Key highlights
- Your domain name is your online identity—make it memorable, relevant and easy to type.
- Learn how to choose a domain name that boosts branding, ranking and credibility.
- If your preferred domain is taken, explore variations and extensions or negotiate for ownership.
- Get your domain name hassle free with Bluehost and enjoy free registration with a hosting plan.
Introduction
Choosing a domain name might seem simple, but it’s the most crucial step in building your website. A domain not only represents your digital identity but also makes it easier for users to find and remember your website.
A strong domain not only strengthens your brand but also improves SEO and credibility—making it essential whether you’re launching a blog, eCommerce store or business website.
Think about some of the most recognizable websites—Google.com, Amazon.com or Facebook.com. These names are short, easy to spell and instantly identifiable.
A creative, memorable and brandable domain plays a big part in drawing visitors to your site. However, getting it right might be a challenge. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Read on to learn how to choose a domain name that perfectly represents you online.
Related content: Is my domain name available for purchase?
What is a domain name?
A domain name is the web address people type into their browser to visit a website.
For example, just like Google searching for ‘Bluehost hosting’ on takes you to the site, entering Bluehost.com in your browser brings you straight to the website.”
You can purchase a domain name from a domain registrar if it’s available.
Also read: How Do Domains Work? The Ultimate Guide
A detailed explanation
A domain name is your website’s unique address on the internet. Instead of a lengthy, complex IP address made of numbers– a domain name makes it easy for people to find your site. Think of it as the virtual address of your website, just like a physical address helps locate a business in the real world.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) manages website names to make sure each one is unique. When you register a domain name, ICANN checks its database to ensure it’s not already taken. If the domain name is available, you can buy and keep it, provided you renew it on time.
Each registered domain is recorded in the public WHOIS (Who Is) database, which stores details like the domain owner’s contact information, registration date and expiration date. Some domain registrars offer domain privacy protection to keep your personal details hidden from public view.
Many web hosting companies offer a free domain name for the first year when you purchase a hosting plan.
Also read: Is my domain name available for purchase?
What are the 16 best tips for how to choose a domain name?
Now that you understand what a domain name is, let’s go through the key tips to choosing the perfect one for your website.
1. Think like a visitor
Your website name should be easy for visitors to remember and type in a browser. Think about what they would want. Does your name fit your site? Is it something people can easily hold in their minds? A clear name helps people see your brand better and makes it simpler for them to return.
2. Use (but don’t overuse) keywords
Using relevant keywords in your domain can boost SEO and make it easier for users to discover your site. Keywords should match what your website is about, so visitors know what to expect. When used wisely, they can also help your site rank higher in search results and attract more visitors.
If you own a bakery, a name like “[TastyBakes].com” can be a good choice. But don’t try too hard to include keywords. Adding too many can make the domain feel strange and hard to remember.
For example, “[BuyBestCheapShoesOnline].com” includes many keywords. In contrast, “[TrendyFootwear].com” sounds more natural. It is also easier to turn into a brand.
3. Target your local area
If your website is focused on a particular location, consider including location-based keywords in your domain name. This ensures that your site caters to a specific area, making it more attractive to local users and helping with local SEO efforts.
This is very helpful for businesses and services that operate in a specific area. Using a local or industry related website name can increase your local appeal and connection to the industry.
4. Keep it short, simple and easy to spell
Long or complicated domain length increases the risk of typos and confusion. Short names are easier to remember and share with others. It’s best to stay away from tricky spellings and tough words. Choose something simple and easy to get.
For example, “[BestCakes].com” for your baking business domain name is much simpler than “[TheBestCakesInTheWorld].com.”
5. Choose the right domain extension
One widely used domain name extension is “.com” and it’s usually the best choice as it’s widely recognized and trusted. However, other extensions like “.net,” “.org,” or industry specific TLDs like “.tech” or “.shop” can work if “.com” isn’t available.
For example, a nonprofit organization might prefer “[HelpingHands].org” over “[HelpingHands].com.”
6. Avoid numbers, hyphens and special characters
Numbers and special characters can confuse visitors. If someone hears your domain name spoken aloud, they might not know whether a number is written as a digit or spelled out. Hyphens also make domain names harder to type and remember.
For example, “[Healthy-Eating4You].com” could be confusing, while “[HealthyEatingForYou].com” is much clearer.
7.Create a domain brandable and unique
People form an impression of someone within seconds of meeting them. The same is true when they first encounter your domain name. Don’t use keywords that are too generic. Chances are that competitors already use them.
Instead, your domain name should stand out from competitors. Unique and brandable domain names strengthens your online identity and makes your website more recognizable. Think of names that are catchy, creative and easy to pronounce.
For example, A short and creative name like “[ZestyBites].com” for a food blog is more brandable than “[BestRecipesOnline].com.”
8. Check domain history before buying
Before purchasing an existing domain, check its history. If the domain was used for spam or other harmful activities, it could affect your website’s reputation and ranking. Use tools like the Wayback Machine or domain history checkers to review past usage.
For example, if “[QuickLoans].com” was previously used for spammy lending services, it might harm your business even if you plan to use it for a legitimate finance blog.
9. Verify social media availability for brand consistency
Before finalizing your domain name, check the domain name availability on social media platforms. It would be frustrating if you found a great name, but it was unavailable as a Twitter handle.
You want your brand to be consistently represented, so check if your name is available on all the platforms you wish to use. Conduct a domain name search to check availability on all platforms.
For instance, if “[GreenLivingTips].com” is available as a blog domain, but @GreenLivingTips is taken on Instagram and Twitter, you might want to consider a variation.
10. Conduct a trademark check to avoid legal issues
Ensure your chosen domain name isn’t trademarked by another business. A trademark conflict could result in legal trouble and force you to change your domain later. Use official trademark search databases to verify availability.
For example, you wouldn’t want to register “[AppleTechSolutions].com” because “Apple” is a well known trademark.
11. Use domain name generators for inspiration
If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, domain name generators can help. Use Bluehost’s domain name generator to suggest creative domain name ideas based on keywords and industry.
For example, if you’re looking for a fitness blog name, a generator might suggest “[FitVibes].com” or “[ActiveEdge].com.”
12. Think long-term: Scalability and future business growth
Choose a domain name that will grow with your business. Avoid names that are too specific or restrictive.
For example, if you start by selling handmade candles but plan to expand to home decor, a broader name like “[CozyLiving].com” is a better choice than “[HandmadeCandlesOnly].com.”
13.Secure your domain before it’s gone
Good domain names get snapped up quickly. Therefore, if you find your desired domain name, register it as soon as possible to prevent someone else from taking it.
For instance, many businesses regret not buying their ideal domain early, only to find out later that someone else owns it.
Pro tip: Buy it for maximum tenure to avoid inflation and higher renewal rates. Bluehost offers domains for multiple tenures (up to 5 years).
14. Purchase multiple domain names
Consider buying variations of your domain name, including common misspellings or different extensions. This prevents competitors from using similar domains and helps protect your brand.
For example, if you own “[HealthyMeals].com,” securing “[HealthyMeals].net” and “[Healthy-Meal].com” can prevent confusion.
A (pro) tip: Use the other domain names to redirect visitors to your website. This will ensure visitors always land on your website even if they misspell your domain name.
15. Buy premium domain names if necessary
If your ideal domain name is taken, you might have the option to purchase it as a premium domain. While they can be costly, premium domains are often short, memorable and valuable for branding.
For instance, “[CarInsurance].com” was sold for millions of dollars because of its high branding value.
16. Register your domain with the right company
You can register domain names through domain registrars or domain registration websites that also host your website. Bluehost does the latter. We are responsible for checking name availability and maintaining records on registered domains.
All domain name registrars must be accredited by Top Level Domain registries, which are, in turn, accredited by ICANN.
Registrars manage the databases of domain names in use. If you don’t currently have domain web hosting or you’re reserving your ideal domain name or names for later use, registrars can “park” your domain name temporarily until you’re ready to launch your site.
If you’ve already set up an account with Bluehost, you can complete the entire name search and registration process on our site.
Also read: Your Guide to Finding the Best Domain Registrar
What to do if your desired domain is taken?
If your ideal domain name is already registered, don’t worry—there are still ways to secure a great domain:
- Try a slight variation – If “[BestCakes].com” is taken, you might try “[BestCakesOnline].com” or “[TastyBestCakes].com.”
- Use another domain extension – If the “.com” version isn’t available, you can check options like “.net,” “.co,” or industry specific extensions like “.shop” or “.blog.”
- Contact the current owner – If the domain isn’t active, you can check the domain’s WHOIS records to contact the owner and negotiate a purchase.
- Use domain name generator – These tools suggest creative alternatives that are still available.
- Consider a premium domain – Some domains are available for resale at a higher price. If the name is essential for your brand, it may be worth the investment.
Final thoughts
You may be wondering how to choose a good domain name for your business with over a million names already registered. However, with the right approach, you can still secure a strong, brandable domain that fits your business. The trick is to keep it simple, unique and easy to spell. Also, don’t hesitate to explore alternative extensions or creative variations if your first choice is unavailable.
The best part? You don’t have to do it alone. Use our Bluehost domain finder and select the perfect website name to start your online journey! Plus, when you sign up for a web hosting plan, you get a free domain name for the first year!
So don’t wait; secure your perfect domain today with Bluehost and take the first step towards building your online success.
FAQs
.com is the most popular and trusted, but other extensions like .net, .org, .shop or .tech can work depending on your website’s purpose.
Yes, if the domain is short, brandable and valuable for your business, it can be a great investment.
No, using a trademarked name can lead to legal issues. Always check before registering.
Standard domains typically cost $10–$20 per year, while premium domains can be more expensive.
Ideally, you should use one to three words to keep it short, easy to remember and brandable.
2 Comments
That’s a Good read and I was preferring .com though now its a huge opportunity with new TLDs.
Nice article, given that there are so many TLDs that have opened up it gives you an opportunity to pick some of the names you might have missed in .com TLD. We keep a watch on all the new TLDs and grab the opportunity to pick up the domains that we want.
Thanks for sharing the article.