books move much faster when they’re aimed at a specific group of readers. Reaching niche audiences—like hobbyists, students or collectors—is way easier than trying to please everyone at once. A guide on home gardening will naturally attract green thumbs looking for advice, while a sci-fi novel appeals to fans of specific authors and series. Even better, collectors of vintage comics already know exactly what they want. While topics like professional skills or academic subjects might have smaller audiences, those readers are incredibly dedicated, making your sales more consistent and profitable than general-interest titles. Book it: picking your format Once you’ve found your crowd, pick the format that fits their lifestyle. Print books are a classic choice for kids' books or high-end collectibles, though you’ll need to handle storage and shipping yourself. Ebooks are much easier on the logistics side and offer instant gratification for your readers—just make sure your layout is clean and easy on the eyes. If you’re feeling ambitious, audiobooks are a fantastic way to go. They take a bit more work to record and edit but they fetch a higher price point. Plus, they’re a favorite add-on for fans of self-help and non-fiction. Learn more: How to sell online How to find products to sell online How to make money online 02. Choose where to sell your books Where you sell your books affects how much money you keep, how much work you do and how many people see your listings. Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay or Etsy bring buyers directly to your books, making it easier to get sales at the start. The downside is they charge fees, control the checkout process and take a cut of your profit. Selling through your own website gives you full control over pricing, branding and the customer experience. You can set promotions, bundle products and keep more of your profit. The trade-off is you need to generate traffic yourself with marketing, SEO and email campaigns. Many successful sellers combine both approaches. They use marketplaces to gain exposure and test which books sell best, then guide repeat customers to their own site for higher margins. For example, you might list popular used books on Amazon and direct niche buyers of your original guides or audiobooks to your own store. Learn more: Online selling sites How to make a website to sell You can sell books through marketplaces, your own online store or specialty platforms. Sites like Amazon, eBay and Etsy are great for connecting with buyers fast. Building your own store gives you the power to control your pricing, branding and customer experience. If you’re into digital reads or audiobooks, platforms like Kindle, Apple Books or Audible help you reach readers who want instant downloads. How to sell books on your own website Start by choosing a drag-and-drop website builder that makes creating your shop simple. Pick a platform that includes eCommerce hosting , a professional domain name search and registration and templates you can customize for your books. With online store templates you can quickly set up product pages with high-quality images, detailed descriptions and previews for digital or audiobook content. Checkout flows, online shopping cart and inventory tools will help you manage both physical and digital books without any extra work. Explore website templates made for books and publishers Set up a professional business email using your own domain name to keep your reader chats polished. You can also use built-in SEO tools, email newsletters and social media links to help new fans find your work and keep them coming back for more. If you’re selling digital or audiobooks, your site will handle secure file delivery automatically. For physical copies, you can track every shipment and manage your inventory right from your dashboard. It’s the easiest way to keep your store organized while you focus on growing your brand. Learn more: How to create a website How to start an online store How to start a book blog What The Last Bookstore says about selling books online with Wix “ Wix had the tools that we needed to create that experience online. We could change and customize every single detail and those tiny little details are what's so important to us. We wanted people to have that feel looking at our website enough that it would persuade them to come and visit. ”  — Jenna and Josh Spencer, founders of The Last Bookstore Benefits of using Wix for selling books online Wix makes it simple to build a professional online store for your books. You can customize website templates , showcase multiple images or videos, add detailed descriptions, accept payments and manage shipping—all in one platform. Wix also helps you promote your books on multiple channels and use marketing tools to engage buyers and boost sales. Key features: Customizable templates:  Design book-focused product pages that match your brand Product displays:  Showcase multiple images or videos with detailed descriptions Secure payments:  Accept credit cards, PayPal, Wix Payments and more Shipping options:  Offer flat rates, free shipping or local delivery Multi-channel promotion:  Sell and advertise on Google, Facebook, Amazon and eBay Enhanced shopping experience:  Add quick view, sorting and related products Marketing tools:  Run social posts, email campaigns and discount coupons to increase sales How to sell books online with Amazon Amazon is perfect for authors who want to get seen and sellers with books that people are searching for. While popular and evergreen titles get found fast, the competition can be tough. Don't forget to run the numbers on referral and fulfillment fees before you list to make sure your profits stay on track. First, pick the seller account that fits your vibe. Individual accounts are great if you're just testing the waters, while professional accounts are the way to go for bigger inventories. You also have choices for shipping. Using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) takes the work off your plate and gives you that Prime badge, though it does come with storage fees. If you prefer to handle the packing and shipping yourself, self-fulfillment is a solid way to keep costs down. Find out more: How to sell on Amazon How to sell books on Kindle Kindle is the perfect home for your ebooks especially if you write nonfiction guides or genre fiction. To get your book ready for its Kindle debut its formatting needs to be just right. Use headings bullet points and good spacing so your words look great on any device. Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is a great tool to help you get started. Use their formatting guides so your ebook looks its best on every screen. Pick categories and keywords that will help readers find you. You can even use KDP Select to run promotions like Kindle Unlimited and countdown deals. With KDP you can set prices in different currencies and manage your royalties which change depending on the region and price. You can also use reports specific to Kindle like tracking pages read through Kindle Unlimited to see how readers are engaging with your book and fine-tune your approach. Turn your idea into a real shop.  Start selling with Wix eCommerce →  How to sell books on eBay eBay works best when you treat each book like a collectible. Use eBay’s “Item Specifics” fields like author, format, edition and publication year because buyers often filter searches using these. For rare or first editions, include the ISBN and mention if it’s a signed copy. Pick your listing style wisely. Auctions are great for rare gems or out-of-print titles where high demand can drive up the price. For your everyday reads, a "Buy It Now" fixed price helps you clear your shelves faster. You can even schedule your listings to go live when buyers are most active. Take the guesswork out of delivery by using calculated shipping so buyers see the right rates every time. If you want to get more eyes on a rare find, try using Promoted Listings to give your book a little extra push. Learn more: How to sell on eBay How to sell on Etsy How to sell on Facebook marketplace How to sell on YouTube 03. Create book listings that sell A great listing is your best salesperson. It’s what convinces a reader to hit "buy" before they ever turn a page. Start with a clear title that includes the book name, the author and important details like the edition or series. Selling a used or collectible gem? Be crystal clear about the condition—stick to standard terms like “good,” “very good” or “like new.” Book descriptions Focus on the reader, not yourself. Explain who the book is for and what it offers. For example, instead of “This is a great gardening book” write “This guide helps beginner gardeners grow herbs and vegetables in small urban spaces.” Highlight features like page count, illustrations or any special content. For digital books, mention file formats and compatibility. For audiobooks, note length, narration quality and any extras like bonus chapters. Visuals matter Add high-quality photos of the front cover, spine and back. If the book is signed or has special illustrations, make sure to snap those details too. Selling an eBook? Use a few screenshots of sample pages so readers know what to expect. Bonuses that boost sales: Bundle it up:  Group related books together to give your readers more value. Give them a taste:  Let buyers read a page or listen to a short audio clip before they commit. Celebrate the unique:  For rare or collectible finds, mention what makes them special like first editions, limited prints or signed copies. “ The site means that people can come to one place and read all the information about the book, and there's a playlist on there, there are free videos, there are loads of other fun stuff and competitions that they can go and see, all in one place. The great thing about Wix is it's literally drag and drop things. It's really easy to link up things to different pages, and it's just a very simple process. ” — Hannah Read-Baldrey, author and stylist 04. Price your books for profit and faster sales To set the right price for your books start by checking the going rate. Look at what similar books actually sold for on marketplaces like eBay and Amazon not just their listing price. This will give you a realistic idea of what people are willing to pay. For used books condition is everything. A "very good" copy can sell for 20–50% more than a "good" one. If you're selling new or collectible books consider the edition scarcity and current demand. Cover costs and price books wisely Before you set a price make sure you’ve covered all your costs. This includes marketplace fees payment processing fees shipping materials and your time to pack and ship. That $15 book might seem like a good deal but after fees and shipping you could end up with only $10. Digital books and audiobooks don’t have shipping costs but you might have production expenses like formatting editing or narration to factor in. Be strategic with your pricing. If you want to sell books quickly especially common ones a lower price can help. For rare or collectible books you can set a higher price but be prepared to wait for the right buyer. Know your numbers Keep an eye on every sale. Take note of which titles sell fastest which formats or price points do best and which listings get the most views but few sales. Use this info to adjust your prices improve descriptions or update visuals. 05. Manage book orders effectively For physical books, pack each order carefully. Use bubble mailers for single books and sturdy boxes for multiple copies. Add protective inserts or wrapping to prevent damage during shipping. Weigh packages accurately to avoid overpaying or undercharging for postage. Offering tracking builds buyer confidence and reduces disputes. If you sell digital books or audiobooks make sure the download works every time. Check your links file formats and audio quality before sending them out. Try to automate confirmations and follow-ups to save time and give your buyers a professional experience. Keep the conversation going Chatting with your customers is a great way to build trust. Send out a quick confirmation email when you receive an order and keep them in the loop when their books are on the way. Being quick to answer questions about book condition, delivery times or returns makes a world of difference. Learn more: What is eCommerce How to start an eCommerce business What is and how to use Wix stores eCommerce tools How to sell used books online Just because a book is old doesn't mean it's valuable. Demand scarcity and relevance are much more important. Out-of-print titles academic books and special editions usually sell well but you'll need patience to find the right buyer. Selling used books successfully means setting clear expectations since buyers value accurate condition over perfection. Overstating quality can lead to returns and negative feedback so honesty is key. Focus on nonfiction, popular authors, textbooks and niche subjects and always research recent sales to price realistically. Organize your used books:  Sort by condition, edition and rarity. Highlight collectible or vintage books, first editions, signed copies or special prints. Take clear book photos:  Show the front cover, spine, back and any damage. Well-lit, uncluttered images help sell old books online faster. Price your books for sales and profit:  Research completed sales on eBay, Amazon or other marketplaces. Use fixed pricing for common books and auctions for rare or collectible books. Bundling old books can attract more buyers. Ship books securely:  Use bubble mailers or sturdy boxes, add protective inserts and offer tracking. Include clear shipping options to improve buyer confidence. Track and refine listings:  Monitor which books sell fastest and which editions get attention. Adjust descriptions, titles and pricing to sell books online efficiently. How to sell my books online If you’ve just finished writing your first masterpiece or you’re clearing out your personal library, it’s time to get those stories into the hands of eager readers. Give your book a five-star look Think of your product page as your book's cover letter. Use a clean and professional cover that fits your genre, write a clear and engaging description and include sample pages or audio clips so readers know exactly what they’re getting. Don’t forget metadata—keywords, categories and ISBNs help your book show up in searches. Check out other self-published books in your genre for ideas and experiment with different titles, blurbs or covers to see what grabs attention. Build trust and grow your reader following Early reviews are gold so offer advanced reader copies (ARCs) to gather honest feedback and social proof. Encourage readers to leave reviews on Goodreads or other review sites. At the same time, focus on your author platform: a simple website, an email list and a couple of social media accounts where your audience spends time. Teaming up with other authors for cross-promotions, guest posts or online events can also help bring more eyes to your books. Promote your book and track your success Paid ads and promotion services are an option but your main goal is turning views into sales. On your author website you can offer bundles special editions or limited-time discounts to get readers buying. Share updates through emails social posts and promotions to keep your audience hooked. Keep an eye on which books formats and promotions are doing well and adjust your strategy as you go. How to sell niche books online Different types of books attract different buyers and understanding what each audience wants makes selling faster and more profitable. Each niche has specific details that drive decisions—collectors want proof of rarity, parents want clarity and students want accuracy. The goal is to make those details clear, reduce friction and highlight value. How to sell vintage books online Collectors of vintage books are all about the edition print run and history. Make sure to note any inscriptions previous ownership marks or publication quirks. You’ll want to include precise measurements binding notes and details on the dust jacket condition. For those truly rare finds share a bit of context like the publication year or publisher history—it’s a great way to show the book's true worth. You can even offer optional framing or protective packaging for high-value copies to give your buyers extra confidence and help you price with a premium. How to sell comic books online Comic book buyers pay attention to details. Include full issue numbers, variant editions and print runs. Describe page quality and staples, not just covers. If you can, mention story arcs or key character appearances as they can boost demand. Think about grouping consecutive issues or complete runs; collectors love ready-made sets and often pay more than for single issues. How to sell children's books online Parents, teachers and gift-givers want to know if a book is right for their child. Include reading level, age range and page count in bullet points. Mention if the book teaches lessons, builds skills or includes interactive elements. For illustrated books, highlight page style—full-color spreads, lift-the-flap features or textured pages—so buyers know what to expect. How to sell coloring books online Coloring book enthusiasts want to see what they’re getting before they buy. Show them sample pages with plenty of detail so they can get a feel for the book's theme and intricacy. Let them know if the designs are printed on one or both sides of the page and how many pages are in the book. If you offer a digital version, be upfront about the download format and resolution. You can also bundle themed sets for holidays or events to appeal to people buying gifts or looking for fun group activities. How to sell audiobooks online Highlight narrator experience, file format and total runtime for your audiobooks. Include chapter samples or a teaser to show off audio clarity. If the audiobook is linked to an existing ebook or print version, consider bundling them or offering a discount for owning multiple formats. Mention compatibility with popular players or apps to help reduce purchase hesitation. How to sell textbooks online Students want textbooks that are accurate, complete and fast to get. Specify the edition, year and any extras like access codes or CDs. Be clear about the condition of pages, covers and notes. Mention if shipping is quick or if local pickup is an option, since timing matters. For older editions, explain how they differ from current ones so buyers can feel confident in their choice. How to sell books online FAQ Which is the best platform to sell books? It depends on your goals. Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay and Etsy give you access to built-in audiences and are great for quick exposure while your own website gives you full control over pricing, branding and customer experience. Many sellers combine both — use marketplaces to test demand and drive traffic to their own site for higher margins. How do I find out if my books are worth money? Take a peek at recent sales for similar books on eBay or Amazon to see what buyers are actually paying. Don't just look at the listing prices! You'll want to check the rarity, edition and condition of your copy. Collectibles, out-of-print versions and first editions are usually your big winners. If you want a quick estimate, tools like AbeBooks and BookScouter make it easy to see what your library is worth. Is it better to sell on a marketplace or my own site? Marketplaces help you reach more people and simplify the process, but they take a slice of your profit and give you less creative control. Your own site puts you in the driver's seat with full power over pricing, promotions and the way customers experience your brand. The ultimate win? Using both. You can attract new fans on big marketplaces then guide your loyal readers back to your own store. How do I price books for online sale? Start by seeing what similar books have sold for, taking into account their edition, condition and rarity. Your price should cover all your costs like fees, shipping and your time. For more common books, a lower price can help you sell faster. If you've got a rare or collectible book, you can price it higher but it might take longer to find the right buyer.

  • How to make an interview portfolio that gets you hired

    Ready to let your work shine? Build your portfolio →  An interview portfolio provides tangible proof of your skills and bridges the gap between your resume and a job offer, which is why learning how to make an interview portfolio is so valuable for job seekers. While a resume tells a potential employer what you did, an online portfolio  demonstrates exactly how you did it. This visual aid allows you to control the narrative of the interview and focus the conversation on your strongest achievements. Building a collection of your work might seem like a big task, but it helps you distinguish yourself from other candidates who only bring a resume to the table. This guide breaks down how to make a portfolio  into manageable steps so you can walk into your next interview with confidence. With Wix’s portfolio builder, you can create a professional, eye-catching portfolio in just a few clicks. Customizable templates and intuitive tools make it easy to showcase your work with confidence, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor. TL;DR: how to make an interview portfolio An interview portfolio is like a visual resume. It’s a great way to show off your skills, experience and achievements in a clear and professional way. Start by picking your best work and decide on a format that works for you. You could build a website  for a digital portfolio, create a slide deck or even use a simple binder. Organize it so it tells your story and demonstrates the value you bring. Make sure it’s easy to navigate, double-check everything for accuracy and keep it updated as you grow in your career. A polished portfolio can help you stand out and show recruiters why you’re the right person for the job. Features of a great interview portfolio Feature Why it matters High-quality work samples Demonstrates your skills, experience and impact with concrete examples that prove you can deliver results Clear narrative Helps interviewers understand your career journey and see how your skills match the role Professional design and format Creates a strong first impression and makes your portfolio easy to navigate and visually appealing Easy contact options Ensures recruiters can quickly reach you increasing the chance of follow-up opportunities Up-to-date content Shows growth and keeps your portfolio relevant reflecting your latest achievements and skills Learn more: How to create a marketing portfolio How to create a modeling portfolio How to create a photography portfolio How to make a business portfolio How to make an interview portfolio in 8 steps Choose a format Select your best work Pick a domain and website host Choose a website builder and template Build a narrative Make yourself easy to contact Review your interview portfolio Keep your interview portfolio updated 01. Choose a format First, decide how you’ll present your work. A digital portfolio, like a website, is the most popular choice. It’s versatile, easy to share with a link before an interview and can be viewed from anywhere. This is a must-have for remote interviews or creative fields where you want to show off your digital projects. You could also create a presentation deck. You can save it as a PDF and send it over, or present it live during a video call. For in-person interviews, a physical binder with high-quality prints can leave a lasting impression, especially in more traditional industries. Pro tip:  If you're stuck on where to start, exploring the  best portfolio websites  can spark plenty of ideas. 02. Select your best work This is your chance to shine, so think quality over quantity. Pick 3–5 projects that really show off your skills and are relevant to the job you want. The goal is to prove you're the right person for this role, not just list what you did in your last one. For each project, tell a story using the STAR method:    Situation:  What was the challenge?    Task:  What was your goal?    Action:  What steps did you take to reach it?    Result:  What was the outcome? Use numbers like sales figures or engagement metrics to show your impact. To make your portfolio even more compelling, add a short bio and share what you hope to achieve in the next few years. You can also include a visual timeline of your career, along with any certifications, awards or great feedback from past managers. Explore these portfolio name ideas . 03. Pick a domain and website host If you choose a digital format, you need a place for it to live online. Your domain name  is your address on the internet. It should be professional and easy to remember. Using your full name is usually the best choice. Use a  domain name search  tool to check availability, or try a  domain name generator  for creative ideas if your first choice isn’t available. Once you have a name in mind, you need a website host. Hosting ensures your site is visible on the web. Some website builders even include free website hosting , which simplifies the process. Secure a domain that looks clean and credible to recruiters. 04. Choose a website builder and template You don't need to be a designer to learn how to open a website . Wix gives you the tools to make a portfolio website, fast. You can choose from 2,000+ website design templates  designed specifically for portfolios, saving you hours of work. Wix simplifies your portfolio website setup with drag-and-drop features. This allows you to customize the look and feel to match your personal brand without touching a line of code. Pick a template that is clean, professional and puts your work front and center. Check out Wix's templates: Resume website templates Portfolio website templates Personal website templates Discover the  best portfolio website builders  to get started on your journey. 05. Build a narrative Your portfolio should tell a story. Look at the job description and pick work samples that show you have the skills the employer is looking for. You want them to see you as the perfect person for the job. For each sample, walk them through your creative process. Don't just show the final product. Explain the "why" and "how" behind your work. For an extra touch, consider adding a 30-60-90 day plan. This is where you can outline your goals and how you'll contribute during your first three months. Expert tip from Doreen Weissfelner, head of Wix analytics and home: “Your portfolio is your chance to direct the narrative. Decide what story you want to tell and build everything else around that.” 06. Make yourself easy to contact Recruiters need a clear way to reach you. Include a dedicated contact page or place your details in the footer of every page. Include your professional email address  and a link to your LinkedIn profile. You might also consider adding a contact form. This protects your email address from spam while giving visitors a direct line to your inbox. Make sure every link works and leads exactly where it should. If you use scheduling software  for calls, embed that link directly on your contact page. 07. Review your interview portfolio Before you send your link or print your pages, double-check everything. A manageable interview portfolio is typically 5–10 pages or 10–12 slides. If it's too long, the interviewer might lose interest. Test functionality on different devices and check all digital links. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly too, as most people browse on their phones. A good website builder with built-in  SEO features  can handle much of this for you, while also improving your  website performance  to keep visitors engaged. If using a physical portfolio, use high-quality copies rather than originals. You may want to leave it with the interviewer, and you won't want to lose your only copy. 08. Keep your interview portfolio updated Your career is always growing and your portfolio should grow with it. Make it a habit to update your site or portfolio every few months. Add your latest projects, new skills or recent wins. It’s easier to do it little by little than all at once. Keeping your portfolio fresh means you’re always ready for new opportunities. Plus, it’s a great way to see how much you’ve grown over time. Think of it as a work in progress, not something you finish and forget about. What to include in an interview portfolio Your portfolio should show off both your personality and your professional achievements. Make sure to include these sections to give interviewers a full picture of what you bring to the table. Introduction Start with a short bio about who you are and your career goals. Explain what makes you a great fit for the role or industry you're applying for. Resume Add an updated resume that’s tailored to the job. It should be the same one you sent in with your application so your interviewer can easily follow along. Professional summary/timeline A visual timeline of your education, training and career path is a great way to show your journey. It’s much easier to scan than a long paragraph and helps the interviewer quickly grasp your experience. Work samples/case studies This is where you let your work shine. For each project, describe your role, the problem you solved, the skills you applied and the outcome. Use numbers and data to show the impact you made. Skills and accomplishments Show off your skills, like leadership or writing, with real examples. Include copies of any licenses, certifications, awards or positive reviews you’ve received. References/recommendations Add letters of recommendation or testimonials from past employers or clients. You can also include a list of professional references with their contact information. Closing page End with a concluding thought. It's also a good idea to list a few questions for the interviewer to show you’re engaged and curious about the role. Interview portfolio examples built on Wix Each of these web design portfolio examples  uses Wix to showcase your skills, highlight your achievements and present your experience in a clear, professional and visually engaging way. 01. Christina Sterbenz From the moment you land on Christina Sterbenz ’s interview portfolio, her writing skills are immediately clear. The design is clean and minimal, allowing her copy and experience to take center stage while still showing personality. Thoughtful layout choices and subtle interactions help guide interviewers through her work without distraction. Her resume section is concise and well structured, highlighting the most relevant parts of her background at a glance. Like what you see? Build your own interview portfolio using this same template. Template name: Creative CV website template 02. Lauryn Higgins Lauryn Higgins ' portfolio immediately establishes credibility, highlighting her experience as a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist who has contributed to major publications and covered global events. Her website pairs concise, well-crafted writing with a clean layout, making it easy for interviewers to quickly grasp the scope and impact of her work. Logos from outlets like PBS, The New York Times and Vogue link directly to her published articles, offering clear proof of experience. Thoughtful typography and a professional contact setup reinforce her expertise and make her portfolio a strong reference for employers evaluating her qualifications. Like what you see? Build your own interview portfolio using this same template. Template name: Food photographer website template Editor’s note: Don’t worry about the template’s original niche. Wix templates are fully customizable, so choose a design that feels right and adapt it to your brand. 03. Dylan Wirth Dylan Wirth’s  portfolio is clear and professional, making it easy for recruiters to understand his background and strengths. He presents his education, work experience and skills in a structured way that supports quick evaluation during an interview. Subtle personal details add personality without distracting from his qualifications. A clean design downloadable resume and testimonials help reinforce credibility and make follow-up simple. Like what you see? Build your own interview portfolio using this same template. Template name: Business CV website template 04. Toni Bonini Toni Bonini ’s portfolio immediately showcases her creative talents through a vibrant well-designed homepage that draws attention to her work. The colorful visuals and thoughtful layout guide visitors through her projects without overwhelming them, making it easy for interviewers to grasp her skills and style at a glance. Like what you see? Build your own interview portfolio using this same template. Template name: Illustrator website template 05. Anissa Hexton Anissa Hexton 's online CV showcases her decade of experience in marketing and branding with a clean friendly design. The homepage introduces her with a professional headshot and a warm welcome while simple buttons guide visitors to her resume, projects and background. A personable introduction makes the site feel professional yet approachable. Clear call-to-action buttons direct visitors to her work and multiple contact options (phone, email, LinkedIn) make networking easy. Like what you see? Build your own interview portfolio using this same template. Template name: Business CV website template Why you need an interview portfolio An interview portfolio helps you show your skills and achievements instead of just talking about them. As Chava Katz, PMM @ Wix Pages at Wix says: “Your portfolio is your visual resume, it speaks before you do. It’s how clients, employers or collaborators understand what makes your work special. The stronger the story it tells, the more doors it opens.” Learn more: How much does a portfolio website cost? How to make an interview portfolio FAQ How do I create an interview portfolio with no experience? Focus on potential rather than professional history. Include projects from your coursework, volunteer activities or internships. You can also create mock projects that solve real-world problems to demonstrate your skills. Treat these exactly like paying jobs in how you present them. How to create a portfolio for interviewing when you're still employed? Privacy is important here. If creating a website, password protect specific pages or the entire site. Only share the password with recruiters. Remove sensitive company data from your samples or anonymize the information to protect your current employer's confidentiality. What format to use to present your portfolio during an interview? The format depends on the interview setting. For virtual interviews, a website or digital slide deck is best. For in-person meetings, bringing a tablet to scroll through your site or a printed physical binder works well. Always have a backup plan in case technology fails. How do you present your portfolio in an interview? Don't just hand it over or send a link without context. Use it as a visual aid to support your answers. When asked about a specific skill, turn to the relevant page or slide and walk the interviewer through the project. This makes your answer more concrete and memorable.

  • What is a .ai domain and why its trending

    The perfect domain is just a click away:   claim your domain →  While the .ai domain is officially the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the Caribbean island of Anguilla, its popularity has surged because "AI" is the well-known acronym for artificial intelligence. Now it's the go-to domain for tech companies, startups and innovators working with AI technologies. As choosing a domain name  is an important decision, this guide will explain everything you need to know about the .ai domain. We will discuss the benefits, challenges and how you can register a .ai domain when you decide to create a website . By understanding this particular domain, you can decide if it's the right fit to brand your tech-focused project or business. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: what is a .ai domain? An .ai domain is technically the country code for Anguilla, but it's now primarily used by companies in the artificial intelligence sector. It's a popular choice for tech startups and established businesses that want to brand themselves as innovative and forward-thinking. This domain extension instantly tells visitors that your site is related to AI, machine learning or data science. .ai domain feature Description Origin Country code top-level domain (CCTLD) for Anguilla. Primary use Associated with artificial intelligence (AI) companies and projects. Benefits Memorable, tech-focused, good availability, strong branding. Challenges Higher cost compared to .com, potential user confusion. Who should use it Tech startups, AI researchers, robotics companies, data scientists. Learn more:   What is a domain? What is a parked domain? Benefits of a .ai domain Choosing a .ai domain comes with several advantages that can help your brand make a strong impression: Signals a tech focus : A .ai domain immediately tells your audience that your business is related to artificial intelligence. This builds instant relevance and credibility within the tech community. Highly memorable : The .ai extension is short, catchy and easy to remember. This makes it easier for people to find and return to your website. Good availability : While many short and desirable .com domains are already taken, there are still plenty of options available with .ai. This gives you a better chance to get the exact domain name you want. Strong branding potential : For a tech startup, a .ai domain can be a powerful part of your brand identity. It suggests innovation, modernity and a forward-thinking approach.  Learn more:   I want to buy a domain name Common challenges of a .ai domain While a .ai domain has many upsides, there are a few challenges to keep in mind before you commit: Higher cost : .ai domains are typically more expensive than traditional domains like .com or .org. Registration and renewal fees can be significantly higher, which might be a consideration for a bootstrapped startup.  Potential user confusion : Although the tech world understands the .ai extension, some users outside the industry might not be familiar with it. They might mistrust it or mistype it as .com out of habit, potentially leading to lost traffic. Registration restrictions : Some countries have restrictions on who can register their country code domains. While Anguilla has open registration for .ai domains, it's always good to be aware that policies can change. .ai domains are frequent targets for cybersquatting and speculative buying : These factors make it harder to secure your exact brand name affordably.  Learn more: What is domain squatting? Should you choose a .ai domain for your business? Choosing a .ai domain can be a smart move if your brand is connected to technology, innovation or artificial intelligence. It instantly signals that your business is forward-thinking and part of the growing AI industry—an advantage if you want to stand out in a competitive digital space. Startups, SaaS companies and AI-driven tools often use .ai domains to attract investors and customers who associate the extension with cutting-edge tech. However, a .ai domain isn’t the right fit for everyone. If your target audience isn’t tech-focused or prefers traditional web addresses, sticking with a .com or .net might build more trust and familiarity. You can also consider securing both—using a .com domain for your main site and a .ai domain for your AI-powered product or innovation arm. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your brand identity, goals and audience expectations. If your main goal is trust and keeping your brand safe, it’s usually better to go with a common domain like .com. Find out more: How much does a domain name cost? "When choosing a domain, prioritize one that aligns with your brand and is easy for customers to remember. A domain should reflect your business and make it simple for people to find you online." - Einat Shafir, Product Manager at Wix .ai vs .io domains: which should you choose? When choosing a domain for your tech startup or project, .ai  and .io  are two popular options that often come to mind. Each has its own strengths and unique appeal, so the table below breaks down the key differences to help you decide which one aligns best with your goals. .ai domain .io domain Primary association Artificial Intelligence (AI) and tech startups Input/Output (I/O) and tech startups Popularity Gaining popularity in AI and tech fields Widely recognized in tech and developer communities Target audience AI-focused businesses, researchers and tech enthusiasts Tech startups, developers and software companies Cost Generally more expensive than .io domains Slightly more affordable than .ai domains SEO benefits Strong for AI-related keywords and industries Strong for tech-related keywords and industries Availability Limited due to increasing demand in AI space More options available but still competitive Perception Modern, innovative and AI-specific Tech-savvy, versatile and developer-friendly Country code origin Anguilla (a British overseas territory) British Indian Ocean territory Use beyond tech Rarely used outside AI and tech Occasionally used for creative branding outside tech Renewal costs Higher renewal fees compared to .io Moderate renewal fees Are .ai domains legitimate and safe? Yes, .ai domains are legitimate and generally safe to use. The extension is managed by the government of Anguilla and operated by a reputable registry, which follows standard security practices similar to those of .com or .net. Many tech companies, especially in the artificial intelligence space, use .ai domains without issue. However, because it’s a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) rather than a traditional generic one, it’s wise to register through a trusted, accredited domain registrar  and enable domain privacy  and HTTPS protection. In short, .ai domains are secure for business use, as long as you follow the same safety steps you would with any other domain. Examples of .ai domains Many innovative companies are already using the .ai domain to build their brand. These examples show how versatile and powerful this TLD can be: Jasper.ai : An AI writing assistant that helps marketers and content creators generate high-quality copy. Their domain name clearly communicates their core technology. Character.ai : A platform that allows users to create and interact with AI-powered chatbots. The name is simple, direct and perfectly captures what the service offers. Midjourney.ai : While their main service operates on Discord, their website uses the .ai domain to serve as an informational hub and entry point for their AI image generation tool. Explore: What's the best domain extension for a personal website? How to choose a .ai domain that's right for you Selecting the perfect .ai  domain for your business or project requires careful consideration to ensure it aligns with your brand and goals. Use these tips to guide you: Keep it short and memorable:  Aim for a domain name that is concise, easy to spell and simple to remember. Avoid overly complex names or long phrases that could confuse your audience. Reflect your brand and purpose:  Your domain should clearly communicate your focus on artificial intelligence or technology. Incorporate relevant keywords or your brand name to make it instantly recognizable. Check for trademark conflicts:  Before finalizing your domain, ensure it doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks. This will save you from potential legal issues down the road. Learn more: How to trademark a domain name Consider SEO benefits:  If your business relies on search engine traffic, choose a domain name that includes keywords related to your niche. This can improve your visibility in search results. Secure social media handles: Consistency across platforms is key for branding.  Check if the corresponding social media handles are available for your chosen domain name. Plan for scalability:  Think about your long-term goals. Choose a domain name that allows room for growth, even if your business expands beyond AI in the future. Act quickly : .ai  domains are in high demand, especially in the tech industry. If you find a name you love, register it as soon as possible to avoid losing it to someone else. Following these steps will allow you to  secure a .ai  domain that not only represents your brand but also positions you as a leader in the AI space. How to get started with a .ai domain Ready to claim your own .ai domain? The process is simple and straightforward, even if you’re setting up your very first website. Whether you’re launching a new AI startup, showcasing a tech portfolio or building a product site, here’s how to get started — step by step. Brainstorm or generate a domain name Choose a domain registrar Register your domain Build your website 01. Brainstorm or generate a domain name Your domain name is the foundation of your online identity, so take time to choose one that captures your brand’s essence. It should be short, memorable and easy to spell—ideally reflecting your business name, niche or value proposition. For example, if you’re creating a chatbot service, something like chatly.ai instantly tells visitors what your business is about. Avoid using complex words, special characters or hyphens that can make your domain harder to share verbally or remember. Once you’ve brainstormed a few options, check their availability using a domain registrar or search tool. Pro tip:  Use Wix's   domain name generator   to instantly generate creative and relevant name ideas. It uses smart suggestions to help you find a domain that stands out, including available .ai options. 02. Choose a domain registrar A domain registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names. Choosing the right one can make managing your domain much easier down the line. Look for a registrar that offers .ai extensions, transparent pricing and user-friendly tools for domain management. When comparing options, check: Registration and renewal costs : .ai domains often cost more than .com domains, so make sure you know the long-term price. Privacy protection : ensure your personal or business information stays private with WHOIS privacy. Support and reliability : choose a registrar with responsive customer support and an easy dashboard for renewals, DNS settings and transfers. Selecting a trusted provider helps ensure your domain remains secure, active and easy to manage as your business grows. Learn more:  How to choose a domain registrar 03. Register your domain Once you’ve chosen a registrar and found your perfect domain name, it’s time to make it official. The registration process usually only takes a few minutes. You’ll need to: Enter your contact and business information. Choose your registration period (typically 1–2 years). Review and confirm ownership details. Pay the registration fee. During registration, it’s smart to enable auto-renewal to prevent accidental expiration — especially since .ai domains can be competitive and may get taken quickly if they lapse. You should also activate domain privacy protection to keep your contact information hidden from public databases, reducing spam and security risks. Learn more:   How to register a domain 04. Build your website Once your .ai domain is registered, you’re ready to build your own website . Connect it to a website builder like Wix, where you can design a professional website without needing to code. Wix makes it easy to: Choose from hundreds of customizable website templates  tailored to startups, tech and AI projects. Use AI-powered design tools to generate layouts and content ideas in seconds. Add built-in SEO features to improve visibility and ranking. Manage everything—from your domain and web hosting t o your content—in one place. Your .ai domain will instantly position your business as part of the modern tech landscape, helping you attract investors, clients or users who associate the extension with innovation. You may also be interested in: I have a domain name, now what? Type of domains What is a parked domain? How to check domain authority .co vs .com domains What is a .ai domain FAQ Is a .ai domain only for businesses in Anguilla? No, anyone can register a .ai domain. While it's the country code for Anguilla, its registration is open to individuals and businesses worldwide, which is why it has become so popular in the tech industry. Are .ai domains good for SEO? Yes, a .ai domain can be good for SEO. Search engines like Google treat ccTLDs like .ai as generic top-level domains, so they don't have a geographic disadvantage. Furthermore, a relevant domain like .ai can increase your click-through rate from search results if users see it as a signal of your site's content. Is the .ai domain trustworthy? The .ai domain is generally considered trustworthy, especially within the tech community. As more high-profile AI companies adopt this extension, its credibility continues to grow. As with any website, trustworthiness is ultimately determined by the quality and security of the site itself, not just its domain. What is the .ai domain used for? The .ai domain is the country code for Anguilla but is widely used by tech companies, startups and AI-focused businesses because it naturally suggests “artificial intelligence.” It's a popular choice for branding, portfolios, apps and tech products looking to highlight innovation or AI relevance. Is .ai a safe domain? Yes, .ai domains are generally safe to use just like any other top-level domain. Security mostly depends on your registrar and hosting provider, so be sure to enable SSL, strong passwords and other standard protections. What is the difference between .com and .ai domains? .com is a generic, globally recognized domain for general purposes, while .ai is a country-code domain that has become popular in tech and AI sectors. Choosing .ai can signal innovation and niche relevance, whereas .com is ideal for broad branding and universal recognition. Is .ai a real domain? Yes, .ai is an official country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Anguilla. Although it’s assigned to a specific country its popularity in the tech and ai space has made it a favorite for brands well beyond Anguilla. Is a .ai domain worth it? If your business or project is tech-focused or AI-related, a .ai domain is a great way to create a modern and innovative brand. It can make your website memorable and relevant in the AI and tech communities. While it may be more expensive than other options, it’s a powerful choice for branding. Is .io or .ai better? Both are popular with tech startups but they convey slightly different impressions. .ai is great for AI-related projects while .io is seen as tech-friendly and versatile across software, apps and gaming. The choice depends on your niche and the branding message you want to send.

  • Cheapest domain extensions and how to find them

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →  If you're looking to buy a domain name , finding the cheapest domain extension that works for your brand can be a challenge. With so many options out there, balancing your perfect domain name extension with your budget and knowing how to avoid unwelcome surprises like costly renewal fees can feel like a bit of a minefield. The cheapest domain extensions  are often newer, alternative top-level domains (TLDs)  like .xyz domain , .online domain and .site domain . These can cost as little as a dollar for the first year, making them a budget-friendly option when you're ready to  - but it’s important to understand the pros and cons involved when you make your decision.. This guide will walk you through how to find an affordable domain extension that aligns with your brand and budget. We'll cover their benefits, potential drawbacks and how to choose the best one when you begin making a website . Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place: business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: what are the cheapest domain extensions? A cheap domain extension is an affordable top-level domain (TLD) you can purchase for your website address. While prices vary, many newer TLDs are available for just a few dollars for the first year. Domain price ranges at a glance TLD category Example extensions Price range (annual) Cheapest .online, .site $0.99 Budget-friendly .xyz, .icu, .top $2 - $20 Mid-range .shop , .co, .org, .info $20 - $50 Premium .com, .io, .ai , .app $50 - $150+ What is a domain extension and why do I need one? A domain extension, also known as a top-level domain (TLD), is the suffix at the end of a web address, like the ".com" in " wix.com ." It helps categorize websites by purpose, geography, or organization type. One common domain name example  is .org, which is often used by non-profits, while country-specific extensions like . co.uk are used for businesses in the United Kingdom. Choosing the right domain extension is important for your brand's credibility and memorability. A familiar extension like .com can build immediate trust with visitors, while a more creative one like .design can signal your industry. Your extension completes your online identity, making it easier for your audience to find and remember you. Learn more: Guide to domain extensions What are the cheapest domain extensions? The cheapest domain extensions are typically newer generic top-level domains (gTLDs). Unlike the classic .com, .org, or .net, these alternatives were introduced to give website owners more options. Because they're less established, registrars often offer them at very low introductory prices, sometimes as low as $1 for the first year. Common examples of cheap domain extensions include: .xyz .online .site .store .tech .space .website .icu Cheapest domain extension renewal  Keep in mind that these low prices are usually just for the first year of registration, so it's important to think beyond that first-year price tag.  Renewal fees can be significantly higher, so you should also check those costs before you commit. Thinking about the long-term cost from the start helps you budget wisely and keep your website running without unexpected expenses down the line. When you're looking for an affordable option for the long haul, consider these domain extensions known for their consistently low renewal fees: .xyz:  Often a frontrunner for both initial purchase and renewal, .xyz is a versatile and budget-friendly choice. .icu:  This extension is another great option if you're looking for low, predictable renewal costs year after year. .top:  True to its name, .top is often at the top of the list for affordability, making it a solid pick for any project. Learn more:  .org vs .com vs .net What’s the best domain extension for a personal website? Is. shop a good domain? Benefits of cheap domain extensions Choosing an inexpensive domain extension comes with several advantages, especially if you're just starting out or working with a tight budget. Cost savings When every dollar counts, getting your domain for a fraction of the price of a .com can free up funds for other important parts of your website, like design or marketing. It's a practical way to get your idea off the ground without a large initial investment. Find out more: How much does a domain name cost? Create a unique and memorable web address Since so many .com names are already taken, a newer TLD might let you secure the exact name you want. An extension like .tech for a technology blog or .store for an eCommerce site clearly communicates your purpose to visitors before they even click. "Shorter domains can be easier to remember and type, but they aren't essential. What matters most is that your domain accurately represents your brand and is memorable." - Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix Perfect for short-term projects  If you're setting up a landing page for a specific event, running a temporary marketing campaign, or just testing out a new business idea, you don't need to spend a lot on a domain you might not use for long. Research from ICANN shows that the number of registered gTLDs is growing, indicating a wider acceptance and use of these alternatives. Cheapest domain extensions for multi-year registration When you plan to keep your website for the long haul, registering a domain for multiple years can be a smart financial move. Many registrars offer lower annual rates when you commit to a longer term, which can lead to significant savings. While the specific deals change, some extensions consistently offer good value on multi-year plans. Extensions like .online, .xyz and .site often have low introductory prices that can be locked in for several years. For example, you might find a deal to register .xyz for under a dollar a year if you pay for five or ten years upfront. Similarly, newer TLDs are frequently promoted with deep discounts on longer registration periods to encourage adoption. Before you commit, compare the total cost over the registration period across different registrars to ensure you're getting the best possible price. Explore more: I have a domain name, now what? Should I use $1 domains and 99-cent domains? Domains for $1 or even 99 cents can be tempting, and they are a legitimate way to secure a web address on a minimal budget. These ultra-low prices are promotional offers from domain registrars designed to attract new customers. They’re great for getting a project online quickly and cheaply. For example, a student might use a 99-cent domain for a portfolio site, or a small business could use one to test a new product idea with a dedicated landing page. These domains are fully functional, just like any other. However, be sure to read the fine print. The low price is almost always a first-year introductory rate. Renewal fees can jump to $10, $20 or even more per year. Make sure you're aware of the long-term cost before you register. If your project is temporary, it's a fantastic deal. If you plan to keep the site for years, factor the renewal price into your budget. Find out more about the most expensive domain names . Common challenges of cheap domain extensions While cheap domain name extensions offer great value, they also come with a few potential challenges. Renewal shock That $1 domain can renew at $20 or more the following year. This is a common business model for domain registrars , but it can catch new website owners by surprise. Always check the renewal price, which should be clearly listed during the checkout process. Find out more: How to choose a domain registrar Best domain registrars Trust and perception Because .com is so familiar, some users might be wary of less common extensions. A recent study   explores how users misunderstand domain structure, especially unfamiliar top-level domains, and how these misconceptions can lead to mistakes. Users often have a mental idea of what a URL should look like, so unfamiliar TLDs can sometimes be perceived as less credible or secure. This is becoming less of an issue as more alternative TLDs appear, but it's something to consider for B2B companies where trust is paramount, like finance or healthcare. However, for other types of website e.g. portfolio, blog, events etc., these concerns may be less relevant. ‘Spam’ association Some cheap TLDs have been associated with spam or low-quality sites. This can lead to your emails being flagged as spam more easily. Building a reputable site and following email marketing best practices can help mitigate this, but it’s a hurdle that a .com domain is less likely to face. Examples of cheap domain extensions Wondering how these domains look in the real world? Here are a few examples of how you can use cheap domain extensions creatively: For a personal blog:   adventures.online For a freelance developer's portfolio:   markus.tech For a pop-up eCommerce shop:   summerthreads.store For an artist's gallery:   sarahchen.art For a community group:   ourneighborhood.space These examples show how the extension itself can add context and personality to the domain name. They are memorable, descriptive and, best of all, affordable. You may also be interested in: most popular domain extensions . Are ccTLDs a good option when looking for a cheap domain extension? Country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs)—like .uk domain , .ca domain , .in domain or .de domain —can sometimes be affordable, but they aren’t always the best choice when your goal is strictly to find the cheapest  domain extension.  Pricing varies widely by country, and some ccTLDs come with extra requirements, like proving residency or having a local business, which can add cost or complexity. While a few country code domains are competitively priced, many popular ones—such as .io, .co and .tv —are actually among the more expensive options because they’re used globally by tech companies, creators and startups. If you’re on a tight budget, newer generic top-level domain extensions (gTLDs) like .xyz, .online or .site usually offer the lowest first-year prices and fewer restrictions. ccTLDs remain great for building local trust or targeting a specific geographic audience, but they're not typically the most cost-effective choice if you simply want the cheapest possible domain. Where do cheap domains work well? A great domain name doesn't have to come with a high price tag. In fact, some of the most effective and affordable domain extensions are those that speak directly to a specific industry or purpose. These niche domains help you connect with your audience right away by telling them exactly what you do. They are a smart and budget-friendly way to get the perfect web address. Think of these domains as a quick introduction. Before anyone even clicks on your site, they have an idea of what to expect. This is a great way to attract the right visitors and build a memorable brand. Perfect for portfolios and creative projects If you're a creative professional, a specific domain extension can instantly signal your area of expertise. It acts as a signpost for potential clients, letting them know they've come to the right place. This clarity can make all the difference. For example, the .photography domain is an excellent choice for photographers. It’s clear, direct and professional. Instead of a generic address, your URL becomes part of your branding. Similarly, extensions like .art , .design or .media work wonderfully for artists, designers and media professionals looking to present their work. They are often inexpensive and add a professional touch for a portfolio website . Ideal for eCommerce and retail When you're selling products, your domain name can be a powerful tool. An extension like .shop or .store immediately tells visitors you're open for business. It removes any guesswork and gets customers in the right mindset to browse and buy. These extensions are great for all kinds of retail businesses, from small boutiques to larger online stores. They are easy for customers to remember and can create a strong association with your brand. Using a domain like yourbrand.shop   is a clear and effective way to build your business and attract shoppers without spending a fortune on your web address. Other options like .forsale can also work well, depending on what you're selling. By choosing a domain that fits your business, you're setting yourself up for success from day one. 5 steps to find the cheapest domain extension that works for you When looking for the cheapest domain extensions, do your research thoroughly: Compare prices across the board, check out any deals and renewal rate options, and see what other cost-saving possibilities there are, including bundling for hosting, and registering for multiple years.  Finding an affordable domain extension doesn't have to be complicated. By following a few simple steps, you can secure a great web address that fits your budget. Here’s a breakdown of the process: Choose a professional website builder Brainstorm domain names and extensions Compare pricing and renewal rates Look for bundles and promotions Register your domain 01. Choose a professional website builder Before you start your search for a domain, it's helpful to choose a website builder . Many platforms, like Wix, offer domain registration as part of their service, often including a free domain for the first year when you sign up for a premium plan. This simplifies the process by keeping your website hosting and domain management all in one place. Using an all-in-one solution means you won’t have to deal with the technical task of connecting a domain you bought elsewhere to your website host. Wix makes it easy to find and register available domain extensions, providing recommendations relevant to your industry or location. Find out more: Is Wix a domain registrar? 02. Brainstorm domain names and extensions Start by thinking about what you want your website domain  name to communicate. It should be memorable, easy to spell and representative of your brand or business. Make a list of potential names. Once you have a few ideas, you can start exploring different domain extensions. While .com domain  is the most recognized TLD, it's not your only option. There are hundreds of extensions available, from standards like .net   and .org to newer ones like .shop , .blog or .app. Consider which extension best fits your niche. For example, a photographer might benefit from a .photography domain  extension, while a tech startup could use .io. Pro tip:  Use Wix's  domain name generator   to instantly generate creative and relevant name ideas. It uses smart suggestions to help you find a domain that stands out — including available .ai options. 03. Compare pricing and renewal rates Domain extension prices can vary significantly. Some newer or more niche TLDs might have low introductory prices but much higher renewal rates. It's important to look beyond the first-year cost and consider the long-term expense. A domain that seems cheap initially could become costly over time. When comparing, check the registration price for the first year and the annual renewal fee. Some registrars offer multi-year discounts, which can save you money if you're confident about your choice. Be transparent about the total cost of ownership to avoid any surprises down the line. Find out more:   Best domain registrars   04. Look for bundles and promotions One of the best ways to get a cheap domain extension is by taking advantage of bundles and promotions. As mentioned earlier, many website builders like Wix include a free domain name for the first year with the purchase of an annual premium plan. This is a great deal for anyone building a new website from scratch. Keep an eye out for special offers from domain registrars, especially around holidays or major sales events. These promotions can provide significant savings, but always read the fine print to understand the terms and renewal costs. Find out more: I want to buy a domain name 05. Register your domain Once you've found the perfect name and an affordable extension, it's time to register it. The registration process is straightforward. You’ll need to provide your contact information, which will be added to the WHOIS database—a public record of domain ownership. Many registrars offer domain privacy protection, which masks your personal information for an additional fee. After registering your domain, you'll need to connect it to your website. If you registered your domain through your website builder, this step is often handled automatically. If not, you'll need to update your domain's DNS (Domain Name System)  settings to point to your website's server. Learn more: How to register a domain name Does Wix offer free domains? Choosing a domain name is one of the first exciting steps in learning how to go about building a website . With so many cheap domain extensions available, you don’t have to let a tight budget stop you from getting started. By balancing low initial costs with long-term value, you can find the perfect name that fits both your brand and your wallet. When you're ready to take the next step, you can find and register your ideal domain name right here with Wix. We provide domain extensions for any industry or geography, making it simple to find a web address that's just right for you. When you sign up for a yearly or multi-year Premium Plan, Wix provides a   free domain   voucher for the first year. This means you can secure a custom domain name, like   yourbusiness.com , without paying extra upfront. After the first year, standard renewal rates apply.  Cheapest domain extensions FAQ What is the cheapest domain extension? The price of domain extensions changes frequently due to promotions and registrar pricing. Typically, extensions like .xyz, .online and .site are among the most affordable, often costing just a few dollars for the first year. However, it's important to check their renewal rates, as they can be significantly higher. Is it worth getting a cheaper domain extension? A cheaper domain extension can be a good option, especially if you're on a tight budget. As long as the extension is relevant to your brand and easy for your audience to remember, it can be just as effective as a more expensive one. The most important factor is having a professional and functional website that your domain leads to. Can I get a domain extension for free? Yes, you can often get a domain extension for free for the first year. Many website builders, including Wix, offer a free domain name as part of their annual premium plans. This is an excellent way to reduce upfront costs when starting a new website. Is it a good idea to use a cheap domain for a business? Yes, it can be a great idea, especially for new businesses, startups, or niche online stores. A cheap domain lowers your initial costs and can offer better name availability. Just be sure to check the renewal fees and choose an extension that aligns with your brand. Will a cheap domain extension hurt my SEO? No, Google has stated that all TLDs are treated equally in search rankings. What matters most for SEO is the quality of your content, your site's user experience and your backlink profile—not the price of your domain.

  • Can I buy a domain name permanently?

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain→  No, you can't buy a domain name forever. Domain names are registered for specific time periods, ranging from one to ten years depending on the extension and name. While you can use a domain name indefinitely you need to renew it consistently in order to do so. Why can't you buy a domain name forever? Lifetime ownership is blocked by ICANN, who oversees the global ownership and management of domains. Allowing a domain name to be bought permanently could lead to the hoarding of names or unauthorized entities buying and controlling large amounts of domains, which could impact their domain cost and availability. Your domain is more than just a web address; it’s the first impression of your online brand. With Wix, finding the perfect domain name is easy. Wix helps you secure the name for your business, blog, portfolio or any online presence, so you can focus on bringing your project to life. Ready to claim yours? TL;DR: Can I buy a domain name permanently? You can’t buy a domain forever, but you can lease it for 1–10 years and make it yours to use. Just remember to renew on time, as missed renewals deactivate your domain, meaning your website and email will stop working. If that happens, don’t panic. You have a 65-day window to get it back: Stage Duration What happens Grace period 30 days You can renew normally without extra fees. Redemption period 30 days Domain can still be recovered, but may incur a fee. Pre-deletion 5 days Domain is scheduled to be released to the public. While permanent ownership isn’t possible, with timely renewals, your domain can stay yours for as long as you need it. Expert tip from Ofir Gvili, domains PMM at Wix: “Domains are like digital real estate: the right name can grow in value as your brand grows. Choose wisely now and you’ll thank yourself later when your online identity feels timeless and recognizable.” What is domain name ownership? At the center of owning a domain permanently lies the concept of domain name ownership. This is the legal right to use a specific domain name. When you learn how to register a domain , you're essentially leasing it for a predetermined period. This lease grants you the exclusive right to use the domain name as long as you continue to renew it. It's important to note that owning a domain name does not equate to owning the internet real estate it's more like renting space on the web. Another part of domain name ownerships lies with ICANN. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN ) plays an important role in domain registration and ownership. As a global organization, ICANN coordinates the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to domain names on the internet. It's the body that ensures each domain name is unique and properly registered, preventing conflicts and duplication. Domain registrars like Wix are accredited by ICANN to register domain names. These registrars provide services, such as domain name searches, WHOIS lookup and domain registration, that allow individuals and businesses to choose and buy a domain. They offer various features such as privacy protection, DNS management and renewal options. When it comes to using a domain name long term, choosing a reliable registrar is crucial for the smooth management of your domain name. A reliable registrar offers robust security measures, user-friendly interfaces and responsive customer support, which are vital for maintaining control over your domain for as long as you can. Learn more: Best domain registrars How to register a domain name and keep it Choose a domain name : Start by learning how to choose a domain name that reflects your business identity and that's easy to remember. Check availability : Use a registrar's domain name search tool to check if your domain name is available. If it's taken, consider alternative names or different extensions. Select a registrar : Choose a reliable domain registrar, look for features such as customer support, pricing and additional services like business email . Register your domain : Once you've selected your registrar, proceed with the registration process. You'll need to provide personal information and choose the registration period. Configure DNS settings : After registration, configure your DNS settings to point your domain to your website's hosting server. If you register your domain with Wix, this step is take care of for you. Verify ownership : Complete any necessary verification steps required by the registrar to confirm your ownership of the domain. If you're looking for long term ownership of your domain name because it's important for your brand and business, we recommend choosing and registering a domain with a registrar like Wix. Why? Because choosing your domain and registering it with the same organization as where you build your website means you don't have to worry about the rest of your website infrastructure when understanding how to create a website ( web hosting , website security) and you know there are robust alert systems in place when it comes time to renew your domain. This makes it less likely you'll have its registration lapse and you can use it long term. Ready to get a website domain name ? Get started with Wix today. What is long term domain name registration? Long-term domain registration involves securing a domain name for an extended period, typically beyond the standard one-year term. However the maximum is generally no more than ten years at a time. This offers several benefits, including a reduced risk of losing your domain due to expiration and potential cost savings from multi-year discounts. It also means you don't have to be on top of your domain renewal every year or so. For domain names with .com , .net and .org extensions, Wix offers renewal options for up to ten years. The options include every 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 years. It's important to understand however that the concept of lifetime domain name ownership doesn't exist. Some services may claim to provide lifetime registration, but they often involve complex terms or rely on emerging technologies like blockchain. When considering these options, it's vital to evaluate their legitimacy and ensure they align with your business goals and legal requirements. Learn more: .org vs .com vs .net How to choose a domain name that works long term Choosing a domain name that you use for a long time, is not just about how to register and renew it. It's also about choosing a name that you can use for your business and brand long term too. This means you want to choose a name that is available, of course but also one that is: Memorable, easy to remember (usually this means nothing too long, easy to pronounce). Expert tip from Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix: "Shorter domains can be easier to remember and type, but they aren't essential. What matters most is that your domain accurately represents your brand and is memorable." You can think unique, as you want to stand out with your domain as a brand, or at least create something that helps you be trusted. Not offensive, including culturally appropriate. Reflects your brand first and foremost, both in the short and long term. It can be tempting to opt for something quirky when you're just starting a business but think about where you want to grow with it long term and if it will still work once you're a bigger company or one with a wider range of offerings. Ready to take the next step? Create a website for free and bring your ideas to life. 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. Can I buy a domain name permanently? FAQ How do I protect my domain from squatters? Once you register a domain, make sure to renew it on time—missed renewals are the main way squatters get hold of domains. You can also enable domain privacy and lock your domain through your registrar to make it harder for anyone to transfer or hijack it. Choosing a unique, brandable name can also reduce the risk of squatting. How much does a one-time domain cost? Domains aren’t purchased just once; they’re leased yearly. Costs vary depending on the domain extension (like .com, .net or .co) and registrar, typically ranging from $10–$50 per year. Some premium domains cost more, but you’ll always pay annual renewals to keep your domain active.

  • The best website builders for coaches in 2026

    Build your website in minutes, try Wix for free today → Looking for the best website builder for your coaching business? Whether you're a life coach, business consultant or wellness expert, the right platform can help you create a professional website quickly and affordably. In this article, we’ll step into the position of coach (just for a moment) to give you expert guidance on choosing the best coaching website builder. From drag-and-drop website builders to AI website builders , from simple website design  to sophisticated and business-savvy tools—our diverse roundup includes seven top-picks. We’ve reviewed each of these platforms, highlighting stand-out design features, user experien ce, pricing, business tools and more.  Learn more about how to build a website from scratch . When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you.  TL;DR: best website builders for coaches Whether you're exploring how to make a coaching website  for the first time or you're ready to upgrade your online presence, this guide breaks down seven of the best platforms for coaching websites. Each one supports your business differently—whether you’re just getting started, scaling a growing practice or looking to monetize your expertise through courses or communities. Use the table below to quickly compare features and find the coaching website builder that aligns with your style, budget and business goals. Website builder Best for Starting price (annual) Wix All-in-one branding and business growth Free plan available; Premium plans start at $17/month Kajabi Community-building and authority positioning Paid plans start at $71/month Teachable Monetizing knowledge via courses Paid plans start at $29/month Showit Visual branding and full design freedom Free 14-day trial; paid plans start at $19/month Strikingly New coaches on a budget Free and paid plans; paid plans start at $16/month Weblium Small business coaches ready to scale Free and paid plans; paid plans start at $5.78/month Thinkific Professional coaches offering courses Free trial available; paid plans start at $36/month Editor's note: Pricing information is updated as of November 25th, 2025. Expert tip from Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead at Wix: "As a business owner or entrepreneur, you’re wearing multiple hats. Building a brand, managing your website, handling domain, hosting, SEO, marketing and everything in between to keep the business running. When you're running the show solo, choosing a website builder that makes it all that easy and intuitive—while still delivering expert-level results—can be a total game changer. The 7 best website builders for coaches Now that you know what to look for in a platform, let’s explore the 7 best website builders for coaches. Each of these tools can help you build a site that not only looks great, but actively supports your business goals—whether that’s offering 1:1 sessions, expanding into online courses or learning how to start a coaching blog  to boost your visibility. From beginner-friendly options to scalable solutions, these platforms give you the tools you need to grow, connect and discover how to make money as a coach  online. Wix   Kajabi   Teachable   Showit   Strikingly Weblium Thinkific   01. Wix  TL;DR: Best for ambitious coaches ready to build, brand and scale professionally, who refuse to compromise on design or functionality.  When it comes to the best small business website builders , there’s a reason Wix stands out as a top choice across the board. Offering quality design, must-have features and excellent technical support, the platform is known for balancing trendy web design with enterprise-scale growth potential. Coaches with the goal of building their brand and business at any stage will appreciate making a website with Wix.  There’s no learning curve, but your visitors would never know it. The platform offers one of the most flexible experiences for building a website available, offering a drag-and-drop  interface, thousands of website templates and an AI-assisted editor. Whichever way you choose to start, you can customize your site almost endlessly with Wix—and manage it on your own as your business grows.   Why Wix works for coaches Wix combines tools for cost-effective website creation, business management, brand-building and scalability , all into one platform. If you’re just starting a coaching business, for example, you’ll appreciate its free blog maker  or color palette pairing tool. Wix’s business website suite also offers endless ways to find the perfect domain name —from a domain name generator to domain name search tools—while knowledge-driven resources from experts and visual inspiration from other Wix users are readily available to guide every step of your venture.  The platform is also designed for consistent (and quality) business management. Wix’s scheduling software, online payment processing and customer management system are built-in to give ample support to you and your customers. Client bookings and payments happen directly on your site, and you can automate communication using email or live chat—this way, you’ll focus less on administration, and more on providing your amazing coaching services.  When it comes to your business’s growth, you can definitely count on the platform’s emphasis on marketing. Wix always seem to have their finger on the pulse of the latest digital marketing necessities, making sure their users can grow while providing detailed web analytics  to measure success. Wix customers benefit from features like email marketing, business listings, social media integration, online advertising and more. Expect top-notch SEO support, too—Wix websites are built with SEO best practices in mind, and tools like its SEO Learning Hub help users customize their SEO settings.  Key features of this coaching website builder A large collection of industry-specific coaching website templates Built-in bookings system and payment processing  Components for how to start a blog  and developing online courses   Detailed website analytics and small business insights  Marketing tools that are up-to-date with the latest business trends Custom landing page builders and sign-up forms  Multilingual website capabilities for businesses with an international presence Extensive resources and Wix customer support  Mobile website design and  mobile app creation  Custom domain names, including .coach domain names Built-in branding tools Wix pricing: Wix offers a free plan. Wix Premium Plans start at $17/month (billed annually), with month-to-month billing also available. Here’s a breakdown of the costs, billed annually: Light ($17/month): Ideal for basic website needs, including an SSL certificate , SEO tools, two GB storage, two collaborators, one-year free domain, Google Ads credits and up to four lead forms. Core ($14.5/month): Perfect for growing businesses, adding 50 GB storage, up to five collaborators, ten lead forms, basic analytics, payment processing, social sales, bookings and event management. Business ($19.5/month): Best for enhancing online presence, with 100 GB storage, ten collaborators, 75 lead forms, standard analytics, eCommerce tools, automated discounts and back-in-stock notifications. Business Elite ($79.5/month): For scaling, with unlimited storage, 15 collaborators, 100 lead forms, advanced analytics, priority support, enhanced eCommerce and a full-featured developer platform. Learn more: Coaching business name ideas Coaching slogans Coaching website examples Wix vs Wix Studio What is web design? 02. Kajabi  TL;DR: Best for established coaches ready to transform into thought leaders and build communities. Kajabi is especially popular among coaches in the health, wellness, lifestyle and business sectors. It’s successful in giving these business owners tools to strategize long-term growth, and particularly suits coaches ready to pursue course creation and community building. The platform emphasizes technical tools needed to branch out from one-on-one coaching, making it easy to create comprehensive course offerings, membership tiers and coaching packages.   Compared to Wix, this drag-and-drop tool doesn’t deliver the same level of design flexibility. Instead, Kajabi delivers polished, conversion-focused templates that prioritize function over endless customization. Their template collection may be more modest, but it boasts diverse aesthetic styles and delivers some gorgeous, modern website designs . Kajabi’s template packages cater to specific business goals, using detailed content blocks, layouts and features optimized for digital products, webinars or sales funnels, for example.  Why Kajabi works for coaches Kajabi stands out for professional coaches by focusing on how to grow and monetize the community that’s hooked on your personal brand. Transformative features encourage users to broaden their services, giving them the functionality to host virtual meetings, live workshops, group sessions, coaching cohorts or corporate teams who want to learn together.  Key features of this coaching website builder Ready-made website templates Landing page templates and built-in sign-up forms   Built-in bookings system and payment processing  Supports group meetings, online course and interactive workshops Website and behavioral analytics SEO support Marketing tools like email campaigns, blogging and social media app integrations User-friendly resources for how to use their product, such as free guides and webinars Multilingual capabilities for businesses with an international presence Customer support and help center Mobile website design and mobile app creation  Custom domain names  Kajabi pricing: Kajabi offers paid plans starting at $71/month (billed annually). 03. Teachable TL;DR: Best for knowledge-driven coaches ready to build recurring revenue through digital products.  Teachable is a website builder uniquely crafted to build scalable and recurring revenue streams from your coaching expertise. For coaches ready to diversify their audience and maximize income—beyond hourly coaching sessions—the platform’s products and marketing arsenal can empower you to package and monetize your knowledge.  The website editor itself prioritizes ease-of-use, providing users with a drag-and-drop interface. Using Teachable’s education-centric layouts, you’ll have less template options and control over customization compared to a platform like Wix. However, this simplicity comes with a purpose: the platform aims for consistent design to give you a quick, streamlined set-up for usability, making it possible to personalize your content with logos, custom headers, color schemes, fonts and media.  Why Teachable works for coaches Teachable has all the functionality you need to host private or small-group coaching sessions online—including integrated bookings, payment systems and customer management. Its customer management system ( CMS ) provides extra support and personal touches to build a deeper connection with clients between sessions. From one dashboard, you can help them stay on track with their goals by sending materials, setting up automated reminders and providing online intake forms for quick onboarding.   Key features of this coaching website builder A large collection of industry-specific coaching website templates Built-in bookings and payments system with membership capabilities Online course website templates  AI tools for content creation Marketing tools like email campaigns, custom landing pages and lead capture forms Analytics and reporting  Extensive resources for coaches, including business guides and an accelerator program for selling online courses Mobile website design and mobile app creation  SEO friendly  Custom domain names  Teachable pricing: Paid plans start at $29/month (billed annually). Learn more: Best website builders for teachers How to start a teaching blog How to make a teaching portfolio AI portfolio examples Membership website builders 04. Showit TL;DR: Best for brand-conscious coaches who want more design control to create an authentic and memorable online presence.  Showit stands out for its user-friendly interface, eye-catching design features and supportive resources—helping coaches at any stage leverage their personality into the biggest marketing asset. While other coaching website builders invest more in simple website creation, Showit focuses on giving coaches professional-grade design freedom to make an unforgettable brand and online presence. Their philosophy is simple: you should love your website, and it should be as unique and authentic as your coaching approach.  Whether you’re a wellness coach who needs a serene, organic web design or a business coach who wants bold, authoritative aesthetics—Showit provides a complete visual toolkit to design according to your coaching personality. The platform’s drag-and-drop editor is described as “anything but cookie-cutter,” breaking free from rigid content blocks to provide pixel-perfect control. Bridging the gap between design and marketing psychology, the platform’s emphasis on design freedom is part of a bigger goal: how authentically your coaching website represents your personal brand. Why Showit works for coaching websites Showit gives you tools to build trust with visitors, and a growing revenue, too. Custom fonts and web animations create an unforgettable first impression, while strategically placed pop-up forms can be used to capture leaves. Not all of Showit’s business tools are featured within the platform itself, but the tool integrates seamlessly with third-party software for booking, payments, email marketing and client management.  Key features of this coaching website builder Marketing integrations with social media apps, email marketing apps and more SEO friendly  Highly customized mobile website design  Integration with Google Analytics  Booking system and payment app integrations  Connect custom domain name  Notable customer service Integrates with marketing tools  Mobile website optimization  Showit pricing: Showit offers a free 14-day trial, with paid pricing plans after that. Paid plans start at $19/month (billed annually). 05. Strikingly TL;DR: Best for new coaches who need a simple, budget-friendly website up and running fast.  If you’re just starting your coaching business and want to quickly establish your online presence, Strikingly offers a fast, beginner-friendly way to get a professional site online. With straightforward visual features and simple customization options, it’s a great choice for launching quickly and affordably—without a steep learning curve. That said, Strikingly is best suited for early-stage websites or more streamlined needs. While it may not offer the advanced design flexibility or business tools found on some other platforms, it delivers exactly what many new coaches need: a clean, functional site that’s easy to set up and manage. As your coaching practice grows, you may eventually look for additional features like course creation, deeper customization or expanded content options—but Strikingly remains a solid starting point for getting your brand online with confidence. Why Strikingly works for coaches While Strikingly’s design flexibility is limited, you’ll have enough customization options to reflect the essence of your personal brand. For example, you can upload photos, add your own content, include a logo or add a testimonials section to your site. Contact forms and basic audience management tools make it possible to streamline sign-ups, provide in-take forms or capture leads for communication—however, the platform is not equipped with technology for online calls, scheduling or payments without upgrades and third-party tools.  Key features of this coaching website builder Website templates with an emphasis on one-page sites and landing pages Integrates with third-party booking tools  Quick set up for landing pages highlighting a specific service  You can create a simple blog  Built-in SEO foundations Custom domain connection  Support online payment software integration Marketing integrations available  Website analytics  Strikingly pricing: Strikingly offers both free and paid plans, with paid plans starting at $16/month (billed annually). Learn more: Best one-page website builders Best landing page builders Best AI landing page builders Multi page website vs one-page website Best one-page websites Landing page vs website 06. Weblium TL;DR: Best for growing small-business coaches who want professional sophistication without overwhelming complexity.  Weblium is a website builder that’s perfect for coaches who have outgrown basic builders, but aren’t quite ready for endless customization or scaling their business offering.   The platform has gained popularity thanks to its appeal for small business owners, delivering professional website designs that don’t overwhelm you in the process.  Its template collection is full of business-oriented layouts, with straightforward designs catered to life coaches, relationship coaches and business coaches. Their editor includes all the essential elements for a coaching website: compelling hero sections, services showcases, testimonial displays and contact forms. They may be simple, but not generic—designed to let you input your own elements to help you establish your personal brand, while providing essential functionality for converting visitors into clients.   Why Weblium works for coaching websites  For small business owners, Weblium is a great option because it bridges the gap between affordable and advanced web design . Although it lacks native booking software, it integrates seamlessly with apps like Calendly and popular payment processors to make scheduling easier for your clients. Its built-in CRM can manage client inquiries, while providing an ongoing list of contacts in one dashboard.  Key features of this coaching website builder A collection of 300+ professionally designed templates AI tools for content creation Integrates with booking and payments software Custom landing pages and contact forms Website analytics  Foundational SEO setup Automatic mobile website design Customer support Connect custom domain names  Weblium pricing: Weblium offers both free and paid plans, with paid plans starting at $5.78/month (billed annually). 07. Thinkific TL;DR: Best for established coaching professionals ready to transform their expertise into structured online courses with engaged student communities. When you’re ready to branch out beyond individual coaching sessions, Thinkific has everything you need to turn into a course creator. Whether you want to train new coaches or educate your clients through structured programs, Thinkific provides the complete infrastructure for an outstanding learning environment. From one-off courses to monthly or yearly memberships, Thinkific lets you manage courses, students, material and communities from one dashboard. Whether you need a simple landing page for course sign-ups, or a comprehensive educational hub, Thinkific’s professional templates and AI editor make setup effortless. The platform’s real power emerges in its course delivery options—a suite of tools that includes interactive quizzes, automated learning notifications, achievement rewards, live-streamed sessions and mobile app access—everything you need to create a learning experience that keeps students engaged and on-track.  Why Thinkific works for coaches If course creation sounds like an interesting path for your coaching business, Thinkific is a tool that can scale your website seamlessly as you grow with this endeavor. Its well-equipped CRM keeps you organized and maintains consistent communication with students, while marketing features like coupons, upsells and email integrations maximize your revenue potential with course launch. Key features of this coaching website builder  Built-in payment processing Live streaming capabilities  AI tools for content creation Integrates with booking and payments software Custom landing pages and contact forms Website analytics  Mobile website and mobile app  Foundational SEO setup Customer support Connect custom domain names  Thinkific pricing: Thinkific offers a free trial, paid plans start at $36/month (billed annually). Editor's note: Pricing information is updated as of November 25th, 2025. What are key features to look for in a website builder for coaches?  Our goal is to help you find the best coaching website builder to match your personality, style, budget and business goals. First and foremost, we’ve highlighted beginner-friendly tools that deliver quality visual results. But a website for coaches is the one of the  types of website  that needs more than just a platform with aesthetic and user-friendly features. The ideal coaching website builder merges these foundations with effective tools and functionality to help you accomplish three important goals: Establish authority : Your website should position your coaching business as a trusted service and present your personal brand effectively to make it clear that you’re an expert in your field. Bring more traffic : The right platform will include built-in SEO features  and other promotional tools to get more visitors and improve your chances of attracting clients. Convert visitors into clients : Lead capture forms, booking software and an appointment scheduler  are essential for turning new visitors into actual clients. With the above criteria in mind, there are specific features we looked out for when rounding up our review of the best coaching website builders. Coaching website templates Quality website templates  are the perfect starting point for a coaching website, with ready-made layouts and built-in sections tailored to a coaching business—for example, services testimonials , photo galleries and scheduling. We prioritized platforms that offer both coaching website templates  and wellness website templates , so you can streamline the design process while aligning with your niche. SEO-friendly support If your website ranks well for queries like “life coaches near me,” you can capture people at the exact moment they’re ready to invest in your services. We focused on platforms that offer robust SEO features , giving you the technical groundwork to compete for high-intent searches—these are the ones most likely to convert into bookings. Customization to reflect your brand Success when learning how to start a coaching business  depends on the strength of your personal brand. From custom color schemes  to typography  and logo design , these elements create a distinct presence that sets you apart from other coaches. We highlighted platforms that allow deeper customization than the average drag-and-drop website builder , giving you the freedom to express your unique coaching personality online. Booking and payment software An integrated appointment scheduler and payment solution can transform your website into a self-sufficient business hub. Whether built-in or via third-party integrations, this feature is crucial for handling client bookings and collecting payments efficiently. Marketing features Combined with strategic  marketing strategies , your website can become a powerful revenue driver. We prioritized builders that offer email marketing , lead capture forms, advertising integrations and social media tools—all of which help attract and retain clients. Built-in website analytics  allow you to track performance and refine your coaching marketing  over time. How we reviewed the platforms on this list  Real user insights: We dove deep into authentic reviews from actual coaches and web design professionals, analyzing various testimonials to understand what works (and what doesn’t) for real-world coaching businesses. Expert ratings gave us the technical perspective, while user experiences revealed more about the day-to-day reality of these tools.   Hands-on testing : When possible, I rolled up my sleeves and tested these platforms firsthand through trials and premium subscriptions. There’s no substitute for actually building websites, testing booking flows and experiencing the user journey your potential clients will navigate.  Coaching-specific focus: Generic website builders may not cut it for your coaching business. We evaluated how each platform handles the unique needs of coaches—from booking tools and client management to online streaming features and more. Our goal was to prioritize platforms that grow with your business, so you won’t outgrow your website builders as your coaching practice expands.   “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.” - Sharon Hafuta, SEO blog editor at Wix Check out more reviews of website builders that can support your business online:  Best AI website builders  Free website builders  Cheap website builders Best website builders for freelancers Best website builders for consulting businesses Best website builders Best mobile website builders Best responsive website builders Best low-code no-code website builders Understanding the costs of the best website builders for coaches Beyond giving you design, business and marketing tools, the best coaching website builders factor in the costs of many back-end processes. To give you a better understanding of what’s included, here’s a look at some of the technical processes we often take for granted when choosing an all-in-one website creation solution.  Domain name connection   A domain name  is your site’s web address, and every website that’s published live on the internet has one. Acting as an important element for both your site’s branding and technical setup, a domain includes both its name and top-level domain (also known as TLD—that’s the .com  in Wix.com , for example). All of the coaching website builders in our list give you the option of connecting a domain (whether included in a paid plan or as an upgrade), handling the technical setup of linking your site to your web address for you.  With a free plan, website builders will provide you with a branded subdomain (for example, free users on Wix will get: yoursite.wixsite.com .). But the best option is using a custom domain. This should include your business’s name and a relevant or niche-specific TLD, such as .com , .net , or .coach . “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.” - Alan Carr, creative director at Webpop Design Learn more: What is top-level domain Web hosting  For your website to function completely, it requires web hosting . Website hosting is what provides your site with the necessary infrastructure to store your site’s files and content, make them available on the internet and deliver to your website visitors. While the capacity, speed and quality varies according to your platform, each of the coaching website builders we’ve included above provide free web hosting . This way, it makes the process of how to host a website  properly so easy, you don’t have to worry about the fees or communications with a third-party hosting provider—in fact, you really don’t have to think twice about it.  Website security  Website security  is incorporated into the platforms listed above, providing your website’s data, content and infrastructure with the protection needed to prevent threats. You can’t put a price on the peace of mind you get from knowing your site’s security is managed with real-time detection and quick responses.   “The topics of data protection and security are close to Wix’s heart. Therefore, all websites and online shops you create with Wix are automatically encrypted with an SSL certificate so you can be sure that all your users' data is secure and protected at all times.” - Elisa Drescher, external data protection officer for SaaS, start-ups, SMEs Website performance  A successful website goes hand-in-hand with quality performance, which is one the biggest factors when it comes to user experience. Website performance  ultimately refers to how consistent and fast your site delivers content to visitors. The best website builders support speedy loading times, so your customers don’t have to wait for content to display, along with solid site reliability  that provides as close to a 100% uptime  as possible.   Quick tips for using a coaching website builder  We wanted to wrap up by giving you some simple pointers for designing your site with a coaching website builder. For a deeper overview and step-by-step process, check out our guide on how to make your coaching website.   Tip What to do Purpose Clarify your focus Define your services, target audience and coaching goals Help share your content and design around what your clients actually need Build engaging pages Create purposeful pages with strong CTAs and relevant content Keeps visitors interested and encourages them to take action What a compelling slogan Add a memorable phrase near your site's header Reinforces your mission and instantly communicates your value Optimize for mobile Use responsive design and test your site on different devices Ensures a seamless experience for the majority of users browsing on mobile Make it accessible Follow accessibility best practices like alt text and color contrast Expands your audience and supports legal compliance Start a blog Share tips, insights and updates via a blog Builds trust, boosts SEO and helps clients get to know you better Launch with confidence Use a launch checklist to review every element of your coaching website Prevents technical or UX issues from getting in the way of a strong first impression   Best website builders for coaches FAQ What is the best website builder for coaches? The best website builder for coaches depends on your goals, budget and technical comfort. Wix is a top all-in-one choice, offering design flexibility, built-in tools like an appointment scheduler, SEO features and coaching website templates. How do I build a website for coaching? Start by choosing a coaching website builder that suits your needs. Select a template, add your logo and content, highlight your services and integrate tools like booking forms or email marketing. Platforms like Wix include everything from SEO tools to website analytics, making it easy to manage your site even as you scale. Can I make money from a coaching website? Absolutely. Your coaching website can serve as your primary sales tool. Use it to book sessions, sell digital products or courses, build your email list or start a coaching blog that brings in traffic. Combine marketing strategies with strong CTAs to convert visitors into clients and revenue. Do I need technical skills to build a coaching website? No. Modern coaching website builders are designed for non-technical users. Drag-and-drop editors, AI-powered website tools and pre-designed templates make it simple to create a professional site without any coding experience. What pages should a coaching website include? At a minimum, include a homepage, About page, Services page, Contact page and a Booking or Schedule page. Adding testimonials, FAQs or a blog can increase trust and visibility, helping potential clients learn more about your expertise and book your services. Is Wix good for coaches? It is good for coaches because it offers professional website templates designed for coaching businesses.  Its integrated Wix Bookings tool is essential, allowing clients to schedule sessions and pay for packages directly on your site 24/7. It also include other useful features such as built-in forms and SEO tools.

  • How to host a website in 5 steps

    Get  free website hosting  from Wix today → To host a website, you need a web hosting service that stores your site’s files and makes them accessible online. You can either use a website builder with free web hosting included or choose a separate hosting provider and connect your site manually. The right hosting depends on factors like expected traffic, storage needs, setup complexity and security. These choices affect your site’s speed, reliability and ability to grow. Even the best-designed free website won’t work without reliable hosting. In this guide, we’ll explain how to host a website and help you decide the right fit for your goals. Learn more: How to start a website Wix hosting keeps your website running smoothly and securely from day one. With reliable performance, strong security and built-in tools for SEO, analytics and marketing, your site is ready to grow without limits. Plus 24/7 support means help is always just a click away. TL;DR: how to host a website To host a website, you need a web hosting service that stores your site’s files on a server and makes them accessible online. Start by choosing a hosting type (like shared, cloud or managed hosting), then pick a reliable provider based on your traffic, security and budget needs. Register a domain name , build your website using a website builder or custom setup and launch. For the easiest option, use a website builder like Wix, where hosting, security and maintenance are included. What to do Why it matters Select a type of web hosting Determines your site’s performance, scalability and level of control Consider your website hosting needs Helps you choose the right resources for traffic, storage and security Choose a web hosting provider Ensures reliable uptime, support and long-term flexibility Register a domain name Gives your website a professional, easy-to-find web address Create your website Brings your site to life with content, design and functionality Learn more: Does Wix host websites? What is web hosting? Web hosting is what makes your website live and accessible online by storing its files on a server and delivering them to visitors when they enter your domain name. Most hosting providers handle server maintenance, updates and security for you, keeping your site running smoothly without technical setup. While self-hosting offers more control, it requires advanced knowledge and hands-on management. Choosing a reliable hosting provider is essential, as it directly affects your site’s speed, security and overall user experience. Learn more: What is web hosting? How to host a website in 5 steps Select a type of web hosting Consider your website hosting needs Choose a web hosting provider Register a domain name Create your website 01. Select a type of web hosting There are six main types of web hosting and based on the type of website you plan to create, you need to decide which is best for you. Shared hosting allows website owners to share a server with others to minimize operational costs. You can think of shared hosting as an apartment building where all tenants share a single structure–each user can easily manage their site through their own separate account, but cannot access advanced controls. The main benefit of shared hosting is the low cost but multiple users can create issues with performance and site reliability especially for high traffic sites. Dedicated hosting provides a single user an entire server. In real estate terms, dedicated hosting is like a house where the owner controls every aspect of the space. Large companies often choose this web hosting type because it allows for maximum customization, flexibility, and security. It is also the most complex and expensive type of web hosting. VPS (virtual private server) hosting divides a server into independently functioning virtual compartments. Each website is stored in one of these compartments, providing owners with a middle-ground between shared and dedicated hosting in terms of pricing and management capabilities. If shared hosting is an apartment building, VPS hosting is a townhouse with spaces divided into separate, functional units. Colocation provides a business its own dedicated server to support its website and stores it in a data center among other businesses’ servers. Large enterprises primarily use this hosting type. This allows them more control over the management and security of their hosting. Cloud hosting provides your website its own dedicated resources on a network of multiple servers, rather than on a single one. This fast-growing type of hosting makes it possible to access all your website data from anywhere. Cloud hosting offers website owners improved performance and security at an accessible price point. With approximately 200+ million active websites  online, cloud hosting has become increasingly advantageous for its scalability, security, speed and accessibility. Multi-cloud hosting simultaneously hosts websites on multiple networks. If a network goes down, it will automatically redirect all of the websites it hosts to another hosting network. This greatly reduces the chance of a website being down due to network issues because a backup host is always in place. Home servers , hosting a website from your own home server can be an ideal option for people who need more control over how their websites are managed. Using a home server allows you to customize how your site is hosted, what software and hardware it uses, how secure the hosting environment is, and how reliable the uptime is. This can be a complicated option if you're not sure exactly how it works, or how to handle troubleshooting. Managed hosting is a service where the hosting provider handles all the technical aspects of your server, including updates, backups, monitoring and security. It’s like having a property manager for your website, so you can focus on your business instead of server maintenance. This option is great for those who want the benefits of dedicated or VPS hosting without needing technical expertise. While it’s typically more expensive, the convenience and reliability make it a smart choice for growing websites that need consistent performance and support. Tip: Wix uses two of the biggest networks on the planet, Google Cloud Hosting and Amazon Web Services (AWS) , to protect user sites via multi-cloud hosting. In case these networks ever go down, Wix also uses its own disaster servers to ensure that all sites continue functioning even if network interruptions occur. For a more in-depth look at cloud hosting vs. shared hosting , check out our guide. 02. Consider your website hosting needs If you already worked out how to make a website, your website needs and function is a huge determining factor when it comes to choose the type of hosting you need, and your hosting provider. Consider how much traffic your site will receive in a given time period, will there be times when you might expect sudden increases in traffic. This is of specific concern for eCommerce hosting websites who handle large amounts of seasonal and holiday traffic. You will also need to take into account your need for reliability. Not just during times of traffic surges, but if servers go down - does your hosting option and provider, step in with backup options? Will you accept payments on your site, and if you will - how will you ensure your hosting choice protects your customers sensitive details. There's also the issue of your budget. It use to be that the safest hosting options, cloud hosting for example, were expensive and inaccessible. This is no longer the case and everyone can have access to reliable and safe hosting, often for free. When hosting a website, it is also important to consider how your web host will handle issues such as backup and recovery of data, user authentication and authorization, website performance optimization and how user data such as passwords is stored and secured. Uptime is the amount of time a web hosting service is available to users over a given period, or how long the websites stored on a server or network are up and running. Bandwidth is the amount of data your website can transfer to visitors over time. You can calculate your website’s bandwidth needs based on your expected traffic volume and your average page size. Security is how hard it is to harm your site. Websites can be attached through their servers, some of the more popular include DOS and phishing attacks. These can lead your site vulnerable to data breaches and theft which can put your business, and your online customers at risk. Without diving into technical details, here are a few specs you should take into account before you decide on a web hosting provider: Software: Apache, Nginx, IIS Hardware: CPU, RAM, storage capacity Cybersecurity: firewall protection, encryption Server configuration: database settings, software version Uptime reliability Customer care availability Since web host service providers provide quite similar technical specifications, you can use these additional features as a tie-breaker: Free website. Take advantage of a web host provider that also provides a complete website building platform. Custom email addresses. Align your branding strategy with a custom email address featuring your business name. Online scheduling software . Allow your clients to book appointments or services with you and manage your own calendar, all in one place. Advanced SEO features . Use professional SEO tips and protocol to boost your website’s Google ranking. Customer support. Whether through an online help center, phone calls, or social media responses, reach your hosting service quickly in case of emergency. SSL certificate and HTTPS . Both are essential security measures taken by your hosting provider to ensure the security of your site. HTTPs allows your site to communicate securely with your server and also shows your site visitors they can trust your site with their personal and payment details. 03. Choose a web hosting provider Your web hosting provider allows you to store all of your website data and deliver it to your visitors. So how do you choose the best web hosting provider ? Once you’ve identified your website needs, look for a host that meets them. For example, if you own an eCommerce photography website, you’ll need a host that guarantees enough storage to upload all your image files. Tip: Wix automatically provides users with 500MB of free cloud storage, but you can always upgrade to a premium plan and purchase as much as 50GB as your online storage needs grow. Security is obviously another paramount feature for eCommerce sites, as they need to protect private customer data. Cyber attacks are on the rise , and you want to choose an experienced hosting provider that adheres to international standards with a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity basics , like Wix. Lastly, choose a provider that offers flexible plans that you can upgrade or cancel at any time. This gives you the freedom to make adjustments as you see fit. 04. Register a domain name A custom domain name conveys professionalism as well as makes your site more distinctive, easy-to-find and search engine optimized. Most website hosting platforms offer domain registrars so you can easily create your domain name and purchase a host in the same place. Tip: With Wix, users get a free domain for the first year, meaning you won’t need to worry about domain name costs up front. To select a URL, consider simple keywords or phrases that best describe your site. If creating a business website, simply use your business name as your domain. If someone has already claimed that domain name, add your business city or state to differentiate it. Take a look at this step-by-step guide on how to choose a domain name that represents professionalism, searchability and brand value. Learn more about what a domain name is. 05. Create your website Once you've chosen your web hosting provider and purchased a domain name, it's time to create your website. Start by choosing a website builder, like Wix that fits your technical skills and website requirements. For an easy and user-friendly experience, Wix offers intuitive design options and hundreds of website templates. Design your site by selecting a template that reflects your brand’s style and has mobile compatibility for wider reach. Then create engaging content to clearly convey your message and captivate your audience. Add essential features like contact forms, galleries or eCommerce capabilities based on your goals. Test your website thoroughly before launching to ensure all features work smoothly and provide a seamless user experience from the start. Why do you need web hosting? You need web hosting because it's the space on a server where your website's files are stored. When someone visits your website, their computer sends a request to the server where your website is hosted. The server then sends the website's files back to the computer, and the website is displayed. Without web hosting, your website would not be accessible on the internet. Here are some of the benefits of using web hosting: Reliability :  Web hosting providers typically have high-uptime servers, which means that your website will be up and running most of the time. Security:  Web hosts usually offer security measures to protect your website from hackers and other threats. Performance:  Web hosting providers often optimize their servers for website performance, which means that your website will load quickly for visitors. Support:  Web hosts typically offer support to help you with any problems you have with your website or web hosting account. What you need to host a website To host your website, you'll need a few essential things: Domain name This is your website's address on the internet. Choose something memorable, relevant to your website's purpose and ideally, easy to spell and type. "The main thing to consider when choosing a domain is finding one that aligns with your brand and is easy for your customers to remember. It's important to have a domain that reflects your business and makes it easy for people to find you online." Einat Shafir, Product Manager Domains at Wix.com Web hosting A web hosting service provides the storage space and computing power to run your website and make it accessible to everyone on the internet. Choose a reliable host with good uptime and customer support. Website content Craft engaging web content  that resonates with your target audience and keeps them coming back for more. It could be informative blog posts, eye-catching product pages or a portfolio of your stunning artwork.  Website design Choose a website design  that aligns with your brand and content, prioritizing user-friendliness and intuitive navigation.  Tips for choosing a web host In addition to technical factors like uptime, speed, security and support, there are other considerations when choosing a web host. Here are a few tips to help you: Consider your website needs What kind of website do you have? How much traffic do you expect? What features do you need? For example, if you have a simple blog, you may not need a lot of storage space or bandwidth. But if you have a large eCommerce site, you'll need a web host that can handle a lot of traffic and transactions. Compare prices Web hosting prices vary depending on the features and resources that you need. Be sure to compare prices from different providers before you choose a plan. With a Wix website hosting is always included for free. Read customer reviews Read reviews of different web hosting providers to see what other customers have to say about their service. This can help you identify potential problems with different providers. From these reviews, choose a web host that has a good reputation for customer service and support. This is important because you may need help from your web host from time to time. Evaluate customer support When hosting a website, having reliable customer support can make a substantial difference in your overall experience. Check if the hosting provider offers 24/7 support through various channels like live chat, email or phone. Quick and effective help is essential, especially during technical difficulties that could affect your website's performance or accessibility. Check for scalability options As your website grows, your hosting needs may change. Opt for a provider that offers scalable solutions, allowing you to upgrade your hosting plan seamlessly as your site’s traffic and storage demands increase. This flexibility ensures your website can handle growth without experiencing downtime or performance issues. Or choose from the start web hosting, like with Wix that can handle your website and its traffic, as it scales. Focus on security measures Security is an essential aspect of web hosting. Protect your site and its visitors by choosing a provider that offers robust security features, such as SSL certificates, firewalls and malware scanning. Regular updates and security patches are vital to guard against vulnerabilities. By prioritizing security, you can safeguard sensitive information and maintain the trust of your users. Prioritize reliability A reliable hosting provider is essential to keep your website online when it matters most. Consider uptime guarantees and the provider’s track record for maintaining consistent service. With reliability in place, your visitors can always access your site when they need it. Look for ease of use Managing your website hosting shouldn’t feel like rocket science. Look for a platform that offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive tools, allowing you to make changes easily. Wix makes this process simple with its all-in-one dashboard and streamlined hosting setup, so you can focus on your website rather than the technical details. How to host a website FAQ Can I host a website myself? Yes, but it’s not recommended for beginners. Self-hosting requires technical knowledge, including setting up a server, installing software and managing a domain and hosting plan. If you’re inexperienced, using a web hosting service like Wix is a simpler, safer option. How do I transfer a domain name? To transfer a domain name, you will need to contact the current registrar of the domain name and request a transfer. The registrar will then send you a transfer authorization code (TAC). You will need to provide this TAC to the new registrar when you sign up for a hosting plan. The transfer process can take up to 5 days to complete. Once the transfer is complete, your domain name will be pointed to your new hosting provider. What's the easiest way to host a website? The easiest way to host a website is to choose a website builder, like Wix, where hosting is included when you commit to a premium package. Can I host a website for free? With a website builder like Wix you can host a website for free as part of one of its free or paid plans. Do I need managed or unmanaged hosting? The choice depends on your technical skills, time, budget and how much control you want over your website. Managed hosting is ideal for most users, as it handles updates, backups, security and performance for you. Wix offers managed hosting that covers all these needs, making it easier to focus on your website rather than server maintenance. Unmanaged hosting is only recommended if you have the experience and time to manage your own server. How does hosting affect website speed? Website speed is heavily influenced by your hosting setup, including server response time, hardware quality, location and bandwidth. Features like caching, CDNs, server-side optimizations and SSD storage can further improve performance. Shared hosting may slow your site during peak traffic while managed performance-optimized hosting ensures faster more reliable load times. Choosing secure high-quality hosting is key to keeping your website responsive and efficient.

  • The 7 best website builders for photographers

    Looking for the best way to build your website? Get started with Wix  → When starting a photography business, capturing the perfect shot is just the beginning. Showing your artistry to the world in the best light requires a digital platform that complements your work. Knowing how to make a website and find the best platform to improve your brand, sell your designs and just share your art with others is very important if you want to stand out. But with the vast array of website builders available today, how do you choose the one that best suits your needs? Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this guide explores the top website builders for photographers to help you find the perfect platform for starting your business . When choosing a website builder, you want one that’s flexible, powerful and easy-to-use. Wix is the go-to platform for millions of users looking to create a stunning website effortlessly. See what makes Wix stand out from the crowd and why it’s the right fit for you. TL;DR: Best website builders for photographers As a photographer, your website isn’t just a portfolio—it’s your storefront, pitch deck and personal brand all in one. Here we break down the best website builders for photographers, each offering the right mix of design flexibility, visual impact and business tools to help you show your work and grow your client base. You’ll find a side-by-side look at each platform’s strengths, plus tips to help you choose the one that matches your goals, style and workflow. Criteria we considered Why it matters Image presentation tools Supports high-res photo galleries and visual storytelling Customization and design options Gives you full creative control over the look and feel of your portfolio Ease of use Helps you get online quickly, even with no coding or design experience Client tools Includes features like bookings, contact forms and file delivery SEO and marketing capabilities Helps your work get discovered and brings in new business 7 of the best website builders for photographers Wix Webflow Zenfolio Pixpa Webnode Carbonmade Adobe Portfolio 01. Wix If you want to build a photography website that actually holds your audience’s attention, it needs to serve as a one-stop shop for your entire online presence. Whereas there are plenty of website builders that can provide the templates you need to build an attractive website, few have as rich of an array of website features and website apps as Wix does. With its intuitive drag-and-drop editor and hundreds of highly customizable templates, learning how to use Wix is a breeze. Photographers will find the content manager exceptionally handy, as it allows you to upload batches of photos that automatically populate in the gallery layout of your choice. Want to change the order of your photos? You can do that with ease, highlighting Wix's commitment to customizability. If all that weren’t enough, Wix features and AI tools add another layer of simplicity to the design process. If the available photography website templates don’t quite capture your vision, Wix offers one of the best AI website builder on the market. For photographers who think in images rather than words, the AI text creator will help you craft compelling copy to accompany your visuals. Learn more about how Wix is good for photographers. Wix goes beyond being just a website builder—it's a complete toolkit for running your photography business. Thanks to the built-in scheduling software , potential clients can easily schedule appointments with you directly through your website. For those eyeing additional revenue streams, Wix's print-on-demand feature lets you sell directly from your online store without ever needing to handle the physical products yourself. And when it comes to drawing traffic to your site, Wix has you covered with SEO features , an email marketing manager, an ad manager, a blog maker and more to enhance your online presence. Why we picked it: Advanced eCommerce functionality Built-in scheduling software Print-on-demand opportunities AI website generation capabilities Ideal for: Full-service studios. Be inspired by these photography website examples , all built on Wix. Pricing:  $0-$159/month. Premium plans available. Free plan ($0): Limited features and ads. Light ($17/month):  Basic plan for simple sites. Core ($29/month): Basic eCommerce features and marketing suite. Business $39/month): Geared towards growing your brand.  Business Elite ($159/month): Unlocks unlimited storage & scaling capabilities. Enterprise: Custom plan for large corporations.  Launch your photography portfolio website  with Wix today. Learn more: Best freelance website builders , best website builders for designers 02. Webflow Webflow earns itself a place on this list of the best website builders for photographers by offering a robust platform that marries visual design freedom with the precision of coding. It's a step up from the usual drag-and-drop interfaces, catering to photographers who possess a bit of tech savvy and want to carve out a unique space online. Webflow distinguishes itself by generating clean, semantic code as you design visually. This is particularly helpful because it bridges the gap between design and development. For photographers who value both aesthetics and functionality, Webflow's platform means that as you drag, drop and design your site, it automatically translates your design choices into professional, standards-compliant HTML and CSS code. This auto-coding capability ensures that the technical side of your site is sound, which helps to make a website accessible , SEO-friendly and fast. Essentially, it's like having a coder translating your creative vision into web language in real time, ensuring that your website not only looks good but is built solidly from the ground up. This feature is useful for those who may not be experts in coding but still want a website that ranks well on search engines and delivers a quality user experience. While Webflow's learning curve is steeper compared to other website builders and requires at least a basic understanding of web design and coding, the investment in learning can pay off in terms of the quality and uniqueness of the website created. Why we picked it: Full design control Clean, semantic code generator Built-in interaction and animation tools Ideal for: Tech-savvy photographers. Pricing: Free plans available; paid plans start at $14 per month. 03. Zenfolio Zenfolio is a platform designed primarily for photographers to showcase, share and sell their work online. This would not only allow you to display your work but also to sell your work in the form of prints and photo books. The platform streamlines the sales process with integrated payments and customizable price lists, enabling photographers to manage their art and business in one easy-to-use space. Zenfolio's photo-proofing tools offer an added layer of professionalism to the experience. Photographers can share private galleries with clients, facilitating the feedback and selection processes. This collaboration tool ensures efficient workflows and boosts client relationships. Zenfolio's automated workflow feature is like having a digital assistant by your side that helps you simplify your routine and keep your audience engaged. It automatically nudges customers to revisit abandoned carts, reminds them of upcoming bookings and dispatches shipping confirmations. And when it comes to engaging potential buyers, personalized email campaigns can be crafted and dispatched with ease, drawing them back to your online gallery. But it's not just about reminders and emails. Zenfolio assists with order fulfillment, ensuring that products are delivered without a hitch and even offers smart pricing recommendations, helping you set competitive rates for your work. The PhotoRefine Photo Culling tool stands out in the sea of website builder features, offering a unique time-saving solution. You take the reins by setting the criteria and parameters, which allows the tool to sort through your images, pinpoint duplicates and adjust AI settings to your preference. PhotoRefine then groups like photos and rates them according to your specifications, assesses image quality and employs facial recognition to identify individuals, streamlining the process of sorting and grouping shots by subject. Why we picked it: Automated workflow features Photo-proofing tools Photo-culling tools Ideal for: Time-strapped photographers. Pricing: Plans start at $7 per month. 04. Pixpa Pixpa stands out in the sea of website builders for its focus on helping creatives like photographers sell their work online. At its core, Pixpa acknowledges that today’s photographers are not just artists but also entrepreneurs, necessitating a platform that caters to both facets of their profession. Whether it's selling prints, licensing images or offering photography courses or workshops, Pixpa’s integrated eCommerce tools simplify the commercial side of photography. Like other platforms, this one supports customizable price lists, inventory management, discount codes and more, all while ensuring a secure and seamless payment gateway integration. In addition, Pixpa does not charge any setup fees, listing fees or transaction fees on the products or orders of your Pixpa Store. Pixpa may not boast the same level of flexibility or as many templates as Wix, yet it stands out with specialized features for photographers. Its eCommerce-enabled galleries allow your portfolio to serve a dual purpose, letting admirers purchase their favorite images directly. Plus, the fully responsive design ensures your site and images display beautifully across all devices. Client interaction is pivotal in the photography business. Pixpa's client galleries offer a collaborative space where photographers can share, proof and sell their images. Clients can review, select or purchase images directly from these galleries, streamlining the workflow and enhancing the overall client experience. Adding to the user experience, you can use the Mobile Gallery App to offer clients a personalized and engaging way to interact with their photos through a dedicated platform. In addition to championing visual display, Pixpa realizes the growing significance of eCommerce in the world of photography. Whether it's selling prints, licensing images or offering online courses or workshops, Pixpa’s integrated eCommerce tools simplify the commercial side of photography. With all its benefits, you won’t find many third-party integrations to use with Pixpa. Why we picked it: Ecommerce-enabled galleries Client interaction facilitation Simplified designer Ideal for: Entrepreneurial photographers. Pricing: Plans start at $5.40 per month. Related reading: Wix vs. Shopify 05. Webnode Webnode's commitment to simplifying the process of setting up a digital footprint makes it a good choice for photographers looking for a hassle-free website-building experience. For photographers, this translates to an array of elegantly designed templates that cater to the needs of visual portfolios. These templates are not only aesthetically pleasing but also adaptive, ensuring that photographs are rendered beautifully across all device types and on all screens. Although the drag-and-drop editor is more rigid compared to other website builders, this limitation becomes an asset for novices, making it almost effortless to assemble a sleek, professional website without getting bogged down by complexity. Like others, Webnode offers multilingual support, an essential feature for photographers who aim to connect with an international audience. This aspect of the platform underscores Webnode's dedication to broadening the reach of its users, ensuring that language is no barrier to the appreciation of visual art. Why we picked it: User-friendly interface Responsive design templates Multilingual support Ideal for: Web-design novices. Pricing: Plans start at $4.50 per month. 06. Carbonmade Carbonmade has made a mark in the world of online portfolios, distinguishing itself through its interesting design approach and focus on personal branding. Created out of a desire to provide creatives with a unique space to showcase their work, Carbonmade emphasizes both individuality and simplicity in its platform. What sets Carbonmade apart is its dynamic visual looks. Carbonmade has moved away from using traditional templates, embracing a more flexible approach where users can customize almost every aspect of their portfolios, so everyone starts from a blank canvas. Their new web builder has unlimited layout options, allowing you to change colors, fonts, styling and more without the need for coding. In the competitive world of photography, personal branding is of high importance, and this is where Carbonmade shines brightly. The platform offers integrated branding tools, allowing photographers to craft a distinct online persona. From custom domains to uniquely styled about pages and CV integrations, Carbonmade makes a photographer's portfolio an extension of their brand, resonating with their style and message. Another advantage is Carbonmade's user-friendly interface. The platform is intuitive, ensuring that even those new to the world of digital portfolios can easily navigate its features. The drag-and-drop system, coupled with real-time previews, lets photographers experiment with layouts, designs and branding elements until they find the perfect fit. Carbonmade is not just another portfolio builder: it's a branding platform for photographers. It understands that in the digital age, a photographer's work and their brand are one. By offering tools that prioritize personal branding among a sea of generic portfolios, Carbonmade not only allows you to showcase your work but also to leave an indelible imprint on your audience. Why we picked it: Integrated blogging Video support Unique editor Ideal for: Photographers who need branding help. Pricing: Plans start at $9.99 per month. 07. Adobe Portfolio Adobe Portfolio is included in Creative Cloud subscriptions so, if you’re already using Photoshop or Lightroom, it’s worth giving it a go before you explore any of the other website builders we’ve discussed. As part of the well-known Adobe family, this photography website builder draws on decades of design and software excellence. It offers an array of clean, responsive templates, meticulously crafted to highlight your photographs. Plus, you get access to the thousands of Adobe fonts, which ensures that the presentation of your work is as professional as the art itself. Integration is another of Adobe Portfolio's strong suits. For example you will find that the Adobe-owned Behance is available to integrate and showcase your creative work. Photographers can effortlessly pull images from Lightroom or Photoshop directly into their portfolios. This seamless connection between applications simplifies the workflow, reducing the hassle of exporting, uploading or constantly updating the portfolio as everything is a part of a larger ecosystem. Beyond mere portfolio creation, Adobe Portfolio allows you to connect a personalized domain and supports Google Analytics integrations. That said, its lack of eCommerce functionality will be a drawback for photographers who hope to sell their work directly through their site. Why we picked it: Free for Adobe Creative Cloud users Seamless integration with Adobe toolkit Customizable themes Ideal for: Adobe Creative Cloud users. Pricing: Included with Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. Plans start at $9.99 per month. Editor’s note: all prices are current as of December 21st, 2025. Looking for affordable options to build your website? Check out this guide to the best and cheapest website builders  for expert recommendations and cost-saving tips. Best website builders for photographers review Editor’s note: all prices are current as of December 21st, 2025. How to find the best photography website builder for you When it's time to select a website builder, the choice becomes a critical decision that directly impacts your online presence, brand, eCommerce store and professional image. Here's what to look for when choosing a website builder tailored for photography: 01. Image quality and gallery options As a photographer, you understand that image quality is paramount. It's essential to pick a website builder that maintains your images' high resolution and offers a range of gallery styles to display your work at its best. Seek out platforms that deliver a variety of presentation options, such as slideshows, lightbox functionality and masonry grids, while ensuring fast load times and consistent display across different devices. It's critical to assess the load times since some builders may struggle with the weight of high-resolution images, leading to slower speeds that can affect user experience. 02. Ease of use and management For photographers who'd rather be capturing moments than clicking through menus, an intuitive website builder is crucial. Look for one with drag-and-drop capabilities, easy uploading and no-fuss organization that streamline your administrative tasks. The right builder should save you time, freeing you up to focus on your photography, not on managing a website. 03. Customization Your photography is as unique as your fingerprint, and your website should echo that singularity. Seek out a website builder that serves up a generous array of customization options, empowering you to adjust design elements like fonts, colors and layouts to mirror your brand and artistic voice. Think of your website as an extension of your digital identity—a place where a compelling user experience harmonizes with your unique artistic style. Look for a website builder that offers a variety of professionally designed portfolio templates tailored specifically for photographers as well as per industry (for example, if you wish to showcase your photos in a  fashion portfolio  to attract potential clients). 04. Mobile optimization Photographers need a website builder that ensures their portfolio is as stunning on a phone as it is on a desktop, just like Wix does. A mobile-responsive design is non-negotiable—it guarantees your work is showcased beautifully and is easily accessible to the swathes of users scrolling on their mobile devices. You certainly don’t want to overlook the potential of the constantly connected mobile audience. 05. SEO tools for visual content For photography websites, where visuals take center stage, SEO demands a focus on image-related features. It’s essential to use SEO tools that enhance image visibility. This means incorporating alt text that guides search engines through the content behind your images, customizing file names for clarity and applying accurate tagging to bolster discoverability and improve your rankings in search results. You should also make sure your platform supports general optimization features that help your website rank better overall in search engine results. 06. Affordability and future growth When it comes to choosing a photography website builder, you need to know how much a website costs against the provided features. Free versions of some builders might not meet the professional standards required for a burgeoning photography business. It’s crucial to select a platform that not only fits your current budget but also scales with your portfolio and audience growth. Evaluate the pricing structure and plans  offered by the website builder, considering factors such as subscription costs, transaction fees (if applicable), storage limits and features included in each plan. Choose a plan that fits your budget and offers the features you need to showcase your photography effectively. 07. Integrated selling and client services Photographers who market their art or provide bespoke services need a website builder with robust eCommerce features and dedicated client proofing spaces. The ideal builder should seamlessly incorporate the ability to sell prints, offer digital downloads, connect with third-party applications and facilitate smooth client interactions, making the process of showcasing and selling work as efficient as possible. Prioritize tools like client galleries, proofing capabilities and easy sharing options to simplify collaboration with clients while maintaining a professional workflow. 08. Offers important features Make sure the website builder you choose as a photographer offers these crucial features: Image protection: Protect your images from unauthorized downloading or usage using watermarks, image encryption or password-protected galleries, to safeguard your work and intellectual property rights. eCommerce functionality: If you plan to sell prints or digital downloads of your photos, consider a website builder that offers eCommerce functionality,  including options for setting up online galleries, accepting payments securely and managing orders and fulfillment. Customer support: Reliable customer support  is crucial. Opt for a website builder that provides various support channels like email, live chat or phone support, to assist you with any technical issues or questions you may encounter while building and managing your photography website. Support system: Make sure it's backed by a strong support system, complete with detailed help guides and a vibrant user community. This kind of support network can be invaluable, making the process of building and maintaining your site much smoother. Learn more: How does an AI website builder work Is Wix good for photographers? Wix is often a top choice for photographers. It offers numerous visually impressive templates specifically designed to showcase high-quality images which are perfect for photography websites and businesses. Its gallery features are robust, allowing for beautiful presentations including masonry grids or full-screen sliders. It's perfect for building a stunning online portfolio quickly and easily, which is often just the thing photographers need to start a business or showcase their work. How to optimize your photography website Know your audience Analytics tools reveal critical information about your visitors, from age to geographic location and even the devices they use to browse. This knowledge is invaluable for tailoring your content and marketing efforts to resonate with your audience more effectively. Assess content impact Through your analytics data, identify which images or blog entries capture the most interest. This feedback is crucial for future content creation, steering you towards what your audience prefers. Improve engagement Focus on metrics like page views and bounce rates, which highlight how visitors interact with your site. If engagement is low, it might be a cue to revamp your site's design, improve content placement or enhance load times. Refine your marketing strategies Analytics tools can show which marketing strategies channels are the most effective in driving traffic and conversions. This insight allows for smarter budget allocation and more targeted marketing approaches. Set and track goals Define what success looks like—be it sales, sign-ups or inquiries—and use analytics to monitor these goals. This ongoing review process helps pinpoint successful tactics and areas needing improvement. Best website builders for photographers FAQ Which photography website builders are best for beginners with no coding experience? Website builders like Wix are user-friendly options for those with no coding experience. They offer intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces that make the process straightforward. Can I switch to a different website builder later on? Yes, you can switch, but migrating content might require some effort, especially if the new platform has a different structure. It's advisable to choose a builder that aligns with long-term goals to minimize migration hassles. Wix, for example, is versatile enough to accommodate photography hobbyists and enterprise-level studios alike. Are free website builder plans sufficient for my photographer business needs? While free plans can be a great starting point, they often come with limitations, such as branded advertisements or limited storage. For a more professional look and added features, it's worth considering a paid plan. How secure are photography website builders? Reputable builders prioritize website security and often include features like SSL certificates, secure payment gateways and regular system updates to protect against vulnerabilities. Can I use my domain name with any photography website builder? Most photography website builders allow you to purchase or connect a custom domain name to give your site a professional touch. Do photographers need a website? Yes, a website is essential for photographers as it serves as a central hub to showcase your portfolio, connect with clients and build credibility. Unlike social media, a website lets you present your work exactly how you want, with high-quality galleries, personalized branding and professional details about your services. What should a photography website include? A photography website should feature a portfolio gallery to showcase your work, an about page to share your story and style and clear contact information to make it easy for clients to reach you. Including client testimonials adds credibility, while a mobile-friendly design ensures your site looks great on any device. Optional elements like a blog or updates can keep your content dynamic and engage your audience further. What is the most important rule of photography? The top rule of photography is that there are no absolute rules, only guidelines. Techniques like the rule of thirds, lighting principles and composition frameworks are meant to help, not limit you. Once you understand them, the best photos often come from knowing when to break them intentionally. Sign up for Wix to start building your photography website today.

  • .ORG vs .COM vs .NET: What do they mean and which is better?

    The perfect domain is just a click away: claim your domain →   A website address has two main parts: the domain name , which represents your brand or business, and the domain extension, also called a top-level domain (TLD). The extension appears after the dot—like .org,  .com  or .net—and signals the type, purpose or credibility of your website. While .com remains the most popular and widely recognized option, .org and .net each serve specific audiences and goals. Understanding the difference between these domain extensions helps you choose one that fits your website’s purpose, builds trust with visitors and strengthens your online presence. In this guide, we’ll compare .org vs .com vs .net, explain what each extension means, who it’s best for and how to decide which one aligns with your brand. Secure your perfect domain in just a few clicks with Wix. Get everything you need in one place—custom website, business email, reliable hosting, SSL protection and full privacy. With 24/7 support and no hidden fees, getting your site live is simple and worry-free. TL;DR: .org vs .com vs .net Your domain extension says a lot about your brand. This guide breaks down the differences between .org, .com and .net—from what each one stands for to when it makes the most sense to use them. You’ll learn how each option affects your credibility, audience perception and SEO potential, so you can choose the right extension to support your business goals and online presence. Whether you're launching a nonprofit, building a service-based business or scaling a tech brand, this guide will help you make a strategic, informed decision. Feature .com .org .net Meaning Commercial Organization Network Intended use Businesses, personal blogs, general websites Non-profits, charities, open-source projects Tech services like ISPs and hosting Popularity Most popular globally Popular with non-profits and communities Recognized but less common Trust factor High — often seen as credible and trusted High — associated with transparency and community efforts Moderate — strong fit for tech industries Availability Highly competitive (many names taken) Easier to find than .com Easier to find than .com SEO impact No technical SEO advantage, but strong branding value No direct impact, trusted for non-profits and education No direct impact, solid for tech brands Cost on Wix Starts at $9.90 Starts at $14.95 Starts at $14.95 Best for Businesses, eCommerce, personal blogs Non-profits, advocacy groups, communities Tech companies, startups, hosting services Editor's note: Pricing information is accurate as of October 28th, 2025. Learn more: What is a domain name How to get .org domain .co vs .com domain What does .com mean? The .com top-level domain is, by far, the most popular extension, and thus the one with the highest value for professional websites. While it was originally conceived to host commercial websites, nowadays its use has extended to any type of site, despite the long list of alternatives devised for other purposes. Ever since the phrase “dot-com” was used to describe the rise and subsequent fall of online start-ups in the ‘90s, this domain extension has become synonymous with the internet. As of today, 48% of global websites use a .com TLD and consumers perceive it as the de facto default extension for web addresses. This means that not only is .com much easier for your audience to remember, but also that they might actually type in the wrong URL if you’re using a different extension. The sheer reputation of the .com TLD means that its availability is quite limited and can significantly complicate the process of choosing a domain name . With this in mind, it’s important to check your domain’s feasibility in the first stages of starting a business and, ideally, take it into account when coming up with your business name . That being said, not using .com is far from the end of the world and in some cases, you might even want to actively choose a different domain extension. Found the perfect name for your business? Lock in your domain  before someone else does. What does .org mean? The .org top-level domain stands for “organization” and is primarily used for nonprofit websites such as NGOs, open source projects, charitable organizations and educational platforms. This extension was one of the original domains established in 1985, and is therefore perceived as stronger and more credible than newer alternatives. This domain extension was originally created for organizations that didn’t match the intent of any other domains available at the time: not commercial, not in networking, not a university, not government and not military. Over time, .org became exclusively for nonprofits, however, this restriction was removed in August 2019 after the domain name registry was sold to an investment firm. But while for-profit businesses are now legally allowed to purchase and use .org domains, the public opinion is still very much set on its old ways and experience. .Org signals a focus on social good. Any business using a .org domain is inherently perceived as a nonprofit organization or a fundraising website for a nonprofit, and the failure to clearly disclose the for-profit nature of your company could result in serious backlash. .org vs .com differences As you compare what .com is vs .org, you’ll notice that the distinction between the two appears to be fairly simple: one is for nonprofit uses while the other is used by commercial organizations. If you want to create a nonprofit website, use a .org domain. If your goal is to build an online business , go for .com instead. But, of course, nothing is ever black and white. As the availability of .com domains drops, businesses are opting for alternative TLDs in order to be able to use their intended domain names. With only around 10 million .org domains registered , accounting for less than 5% of the global total, the .org has risen as one of the preferred alternatives to the .com extension. From a user experience standpoint, .com holds a subtle but notable advantage: many mobile keyboards include a built-in “.com” shortcut for faster typing, while no such shortcut exists for .org. This may not be a deal-breaker, but it’s a small factor worth considering, especially for mobile-first audiences. When it comes to SEO, neither .com nor .org offers any inherent advantage. Search engines rank websites based on content quality, relevance, site performance and user experience—not domain extensions. So whether you choose .com or .org, your site’s SEO success will depend on how well it’s built and maintained. Historically, .org domains had capped pricing, making them a more affordable option for nonprofits and charities. However, those price controls were lifted in 2019 , and now domain costs can vary depending on the registry. In general, both .com and .org domains are widely available to the public and typically cost about the same at registration. Technically, any type of business or organization can use a .org domain as long as they back it with the right marketing strategy that will avoid potential misunderstandings among those who still connect this domain extension with nonprofits. However, the notion that .org domains belong to charities, NGOs and educational platforms is so ingrained in the collective mindset that you might want to keep this TLD as a last resource only. If you’re in need of a strong .com domain alternative for your business or online portfolio , you should take a look at what .net is instead. What does .net mean? The .net domain is the second most popular extension. It’s often presented as the recommended alternative to .com when you try to buy a domain name that is already in use. It’s estimated that around 4% of all global registered domains use this extension. The .net domain name extension stands for “network” and was originally meant to be used by umbrella websites acting as a portal for smaller sites. It's now particularly common in tech companies. You should use a .net extension for businesses that provides services like internet, website hosting , databases or collaboration tools. Another reason to use .net is when .com is not available. In this case, you’ll need to make sure that the business with your same domain name with a .com extension is not in the same industry, otherwise your audience might end up becoming their clients. Whatever the reason is for you to use a .net domain extension, you’ll need to ensure that potential visitors remember it and don’t end up on the wrong site. An effective way to achieve this is by integrating your site’s TLD within your branding efforts, as your audience will end up naturally connecting your business name with .net. For example, a marketing consultant firm called Upstream may refer to themselves as Upstream.net to get their audience familiar with their correct domain extension. .net vs .com differences The most obvious difference between a .net and a .com domain is their purpose, as they were created for “network” and “commercial” sites. If your goal is to provide internet-based services or networking platforms, such as creating a forum for your community , you should buy a .net domain. On the other hand, if your goal is to make money online, whether it's by starting a blog or an eCommerce website , you’ll want to purchase a .com domain name. However, with nearly half of all domain names registered with a .com extension, .net has risen as the go-to alternative for unavailable web addresses. Alternatively you can try and claim an expired .com domain that's been auctioned off. With time, the semantic differences have significantly diluted and the original purposes of these TLDs are no longer the main difference between the two. When it comes to comparing .net vs .com in 2022, the most significant distinction is the effect each of them has on mobile websites. Learn more about domain expiration and how to purchase an expired domain in this guide. .org vs .com vs .net differences When choosing between .org, .com and .net for your domain, it’s important to consider the purpose and audience of your site: .com  (short for "commercial") is the most widely recognized and trusted TLD, often associated with commercial businesses, eCommerce and general websites. Its familiarity can boost credibility and reach, but the popularity means many names may already be taken. .org  (short for "organization") is traditionally used by non-profits, charities and organizations focused on education or advocacy. It conveys trustworthiness and purpose, making it ideal for mission-driven websites, though it’s less common for businesses. .net  (short for "network") was originally intended for network-related businesses, like internet providers or tech companies, but it’s now used more broadly. While less recognized than .com, it can be a strong alternative if .com isn’t available. Ultimately, .com is often the first choice due to recognition, but .org and .net are valuable for specific industries or when aligning with your site’s mission. Expert tip from Einat Shafir, product manager at Wix: ".com is the most popular and widely recognized domain extension, making it the best choice for businesses. However, other extensions like .net, .org and country-specific ones can also be effective, depending on your business." Domain choice and SEO While choosing a .net or .com extension doesn't impact your site's SEO capabilities or ability to show up in search engine results, mobile browsers’ UI design can negatively affect sites with a .net domain. Most smartphone keyboards have a button dedicated to domain extensions, but as you’ve probably noticed its default option is always .com. As a result, searching for .net domains is more time-consuming and less user-friendly. With mobile accounting for more than half of all online traffic , this small detail can have a significant impact on the success of your site. In order to maximize your online presence and web traffic , it’s recommended to purchase both .net and .com extensions. With a domain name cost ranging between $8-$20 per year, the purchase of a second TLD will most likely result in a high return on investment as it will allow you to ensure visitors don’t accidentally reach a competitor’s site. All you need to do is redirect the additional extension to your main domain name. Ultimately, the decision of which domain to choose shouldn’t be heavily influenced by what is perceived to be best for SEO. Google’s John Mueller has confirmed over and over again that domain choice has no real impact on a site’s SEO. In January 2022 , Mueller said, “The newer top-level domains (TLDs) are equivalent to other generic top-level domains like .com when it comes to SEO. Pick something you like, there are lots of options out there now.” Learn more: How much does a domain name cost? So while there are many different reasons as to why you might opt for a specific type of domain, its impact on your SEO shouldn’t be a deciding factor. Choosing your domain The three letters at the end of your web address are as important as everything that comes before them. Not only will they affect your chances of being found online, but also have a significant impact on your audience’s perception of your brand. Once you've chosen your website builder and covered the essentials of how to create a website , it's important to prioritize your domain name and extension. Also known as top-level domains (TLDs), domain extensions are used to categorize websites by type, location or business model. They're also used to communicate with the Domain Name System  to deliver web content to web page s through their IP address  and a web server . Out of the thousands of domain extensions available on the web, the most common ones are .org, .com and .net. With this in mind, the process of choosing between them should take place as soon as you start building your brand. Doing so will allow you to put together a cohesive online presence and strengthen your website's infrastructure from the beginning. Now that you know what each of these main top-level domains mean and what they’re commonly used for, you’ll be able to weigh the pros and cons of each option and make an educated decision that allows you to make the most of your online address. Check out this guide for more information on subdomains , as well as this list of best domain registrars . Expert tip from Keren Friedlander, product manager at Wix: "If your desired domain is already taken, consider using alternative extensions. These can still effectively represent your business. Another strategy is to add relevant keywords to your domain name like industry or location. This way, you can create a memorable and relevant domain for your business." The future of domain extensions .org, .com and .net are still among the most popular types of domains used today. The top 5 domain extensions in 2024 were: 01. .com 02. .org 03. .de 04. .ru 05. .br Other popular domain extensions include: .net , .uk, .jp, .it , and .fr. These trends are not likely to change soon. However, as competition for domain names grows, businesses are exploring less common extensions. Country-specific domains like .ru, .uk, and .de have gained significant traction, ranking among the top ten global extensions in 2024. While .org, .com, and .net are still the most popular, this could change in the future. New domain extensions are also on the rise. In 2024 , .xyz was the most popular new top-level domain with 3.8 million registrations, followed by .online and .top, known for their flexibility and global appeal. Domain variety is expected to grow further, driven by increasing website creation and the upcoming ICANN second new gTLD program in 2026 . This initiative will introduce even more options, including non-Latin script TLDs, making the internet more inclusive. Technological trends are also reshaping the domain landscape. The .ai extension , originally for Anguilla, has surged in popularity due to the rise of artificial intelligence. Recognized by Google  as a generic top-level domain, .ai now sees over 20,000 new registrations  monthly, a trend likely to accelerate. The growth of websites has driven demand for diverse domains. Many brands use industry-specific extensions like .shop, .design, and .health to create memorable, purpose-driven identities. Startups and niche businesses stand out with extensions that highlight their expertise. Creators and influencers are also embracing extensions like .me, .bio, and .fans to build personal, approachable brands that connect with their audiences. Other domain extension options include: . studio .wiki .finance .nl (Netherlands) .yoga .center .space .top .fun .ch (Switzerland) .me .co .live .biz . blog What's going on with .org now? Over time, the management of .org has changed significantly. Initially managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), it moved to the Public Interest Registry (PIR) in 2003. The nonprofit PIR ensures .org stays a reliable space for public interest projects. However, in 2019, a proposed sale of PIR to a private equity firm sparked concern among stakeholders, worried about the potential commercialization of a space traditionally reserved for the public good. This controversy highlighted the need for vigilance in preserving the .org domain's core values. Key tips for choosing the right domain extension According to Michael Yerardi, Property Specialist, Turning Point Home Buyers: "Consider purchasing different variations of your chosen domain name (such as .com, .net, .org) to protect your brand and prevent others from using similar names for their own websites." Here are some tips to help you decide which domain extension to choose: Build trust:  A ".com" domain is often seen as the most professional and reliable option. It’s the default choice for many and helps establish credibility with your audience. Match your purpose:  Choose an extension that fits your organization. For example, businesses often go with ".com" for its association with commercial activity while non-profits lean toward ".org" for its connection to community-driven initiatives. Explore alternatives:  If your ideal ".com" domain isn’t available, don’t worry—there are plenty of great options. Extensions like ".net" or ".org" can work well depending on your goals, while newer options like " .info " or " .co " offer creative ways to stand out. Think locally:  If your business operates in a specific country, consider using a country code domain like ".uk" or " .ca " to better connect with local audiences. Keep it simple:  Avoid overly long or complicated extensions. Short, memorable domains are easier for users to remember and type, enhancing your site’s accessibility. Plan for the future: If you’re thinking about growing your business or taking it in a more commercial direction down the road, choosing a .com could be a smarter long-term choice. Why trust Wix’s experts? This article was created by Wix’s in-house domain experts, with years of experience helping people choose, register and secure the perfect domains for their businesses and online projects. The guidance, tips and best practices shared here come directly from real Wix projects, so you can be confident they’ll help you find a domain that represents your brand, stays secure and supports your long-term goals. At Wix, we’ve guided millions of entrepreneurs, creators and small business owners in establishing a strong online presence. Our team keeps up with the latest in domain management, security and branding, making sure the advice you get is practical and backed by proven results. Think of this article as your trusted resource for every stage of domain ownership, from finding your first custom domain to protecting and growing your online identity. .org, .com, .net domain extensions FAQ What does .org mean on a website? The .org domain extension in a website URL stands for "organization." Originally intended for non-profit organizations, .org has since been expanded to include various types of entities, including for-profit organizations, educational institutions, community groups, and individuals. What does .com mean on a website? The .com domain extension in a URL stands for "commercial." It's the most widely recognized and commonly used top-level domain (TLD). The .com domain is often used by companies, e-Commerce websites and businesses of various sizes and types. It is widely understood and trusted by online users. What does .net mean on a website? The .net domain extension in a URL stands for "network." It was originally intended for organizations involved in networking technologies and services. However, like other domain extensions, the use of .net has expanded beyond its initial scope. Now it's commonly used by a variety of entities, including businesses, individuals, non-profit organizations, internet service providers (ISPs), and technology-related websites. It's often associated with websites that provide networking services, technology solutions, software development, or online platforms. Do people trust .com or .org more? Generally, people tend to trust .com domains more because they are widely recognized as commercial websites. .org domains, on the other hand, are typically associated with non-profit organizations and may be perceived differently depending on the context. Should I use .org if .com is taken? If the .com domain for your desired name is already taken, using the .org domain can be a viable alternative, especially if your website serves a non-profit or organizational purpose. However, consider whether using a different domain extension could potentially confuse or mislead your audience, and ensure that the .org domain accurately represents your website's content and purpose. Can I use .org for my business? While .org domains are traditionally associated with non-profit organizations, there are no strict rules prohibiting businesses from using them. However, using a .org domain for a commercial business may create confusion among users who expect .org websites to be non-profit in nature. It's important to consider the perception and expectations of your target audience before choosing a domain extension for your business. If possible, securing both the .com and .org domains for your business name can help prevent confusion and ensure consistency in branding. Is .net only for network-related sites? No, .net is not exclusively for network-related sites. Originally intended for network providers, it's now open for general use. While still popular among tech companies, .net can be used by any business or individual. It's often chosen as an alternative when the desired .com domain is unavailable. Are there country-specific versions of these extensions? Yes, there are country-specific versions of these extensions, known as country code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs). Examples include: .org.uk (United Kingdom) .com.au (Australia) .net.nz (New Zealand) These combine the generic extensions with country codes. They're often used to target specific geographic markets or comply with local regulations. Availability and registration rules vary by country. Can I own multiple extensions for the same domain name? Yes, you can own multiple extensions for the same domain name. This practice is common and has several benefits: Brand protection Preventing competitor acquisition Capturing typos Targeting different markets or purposes For example, you could own example.com, example.org and example.net. Each can be used separately or redirected to a primary domain. Do .org, .com and .net have different pricing? On Wix, .org, .com, and .net domains have the same pricing: 1. .com: $14.95/year 2. .org: $14.95/year 3. .net: $14.95/year While these three popular extensions are priced the same on Wix, it's worth noting that prices can vary on other platforms. Additionally, Wix often runs promotions that may affect these prices temporarily. Premium domains (highly desirable names) in these extensions may cost significantly more even on Wix. Always check the current pricing on Wix's domain registration page for the most up-to-date information. How to know if a domain name is available? Another business may have already taken your desired domain name, so the first step is to do a domain name search . If your first choice isn’t available, pop it into a domain name generator , which can help you find a similar domain name. You can also f ind the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup .

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