Choosing a domain is one of the most important steps when creating a website, but unfortunately, many people underestimate it, focusing more on design and content. However, the domain name is the face of your project online. It affects how easily people find, remember, and trust your site.
To make the process easier for you, here are some helpful tips on how to pick a domain that will work for you.
1. Choose the Right Domain Extension
We’re all familiar with .com domains, and for good reason — it’s still the most popular choice. But before you register the first available .com, consider the purpose of your website:
- For business: If it’s a commercial project, .com or .biz are excellent options. People instinctively associate these extensions with business.
- Non-profit organizations: If you’re a charity or non-profit, go for .org — it instantly builds trust.
- Local projects: If your site is targeting a specific country or region, it’s better to use local domain extensions, like .ua for Ukraine. This not only improves SEO but also increases trust among local users.
But if your site is aimed at a global audience, .com is still the optimal choice. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other extensions, like:
- .co: popular among startups, often associated with companies and communities.
- .info: ideal for informational sites.
- .me: perfect for personal blogs or portfolios.
2. Keep it Short and Memorable
The best domains are short and easy to remember. People don’t like long, complicated names, especially if they include hyphens or numbers. The simpler the name, the faster people will find and remember it. Also, try to choose a domain that sounds good and is easy to pronounce.
Example: Instead of a long, boring bestwebdesigncompany.com, choose something like webmagic.com — it’s simpler and more modern.
3. Forget Exact Keywords
In the past, people tried to stuff exact keywords into their domain names, like buyshoesonline.com or cheapflights.com. Today, this is no longer as effective, and in some cases, it can even hurt your SEO. It’s better to create a unique, branded name. For example, Airbnb or Spotify — these aren’t just words, they are powerful brands that people remember.
4. Avoid Numbers and Hyphens
Numbers and hyphens can confuse people. If someone hears your domain name aloud, they won’t know whether to type the number as a digit or as a word. Imagine trying to explain: “My website is best-design4u.com” — better to avoid such complications from the start.
5. Check for Trademark Issues
It’s crucial to make sure your chosen domain doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks. The last thing you want is a lawsuit or losing your domain because you violated someone’s intellectual property rights. Check databases like USPTO (for the US) or your country’s trademark registry to ensure your name is unique.
6. Don’t Delay Registration
Domain names get snapped up quickly. If you find a great available name, don’t delay — register it immediately! It’s cheaper to register it now than to buy it later from a reseller.
7. Use a Domain Name Generator
Sometimes, no matter how hard you think, it feels like all the good domain names are already taken. In this case, use domain name generators like Lean Domain Search or NameMesh. These tools can offer you plenty of options you might not have thought of.
8. Think About the Future
Consider how your business might grow in the future. If you’re selling only t-shirts now, that doesn’t mean you won’t expand your product range later. Choose a domain that allows for future growth, so you don’t have to change it when your business evolves.
Conclusion
Choosing a domain name is more than just a technical step. It’s the foundation of your online presence and your brand. Keep it short, memorable, and unique. Don’t be afraid to get creative, and make sure your name piques interest and makes people want to learn more. And if you’re unsure, you can always turn to professionals or use a domain name generator for ideas.
