The first step to establishing an online profile for your business or brand is usually to buy a domain name.
To get the right domain name, you need to know a lot of (at first glance) complicated things. First, it is important to carefully consider a name that is both attention-grabbing and aligned with your content or business. Selecting an available name with all the right traits is the next critical step. Finally, (but often neglected) you should protect your newly acquired online asset.
Did you know that someone accidentally bought Google.com for $12 in 2015
In 2015, former Googler Sanmay Ved accidentally bought Google.com for $12, but Google Domains cancelled the order due to control over both the domain and registry service. Google offered him a reward of $6,006.13.They then doubled the amount to donate to an education non-profit in India. This incident highlights the potential for someone else to take over even a well-known domain name.
Source: https://money.cnn.com/2016/01/29/technology/google-domain-purchase/index.html
How do I register my own domain name?
As you can see, domain names are registered and need renewal, so you cannot, strictly speaking, buy a domain name. Yet, you can buy a domain name and keep it as long as you renew it. There are also important things you can do to help protect your domain name, which means you could use it forever if you wanted to.
This article guides you through registering the correct domain name and maintaining it.
Table of Contents
The anatomy of a domain name explained
A domain name consists of two parts: the actual name, which is customisable and chosen by the website owner, and the domain extension, selected by the owner, which follows the name and indicates the type of website.
In the following fictional domain name: myexample.COM “myexample” is the name and “.COM” is the extension.
Let’s keep it simple; most startups only need to know the essential Top-Level Domain or TLDs as extensions:
Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs):
These are domains like .COM, .ORG, or .NET. Familiar examples include:
- Google.com
- Amazon.com
- Facebook.com
- Wikipedia.org
- Microsoft.net
- Mozilla.org
Common Usage:
- .COM – This was originally only for businesses, but it is now the standard and is used more generally.
- .ORG – For organisations, most of the time non-profits.
- .NET – Originally used for network-related entities, now used for a wider range of websites.
Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs):
These are domains representing countries, like .UK for the United Kingdom or .CA for Canada. Familiar examples include:
- BBC.co.uk (United Kingdom)
- CBC.ca (Canada)
- NHK.or.jp (Japan)
Intended Usage Examples:
- .UK – United Kingdom
- .FR – France
- .DE – Germany
- .JP – Japan
New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs):
Of much less use (for most startups) are the recently created domain endings like .BLOG, .IO, or .APP. Examples include:
- Medium.com (uses .com but owns medium.blog)
- Ghost.org (uses .org but owns ghost.io)
- Slack.com (uses .com but owns slack.app)
Check out the complete list of domain name extensions at ICANN.org
Which domain extensions should you consider?
I think you should choose a well-known TLD, like:
UK businesses should give the most often used international TLD, .COM some thought. Why? Because commercial businesses use it, and internet users all over know it well.
The UK-specific .CO.UK TLD is sometimes overlooked, yet it is used for UK business websites. UK entities can use this ccTLD.
Consider your website’s purpose before choosing a TLD. For example, .APP for apps or .INFO for informational websites. These recently formed domain extensions may appeal but are less recognisable.
Tip: Check for and get other TLDs, including the most popular .COM, to safeguard your brand. This may cheaply prevent other parties from looking like you.
Step-by-Step Guide – How to research and choose the perfect domain name
Step 1: Choose a brand name first
The fact is that your domain name will also be your brand name.
While brands with big ambitions like: Google, Etsy, Twitter and Spotify can pick names that break normal branding rules. My take is that, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME’s) (which make up 99% of businesses) should think about following more well-known branding rules.
When brainstorming for a relevant name, it is important to reflect your brand’s tone and messaging. And to follow established branding rules, you should also: Keep it short, easy to remember, and easy to brand. Try to get a domain name with less than 15 letters that is simple to spell, say, and remember. Do not use hyphens, numbers, or uncommon words.
Tips for the fast generation of startup name ideas and relevant words:
Connected Words: Think about keywords related to your businesses, goods or service. To find synonyms suited for a scenario, try typing key phrases into a dictionary. For example: The TripAdvisor name uses “trip” to show they provide travel-related advice and services. The Best Buy name Implies good deals in this case on electronics and appliances.
Generic Words: Consider generic words that will work for your business as it grows. Caterpillar, for example, began as a company that made tractors. Its name, which comes from nature, worked well as the company grew into other areas of big machinery and equipment.
Audience Related Words: Use names that make people feel something to connect with your audience. For example: People who care about their health will like that the name “Innocent Drinks” makes them think of purity and simplicity.
Alliteration: Use alliteration—that is, repeated first sounds—to produce a memorable impression. Among these are Dunkin’ Doughnuts, PayPal and Coca-Cola.
Jokes or Wordplay: To establish a unique identity, use wordplay, links, and double meanings. Virgin, for example, is a provocative, unrelated term. Whereas Amazon serves as a metaphor for a great variety of products.
Metaphors or Symbols: Use metaphors or symbols that connect to the ideals of your brand. For example, the Gorilla Glue name implies strength and toughness. Jaguar the car brand uses this animal metaphor to evoke speed, agility, and power.
Online Domain Name Generators: Use a tool that comes up with names. Name generators driven by AI, like the ones on Shopify or Looka, can give you hundreds of name ideas right away based on the buzzwords you enter.
Group Brainstorming: Share the above and use group discussion with family, friends, and coworkers to get more ideas faster.
Now you have a list of possible names a domain availability check comes next:
Trademark TIP: When you get closer to name selection, conduct a Trademark Search and also search Google to see what comes up.
Step 2. Check the availability of your domain name ideas
Go to the website of a domain provider like GoDaddy, Namecheap, Name.com, or Bluehost to see if the name is available.
- Use the search bar, usually at the top of the home page. If not there check the navigation bar for domain names.
- Type the domain name you want and press “Enter.”
- The search will check if the name is available.
If the domain name is already taken, the provider may give you other ideas or related domain names. Some of these are changes to the second-level domain (SLD) or versions with different top-level domains (TLDs). I would generally avoid these suggested alternatives, as they won’t normally be as effective as the more usual TLDs.
Step 3. Choose a reliable domain registrar or web hosting services
NOTE: If you are considering running a website you may be better off buying your domain name through your hosting provider directly.
Choose a reputable domain registrar or hosting partner that fits your needs when you register a domain name. This will help keep your online profile safe and trustworthy.
Other than price, keep in mind the following factors:
Accreditation by ICANN: Choosing an ICANN-accredited registrar guarantees that the highest industry standards will be met.
Check supported domain extensions (TLDs and generic TLDs): Registrars offer many domain names, with as many as 700 top-level domains (TLDs) possible. Double-check that your provider offers domain extensions that suit your needs.
Appropriate and robust customer support: 24/7 customer service should include live chat, email, or phone support.
Prices and services: Making sure they give all the services you need at prices that suit you. This may include hosting plans, email-only plans, automatic renewal, domain name protection. Most hosts support specific Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress, and more.
Longer Registration: Longer registration times might save you money over time, and will allow you to secure your domain name
Security: Verify that the supplier has robust domain name security measures. Two-factor authentication (2FA), is a critical security measure which needs a second form of ID when logging in.
Below is one of the emails I get from Namecheap when anyone logs in or changes any settings in my account.
Online Reviews: Visit independent sites like Trustpilot or Google Reviews to see user reviews. I also look up “Best domain name providers uk reviews” on Google and pay attention to what sites like Techradar and Forbes have to say.
Step 4. Buy your domain (Domain registration)
Please see my “How do I permanently buy a domain name?” FAQ for instructions on how to secure your domain name forever.
A brief step-by-step tutorial to domain registration:
- Domain Name Search: Start with a domain name search using a trusted provider (i.e. GoDaddy, Namecheap, Name.com, or Bluehost).
- Domain Name Extension: Choose the right domain name extension (.CO.UK, .COM, etc.) for your business.
- Add to Cart: After selecting a domain, click ‘Add to Cart’. Select a registration duration and domain privacy if needed.
- Checkout Process: Review your choices and proceed.
- Payment Method: Enter your payment method to complete your purchase.
- Domain Management: After purchase, you may link your domain to your website and set up hosting.
Always make sure you choose a domain registrar with an excellent reputation, helpful customer service, and a variety of domain management choices.
Step 5. Verify your ownership
When buying a domain name, make sure all contact information is accurate. This brief guide explains verification:
- Check Your Inbox: Your domain provider will send a verification email after the purchase. You should get this at your registration address.
- Follow the Link: The email will contain a verification link. Clicking this link is a key step in confirming you are the domain owner.
Quick verification secures and activates your domain, so you may use your new web address immediately. Remember that correct contact information helps safeguard your domain names.
FAQ
How do I permanently buy a domain name?
You cannot permanently own a domain name; ownership is on an annual basis. But, you can pre-pay for up to 10 years, guaranteeing you will have the domain name for that duration. The following approaches increase your chances of keeping your name for as long as you need. Combine these tactics to effectively “buy” your name and limit the danger of inadvertent expiration or security issues:
Lock and prevent domain transfer
Usually, by default, you should ensure your domain is locked to ensure it cannot be transferred by unauthorised third parties.
Extended registration period
Domain name registration may be extended for up to 10 years with most registrars. This greatly lowers renewal frequency and the risk of forgetting to renew.
Set timely reminders
It is excellent practice to use Google Calendar or something similar to set reminders for domain renewal dates. You should set many reminders leading up to the expiration date to ensure you don’t miss renewing.
Renew in advance to avoid inconvenience
Prevent website and online business disruptions by renewing your domain before expiration.
Set auto-renewal
A lot of registrars let you set up auto-renewal, which charges your account and renews the name before it expires. This is one of the safest ways to ensure your domain doesn’t expire; but, be sure your payment method is always up-to-date.
Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and strong passwords
Domain name theft would be devastating for all business owners.
Make sure your name registrar account is safe by using strong passwords (see “Get a secure Password Manager” below) and two-factor authentication (2FA).
Implementing 2FA adds a level of security to your login process, such as a code sent to your phone.
Turn on two-factor authentication on all your accounts, including your name registrar’s, to help stop people from getting in without permission. Even though 2FA does not directly stop domains from expiring, it does protect against unauthorised entry and possible negative outcomes.
Get a secure Password Manager
To protect your domain registrar and other web accounts, I suggest that you use a password manager like Bitwarden, NordPass, or Dashlane. A password manager keeps your passwords safe in a database that is protected. This way, you can make strong passwords for all your accounts and never forget them. Again, your password manager account itself should be protected with 2FA.
Use a reputable registrar
Choose a well-established domain registrar with a good track record for security and customer service. I like and use Namecheap and Siteground.
Consolidate domains for easier renewal
In my opinion, with domain names, you could consider keeping your names in one well protected basket (See 2FA detail above).
I would consider using the same registrar or web host for your domains to simplify renewal. That way, you only need to remember one login and password.
Consider domain privacy
Hackers will have a harder time getting information about you or your name if you use domain privacy. This is because your personal information is hidden from the public WHOIS database.
Routinely check the state of your domain name
Check your domain name to prevent problems and guard your business. Your registration may become out-of-date when a business changes its address, phone number, or key employees leave.
Pay particular attention to email address accuracy. This is how you receive vital domain alerts, including reminders for renewal.
Are there restrictions on domain names?
While most TLDs let anyone register, others have limitations. These limitations should be taken into account while selecting a domain name:
- Country-Specific Requirements: Some ccTLDs require users to live or do business in the country in question. Check the rules of the ccTLD you like before applying.
- Verification Processes: TLDs like .GOV and .EDU are restricted for certain entities and call for verification. One can register a .GOV domain under a government agency. Likewise, .EDU names are typically restricted to recognised institutions. During registration, some TLDs need documentation or eligibility confirmation.
- Trademark Protection: Under trademark protection, some brand owners may be the only ones who can use branded domain names. If you use someone else’s brand without permission, you could face legal action or a dispute over your domain name. Before you buy a name, look for trademarks on every name you want to buy.
- Community-Based TLDs: Some TLDs, like .COOP or .MUSEUM, are only for certain businesses or groups. There are rules you have to follow and be involved in the community or business to register a name with these TLDs.
- Legal Restrictions: Some TLDs limit content or website type. Registration for.xxx, a TLD for pornographic websites, must follow industry standards. Understand the legal duties of your chosen TLD.
- Registration and Renewal Costs: Different TLDs have different registration and renewal costs. Before choosing a TLD, first consider its long-term costs.
Carefully check your selected TLD’s rules and restrictions before registering your domain.
How much does it cost to buy a domain name?
The cost of purchasing a domain name can vary depending on your chosen extension or TLD (top-level domain). You should also think about the fees that you will have to pay to keep the domain name and any extra services you might need, like privacy protection or SSL certificates.
MY SUGGESTED RED LINES: Security is key to me, so I would not pick a provider that doesn’t offer Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) as a standard. NB:2FA is an extra layer of security that adds another step to the traditional username and password login process.
The average costs for common domain name TLDs (Top-Level Domains) in British pounds are as follows:
Common TLD average domain name costs per year:
- .com: £6.99 – £12.99
- .co.uk: £11.98 – £17.98
- .net: £10 – £17
- .org: £10 – £17
- .info: £24.98 – £41.98
Please keep in mind that these prices are just averages and can change depending on deals, sign-up times, and providers. Additionally, first-year registration prices are often lower than renewal prices. Key factors to consider:
- Registration period: Longer registration periods may offer discounts.
- Renewal costs: These are often higher than initial registration costs.
- Add-ons: Services like business email accounts or domain privacy security may make the total cost go up.
- Transfer fees: If you want to move your domain to a different registrar, there may be associated costs. Something to consider if you have a host in mind you may wish to register your domain name with your hosting provider.
It’s worth noting that some newer or specialised TLDs can be more expensive. For example:
- .io: £45 – £73 per year (popular domain for tech companies)
- .app: £17 – £22 per year (good for apps)
- .shop: £35 – £45 per year (perhaps for shops)
Sources:
https://www.ionos.co.uk/digitalguide/domains/domain-tips/how-much-does-a-domain-cost
https://www.hostinger.co.uk/tutorials/domain-name-cost-uk
Can I get a domain name for free?
Yes, but (and it is a big but).
Free domains can come with some hosting or website building services. Even if the service meets your needs, a free domain name may be burdensome. Consider that sacrificing your ambitions to save a modest amount of money may not be advisable.
I would carefully check any limitations, including how you might transfer the name away from the provider if required.
Website builders like Shopify and Squarespace allow you to have something like a free domain name. But these usually come with limits, like having the builder’s brand in the URL, like Shopify’s free yourbrand.myshopify.com. You are less likely to build a reputation or inbound links from third party websites. This type of domain name will also be a big problem if you want to move away.
Is it worth paying for a premium domain?
No! On balance, I don’t think so.
When looking at purchasing a premium domain, you should budget hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars. If many companies are interested in the same name, the current owner may increase the price to a level you may not find acceptable.
I would say that in most cases, there must be a better alternative. If it’s a name someone else has already thought of, does that make it a great name?
How is it valued? Its only worth what you’re willing to pay for it. Not every “premium” domain is worth something. Many times, personal circumstances define value more than market demand.
In the past, keywords in domain names were used to make search engine marketing easier. This isn’t quite true anymore.
Premium domains have less expensive alternatives (see What to do if your domain name isn’t available? below).
What to do if your domain name isn’t available?
Struggling to find an available domain name? Consider adding prefixes and suffixes to your list of words. Try mixing in some of the following into a domain checker tool:
Try Prefixes (Buy, Get, The, etc.)
BuyDig.com: An online shop specialising in electronics.
GetPocket.com: A service for saving and discovering articles.
GetResponse.com: An email marketing platform.
TheVerge.com: A technology news website.
TheGuardian.com: A major UK news outlet.
Try Suffixes (Store, Hub, etc.)
AppleStore.com: The official online store for Apple products.
FoodHub.com: A platform for food delivery and catering services.
If that doesn’t work, delve deeper and consider purchasing a quality branding book. I like: “Hello, My Name Is Awesome: How to Create Brand Names That Stick” by Alexandra Watkins
Secure your domain today!
Throughout my career as a Web Designer and SEO, I have assisted in creating many prominent business names.
CoolNameIdeas.com
A side project of mine that helped companies, websites, blogs, and other projects find .COM domain names.
SnapSurveys.com
Snap Surveys Ltd appointed me as a web developer responsible for ensuring the integrity of its brand and website.
WaterCoolersDirect.com
I was a founding Shareholder and Marketing Director at WaterCoolers Direct.com Ltd / Quench Water Systems Ltd.
If you need help with your Startup name contact me today.
