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Choosing the right domain name is the first step to building your online presence but it doesn’t stop there. Picking the right domain registrar is just as important. Your domain name is the web address people will use to find your site and it’s often the first impression potential customers will have of your business. 

With so many websites already online, it can be challenging to pick a domain name that not only fits your brand but is also available. This is where a domain registrar comes in.  

Finding the right domain registrar is crucial to getting your business up and running online. But not all domain registrars are the same. How do you find the one that’s best for your needs? Here are a few key things to consider ensuring your website is set up for success.

What is a domain registrar? 

A domain registrar is a company that helps you register and manage domain names. When you choose a name for your website, the registrar ensures if it’s available or not and helps you secure it by assigning it an IP address. Until you purchase a domain, the name you want isn’t officially yours. 

The registrar also keeps track of all the domain names that have already been taken, so you can easily check if your desired name is available. This helps you avoid accidentally selecting a name that’s already in use, keeping you clear of any legal issues. It’s important to choose the right domain registrar that fits your needs for a smooth registration process. 

What to look for in a domain registrar 

Choosing the right domain registrar is essential for a smooth website launch and long-term online management. Here are the key factors to consider: 

User-friendly interface 

A domain registrar should have an easy-to-use platform. You want a straightforward domain search process that helps you quickly find available names. Therefore, look for features like search filters and suggestions if your preferred domain is taken. The simpler and more intuitive the process, the better. 

Competitive pricing and renewal rates 

While the initial price for registering a domain is important, you also need to consider renewal rates for the following years. Some registrars, like Bigrock, Namecheap or Google Domains, offer cheap registration options for the first year but may have higher rates for subsequent years. Always check renewal prices before you commit to a domain. 

Domain extensions 

A good registrar should offer a variety of domain extensions (e.g., .com, .net, .org) so you can choose one that fits your needs. Some registrars even offer newer or specialty extensions like .store or .blog. 

Customer support 

Choose a registrar with solid customer support options like 24/7 live chat, email or phone. Good support can save you time and frustration if issues arise with your domain registration. By considering these factors, you’ll be on your way to choosing a reliable and affordable registrar for your domain. 

Choosing the right domain registrar for your needs 

When selecting a domain registrar, it’s important to align your choice with the type of website you’re building. Here’s what to keep in mind: 

Consider the type of domain you need 

The purpose of your website will determine the features you need. For personal blogs, a simple registrar with basic domain registration might be enough. However, for business websites, you’ll want a registrar that offers reliable customer support, security features like SSL certificates and easy management tools. If you’re launching an eCommerce store, consider a registrar that bundles domain registration, hosting and website builders together, streamlining the process and saving time. 

Evaluate the level of customer support required 

Consider how much customer support you might need. If you’re not experienced with domain management, choose a registrar that offers 24/7 support through live chat, phone or email. Bluehost stands out for excellent customer service, ensuring you have the help you need whenever you encounter issues, whether it’s managing your domain or resolving technical problems. 

Check for specific features or services 

Consider any additional services you might need, such as hosting, email, or website builders. Bluehost, which provides these extras, can offer a more seamless and integrated experience, especially for beginners. Having everything under one roof simplifies managing your domain and website, making the process hassle-free. 

8 best domain registrars to choose in 2025  

Choosing the right domain registrar is crucial for your website’s long-term success. Below are some of the top domain registrars. 

Bluehost

Bluehost is primarily known as a web hosting provider but is also well-regarded for domain registration services. When you sign up for Bluehost hosting, you get a free domain for the first year, making it an attractive option for those looking to bundle services. 

Bluehost Domain

Bluehost is recognized for its excellent reputation in the hosting industry, offering competitive pricing for shared hosting plans. Also, if you’re planning to build a WordPress website, Bluehost is a WordPress recommended hosting provider in managed WordPress hosting. 

One thing to keep in mind is that privacy protection comes as an additional service, which can be valuable if you’re registering a domain with personal information. However, it’s something to consider if you’re on a tight budget. 

Domain registration with Bluehost includes convenient features like auto-renewal and domain locking, which prevents unauthorized transfers. Plus, if you run into any issues, our customer support is available 24/7 to assist you. 

Pros

  • Domain Privacy + Protection: Bluehost offers Domain Privacy + Protection as a paid add-on service. The service protects your personal contact information by replacing it with generic Bluehost details in the public WHOIS database. However, certain hosting plans, such as Choice Plus and Pro, include Domain Privacy + Protection at no extra cost. 
  • Easy-to-use dashboard: Our user-friendly interface allows you to manage your domains, hosting and websites from a single, easy-to-navigate platform. 
  • All-in-one solution: Bluehost offers a comprehensive range of services, including web hosting, website builders, email hosting and domain registration, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking for simplicity and convenience. 
  • 24/7 customer support: Bluehost’s support team is available around the clock through live chat, phone and email, ensuring help is always available when you need it. 
  • Affordable pricing: Competitive rates for domain registration, often bundled with hosting packages, making it a cost-effective choice for website owners. 
  • WordPress hosting leader: Bluehost is a recommended WordPress hosting provider, offering optimized features and automatic updates, which is especially beneficial for businesses focused on building WordPress sites. 

Cons

  • Privacy protection as an additional service: While WHOIS privacy protection is free for the first year, it becomes a paid service after that. However, this cost is quite reasonable given the overall value Bluehost provides. 
  • Higher renewal rates: Domain renewal rates can be higher than the initial registration price. However, the convenience of bundled services and excellent customer support make it a valuable option in the long run. Therefore, we recommend purchasing a domain for a longer tenure like 5yrs or 10yrs as domain prices are also subject to increase. 

Domain.com 

Domain.com is a popular choice for domain registration, offering a wide range of over 300 domain extensions to suit various website needs. 

They provide an AI-powered domain name search tool that helps users find the perfect domain by entering a simple prompt or specifying preferences such as length, extension and keywords. However, the search results can sometimes be less accurate, even with more specific? 

Unlike many other registrars, Domain.com sells its services separately. For example, it adds WHOIS privacy protection by default, which could increase the overall cost if you don’t notice it during checkout. 

You can also bundle domain registration with additional services like web hosting, WordPress hosting or their website builder. However, they don’t offer cloud or VPS hosting options. 

Pros

  • Wide range of domain extensions: Domain.com offers over 300 domain extensions, giving you plenty of options to match your website’s niche. 
  • AI-powered domain search tool: The AI-powered tool helps you find the best domain names based on your input (keywords, length, etc.). 
  • Automatic domain expiration protection: Domain.com extends your domain automatically for one year if payment fails, avoiding any accidental domain expiration. 
  • Free matching domain with .online extension: When registering certain domains, you can get a matching .online extension with privacy protection for free. 

Cons 

  • Bundled WHOIS privacy: WHOIS privacy is included by default, which means that if you’re not paying attention, you may end up with an extra charge when checking out. 
  • Limited hosting options: Domain.com does not offer cloud hosting or VPS hosting, which may be a disadvantage for users who need more advanced hosting solutions. 

Network Solutions 

Network Solutions, established in 1979, is a veteran domain registrar offering a wide range of web services. It provides competitive pricing on domains, though renewal costs can be higher. Notably, it offers a free .online domain for one year with qualifying purchases, plus free privacy protection for both domains. 

Pros

  • Wide range of services: Includes domain registration, web hosting, website builder tools, SSL certificates and professional email. 
  • Free privacy protection: Offers free privacy protection for both domains. 
  • Business-focused features: Provides premium features for businesses like advanced domain management, custom email and professional website building tools. 
  • Extended support options: 24/7 customer support plus personalized consultation for larger businesses. 

Cons 

  • Higher renewal costs: Renewal fees are often higher than initial registration costs, which can be a downside for those seeking affordable long-term options. 
  • Pricey compared to competitors: Network Solutions can be more expensive compared to other registrars, especially for basic services. 
  • Limited scalability: While they offer strong support for businesses, their services may not be as flexible for startups or small businesses looking for budget-friendly options. 

NameSilo 

NameSilo is an excellent choice for those looking to purchase domains in bulk. Their easy-to-use bulk configuration allows users to set the duration and activate auto-renewal during checkout, making it simple to manage large orders. Plus, customers who qualify for the can explain this can receive savings on domain renewals. 

NameSilo also has a marketplace where you can buy and sell premium or expired domains, with a low commission fee and no listing fees. The platform provides helpful statistics, free domain parking and landing page solutions to help manage multiple domains. If you’re looking to acquire a registered domain, you can backorder it through can explain this 

When you register a new domain, you get free domain protection and email forwarding as part of the package. You can also link your domain to third-party services and adjust your nameservers easily, saving you time on setup. 

Pros 

  • Bulk domain configuration: Allows easy setup for multiple domains at once, including auto-renewal, nameserver configuration and WHOIS updates. 
  • Low prices: Competitive pricing for both domain registration and renewals, often with discounts for bulk purchases. 
  • Free domain protection and email forwarding: Offers both as part of the domain registration package, which adds extra value. 
  • Catch.club integration: Allows users to backorder registered domains that they want to acquire. 

Cons 

  • Limited hosting options: While NameSilo offers hosting, it doesn’t include domain registration with its hosting plans, which may require users to manage domains separately.  
  • Lack of advanced website tools: Unlike some competitors, NameSilo doesn’t offer comprehensive website building or design tools (outside of the free website builder). 
  • No support for premium email hosting: Though email forwarding is available, there’s no dedicated professional email hosting service. 

HostGator 

HostGator is another popular hosting provider that also offers domain registration services. When you purchase one of their hosting plans, you’ll receive a free domain name included in the package. If you’re looking for a domain, HostGator offers a variety of domain options, including alternatives to .com or .org if your preferred choice isn’t available. 

HostGator automatically locks your domains to prevent unauthorized transfers and will renew your domain registration (though keep in mind, the renewal rate might be higher, so it’s good to double-check). They also offer WHOIS privacy protection for an additional fee. 

Since HostGator provides domains, hosting and even website building services, it can be a convenient one-stop shop for all your website needs. 

Pros

  • Affordable pricing: Budget-friendly domain registration, especially when bundled with hosting plans. 
  • Free domain with hosting plans: When you purchase a hosting plan, you get a free domain, which can be great value for those starting a new website. 
  • Excellent customer support: 24/7 support via live chat and phone ensures that help is always available when needed. 
  • Top-tier uptime: Known for reliable uptime, ensuring your website stays live and your domain remains secure. 
  • Convenience: As both a hosting provider and domain registrar, HostGator makes it easy to manage everything in one place. 

Cons 

  • Higher renewal rates: While HostGator offers affordable initial pricing, renewal rates can be higher, so it’s essential to monitor costs closely. 
  • WHOIS privacy protection cost: WHOIS privacy is available but comes at an additional cost, which may be a downside for those who want it included for free. 
  • Not ideal for domain-only customers: If you only need domain registration and not hosting, there are other providers that may offer more competitive domain-only prices. 

Namecheap 

Namecheap offers an easy-to-use domain search tool that helps users quickly find domain names by entering keywords, variations or specific price ranges. For those looking to register multiple domains at once, they can upload a CSV file with a list of domains to streamline the process. 

During checkout, users can claim free lifetime domain privacy protection, which helps keep their personal information secure. 

In addition to domain registration, Namecheap provides several add-ons to help launch a website, such as shared hosting, WordPress hosting, DNS hosting and SSL certificates for secure HTTPS connections. 

For those interested in domain flipping or acquiring valuable domains, Namecheap integrates with Sedo, a major domain marketplace, allowing users to bid on premium domains. They also offer handshake domains, which are based on a decentralized blockchain system, for those looking for unique domain extensions. 

Pros 

  • Free lifetime domain privacy protection: Included with domain registrations to protect personal information from being exposed in WHOIS databases. 
  • Easy-to-use domain search tool: Simplifies the process of finding domains, with options to search by keywords, variations or price ranges. 
  • Bulk domain registration: Allows users to upload a CSV file with a list of domains to register up to 5,000 domains at once, streamlining bulk purchases. 
  • Domain vault: Adds an extra layer of security by limiting access and monitoring DNS changes for your domains. 
  • Sedo integration for domain bidding: Users can bid on premium domains or find valuable domain names through the Sedo marketplace. 
  • Handshake domains: Offers unique decentralized blockchain-based domains for those looking for new domain extensions. 
  • Affordable pricing: Competitive pricing on domains and hosting, often with discounts for bulk purchases or long-term registrations. 

Cons 

  • Mixed customer support feedback: While 24/7 live chat is available, some users report slower response times or inconsistent support quality. 
  • Renewal pricing can vary: Though initial domain registration is affordable, renewal prices can sometimes be higher, particularly for certain domain extensions. 
  • Limited advanced website features: While Namecheap offers hosting and SSL certificates, it may not be as feature-rich for large businesses compared to other hosting providers. 

DreamHost 

DreamHost is a trusted option for fast and secure domain registration and website hosting, helping your business build trust with customers. They offer competitive pricing on domain names and every domain purchase comes with free private WHOIS registration, which means DreamHost’s contact information will be listed instead of yours to protect your privacy. Additionally, your domains and security features are automatically renewed to keep things hassle-free. 

DreamHost also offers unlimited subdomains and a variety of hosting options, including shared, dedicated and VPS hosting. Their user-friendly domain management tools make it easy to handle DNS record editing, domain forwarding and transfers, allowing you to add sections to your website without going through the registration process again. 

This version simplifies the language and removes the pricing, making it more concise while still emphasizing DreamHost’s key features. 

Pros 

  • Free private WHOIS registration: Protects your personal information by listing DreamHost’s contact details instead of your own. 
  • Automatic renewals: Domains and security features are automatically renewed, ensuring you don’t miss any important updates. 
  • Comprehensive hosting services: DreamHost offers shared, VPS and dedicated hosting, as well as cloud solutions, catering to a wide range of business needs. 
  • Unlimited subdomains: A great feature for businesses that need multiple subdomains for different sections or services of their website. 
  • Reliable customer support: Offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone and email. 
  • Clear pricing: Known for transparent pricing, with no hidden fees or unexpected charges. 

Cons 

  • Limited domain management options compared to competitors: While DreamHost offers basic domain management tools, it may not be as feature-rich for advanced users compared to some other domain registrars. 
  • Higher cost for some services: While DreamHost is competitive in pricing, certain hosting options and add-ons may be more expensive compared to other providers. 
  • Mixed reviews on transfer process: Some users report issues with domain transfers, particularly when moving away from DreamHost. 

Hover 

Hover is a great option for those looking for a simple and transparent domain registration process. With an easy-to-navigate interface and clear pricing, it’s ideal for users who want a straightforward domain shopping experience. 

While Hover’s domain registration costs are slightly higher than some other registrars, there are no surprise renewal fees and they include free WHOIS privacy protection. Plus, if you own more than ten domains, you can get discounts on renewals. 

One standout feature is that Hover doesn’t charge domain transfer fees. Instead, they simply add an extra year of registration to your existing term. 

Hover also offers email hosting services, including email forwarding with built-in anti-spam and anti-virus protection. You can choose from full email hosting or just email forwarding. 

Although Hover doesn’t provide web hosting, it easily integrates with popular website builders and publishing platforms like Shopify, Ecwid and Twitch. Their support team is available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern time through live chat, phone and ticketing. 

Pros 

  • Free WHOIS privacy protection: Included with all domain registrations to protect your personal information. 
  • No domain transfer fees: Instead of charging transfer fees, Hover adds an extra year of registration to your current term when you transfer a domain. 
  • Bulk pricing: Discounts are available on domain renewals if you own more than ten domains, making it a good option for domain investors or businesses with multiple domains. 
  • Hover Connect: Quickly points your domain to popular website builders like Shopify, Ecwid and Twitch for easy integration. 

Cons 

  • Higher initial domain registration cost: Hover’s domain registration fees tend to be higher compared to some competitors, though this is offset by their lack of surprise renewal fees. 
  • Limited hosting options: Hover does not provide traditional web hosting, so users need to integrate with third-party services.
  • Limited support hours: Hover’s support is available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern time, which may not be ideal for businesses requiring 24/7 support. 

Domain search and registration process 

Finding and registering a domain name is a straightforward and user-friendly process. Here’s how you can do it: 

Domain search
  1. Search for your domain name 

Start by heading to the Bluehost website and heading to domain name search. Domain Name Search website and using domain search tool. You’ll need to enter the name you want for your website and click on “Search”. Bluehost will check if the domain is available or already taken. 

  1. Choose your domain extension 

Bluehost offers a variety of domain extensions (.com, .net, .org,. store, etc.), so you can choose the one that fits your brand or business. If your preferred extension is already taken, we’ll suggest alternatives, or you can try a new domain name. 

  1. Add it to your cart 

Once you’ve found the perfect domain name and extension, click “Add to Cart.” If the domain is available, it will be reserved for you. 

Domain cart
  1. Complete the registration 

You’ll need to create a Bluehost account or log in if you already have one. You’ll be asked to provide some basic details, including your contact information, to complete the registration. 

  1. Choose your plan 

While Bluehost offers a domain registration service, we also provide web hosting plans. If you plan to host your website with us, you can choose a hosting plan (many users opt for shared hosting or WordPress hosting) during the checkout process. 

  1. Review and complete your order 

After selecting your hosting plan (if applicable), review your domain registration details, confirm the order and proceed to payment. Bluehost will register your domain name and send you a confirmation email. 

  1. Manage your domain 

Once your domain is registered, you can manage it through your Bluehost account dashboard. From here, you can adjust your domain settings, set up email addresses linked to your domain and even transfer it if necessary. 

Domain registration best practices 

Registering a domain is an essential step in building your online presence. To ensure you choose the right domain and protect it effectively, follow these best practices: 

Choose a memorable and relevant domain name 

Your domain name should be easy to spell, short and relevant to your brand or business. Ideally, it should reflect what your business does and be easy for customers to remember. Avoid using complex words or phrases that might confuse your audience. 

Pick a reputable domain registrar 

Select a trusted registrar known for its reliability and customer support. Ensure they offer competitive pricing and have a clear, user-friendly interface for managing your domain. Popular registrar Bluehost provides solid customer support and security features. 

Enable WHOIS privacy protection 

WHOIS privacy hides your personal contact details from public databases, offering you a layer of protection against spam, identity theft and unwanted solicitations. Many registrars offer this service for an additional fee. 

Lock your domain 

Domain locking prevents unauthorized changes or transfers to your domain. Once locked, no one can transfer your domain without your approval, adding an extra layer of security. 

Set up domain renewal reminder 

Ensure you set up renewal reminders well in advance of your domain’s expiration. Losing a domain due to an expired registration can cause you to lose access to your website or email services. 

Final thoughts 

Selecting the right domain registrar is a crucial step in building your online presence. A reliable registrar not only helps secure your domain name but also provides the tools and support needed for smooth registration and long-term management of your website.  

By considering factors like pricing, customer support, security features and ease of use, you can make a smart choice that ensures your business stays online and protected. 

Ready to register your domain and launch your website? Bluehost offers everything you need, from domain registration to reliable web hosting, all in one place. With 24/7 support and seamless integration, getting started has never been easier. 

FAQs 

How do I know if my domain name is available? 

Most domain registrars have a search tool that allows you to check the availability of your desired domain name. If it’s taken, the tool will suggest similar alternatives. 

Can I transfer my domain to another registrar? 

Yes, you can transfer your domain to another registrar, but it typically involves a process that may take a few days and could require you to unlock the domain first. 

Do I need to buy WHOIS privacy protection? 

While it’s optional, WHOIS privacy protection is highly recommended to keep your personal information private and reduce spam. 

What happens if I forget to renew my domain? 

If you forget to renew your domain, it may expire and you could lose ownership. Many registrars offer an auto-renewal feature to prevent this from happening.

  • I’m Mohit Sharma, a content writer at Bluehost who focuses on WordPress. I enjoy making complex technical topics easy to understand. When I’m not writing, I’m usually gaming. With skills in HTML, CSS, and modern IT tools, I create clear and straightforward content that explains technical ideas.

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