What is a domain name?
Let’s start from the beginning: what is a domain name exactly? A domain name is your website’s address. It allows it to be found on the web more easily. It works as a physical address in a way.
Domain names are made up of three parts: the prefix, the domain, and the extension. The domain is the words in the address, while the extension is the letters at the end (.com, .net, .aus). Since the arrival of the Internet, all websites have had a unique domain name. Indeed, it is not possible to take a domain name already used unless you purchase it from the owner.
Consequently, you will have to choose a domain name during the creation of your website. What mistakes should you avoid if you want to have a relevant domain name?
How to choose the perfect domain name
There are many things to keep in mind when choosing a domain name. You might even have to choose your domain name before finishing your website. You must then be ready as soon as possible if you do not want your indecision to harm your site. Here are some pieces of advice to help you choose the perfect domain name for your website.
0- Check the availability
Before choosing your domain name or even your business name, check if it is not used by someone else first. This will help you avoid any disappointment. Of course, you can always choose another domain extension if the name you want is unavailable; however, make sure there is no confusion between the two names. To check if a domain name is available, you can write it directly to the search bar or look on a website where you can purchase domain names.
1- Choose your project or business name
The first thing you should use as a domain name is your project or business name. If needed and according to the availability, you could add hyphens between the words or not. If you cannot use your business name, choose something relevant. People must be able to associate your domain name to your business easily.
2- Stay short
Next, make sure you do not take a domain name that is too long. The longer it will be, the more difficult it will be to remember it. If needed, you can use the most important keyword of your business name or an abbreviation.
3- Be unique
Some people think that by choosing a domain name that is similar to a popular website, they will increase their chances of having a lot of visitors. This method has two critical perverse consequences. First, the people that visit these websites will not be looking for yours. For example, if they visit your site accidentally because they made a spelling mistake, they will leave immediately. This will increase your website bounce rate.
4- Avoid any errors
Before choosing your domain name, make sure it has no errors or spelling mistakes. If you take it and realize there is an error, you will have to purchase another one. Consequently, take a few seconds to validate your domain name in order to avoid any supplementary and unnecessary fees.
5- Where can I get my domain name?
Now that you know what domain name you would like to use for your website, where can you get it? First, if you create your site with WebSelf, know that you will have access to domain names even if you decide to create a free website. Regarding free websites, you will be able to choose a domain name with a webself.net subdomain. For those who decided to create a premium site, you have access to more options. If you have selected one of our annual plans, a free domain name is included in your subscription for a year. If you already have a domain name or have chosen a monthly subscription, it is possible to connect or purchase a domain name and link it to your WebSelf website.
If needed, you can find answers to frequent questions about domain names on our help center.
In conclusion, we hope we managed to give you a few tips on how to choose the perfect domain name for your website. Do not forget that it must be relevant and easy to remember. And if you already have a domain name, it is possible to link it to your WebSelf site. Once the creation of your website is finished and your domain name is chosen, think about the SEO!