How to Register a Domain Name

A domain name is an important part of your website's online presence. It aids your potential customers in finding and remembering you easily online, helps in your Search Engine Optimization (SEO) efforts, and helps establish your online identity.

You can learn more about how to register a new domain from your Bluehost admin panel using the outlines below. If you are not a Bluehost customer, you can search and register a new domain quickly and easily.

• What Is a Domain Name
• How to Log In and Register a Domain Name Within Bluehost
• How to Verify a Registered Domain
• Advanced Tips for Choosing a Domain
• Additional Information for Registrants
• Summary

What Is a Domain Name

The Internet is a network of computers that communicate using TCP/IP. Each computer is assigned a unique numerical IP address, making it hard to remember for humans. This is where domain names come in: They provide a user-friendly and memorable representation of an IP address. When someone types a domain name like Bluehost.com, the browser communicates with a root domain nameservers to obtain the IP address.

How to Log In and Register a Domain Name within Bluehost

1. Log in to your Bluehost Account Manager.
2. There are several ways to register a domain name.
   • Account Manager
   • Bluehost Domains (front-of-site)

   Account Manager

   • Home tab
   • Domains tab
   • Marketplace

   Home tab

   In the Domain search section of your Home tab, enter a domain name and click Search.

   

    

   Domains tab

   1. Click Domains on the left-side navigation menu.
   2. On the right pane, you can click on the BUY MORE DOMAIN NAMES button in the top-right corner.

      

      You can also click on Add a Domain under the Domains menu.

      

   3. Click Buy a domain.

      

   4. You will be redirected to the front-of-site, where you can search for the domain you want to register.

      

    

   Marketplace

   1. Click MARKETPLACE on the left-side navigation menu.

      

   2. On the right pane, you can do any of the following:
      • Enter the domain you want to register in the search box and click on SEARCH.
        
      • You also have the option to click the CLAIM OFFER button under the Domain Name Search card.
        
   3. You will be redirected to the front-of-site, where you can search for the domain you want to register.

      

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   Bluehost Domains (front-of-site)

   1. In your browser, go to https://www.bluehost.com/domains.
   2. Enter your preferred domain and click Continue.

      

3. Regardless of the method you choose, the system will check the domain's availability. If the domain is available, you will be redirected to the Cart page. Click Proceed.

   If the domain is unavailable, the Cart will suggest available domains that are close to or similar to what you're looking for. You can select from these domains by clicking the Add To Cart link.

   Note: We recommend adding Domain Privacy + Protection to protect your personal information online. You can learn more about Domain Privacy + Protection in the What Is Domain Privacy Protection? article.

4. Review your Order Summary. Double-check your domain to ensure its correct spelling. Please note that we cannot edit the domain name once it's registered.
5. Apply payment details and click Submit and Process Payment.
   

How to Verify a Registered Domain

Now that you've registered your domain, it's time to verify it. You will receive a verification email to confirm your domain order. 

You can also check your domain's status under the Domain Overview section of your Account Manager's Domains tab. More information is available in the Domain WHOIS Update and Verification article.

If you're having problems with your registered domain, explore our separate article on troubleshooting a domain that's not working for more information.

Advanced Tips for Choosing a Domain

Selecting the right domain name is a critical decision for your business. It doesn't only involve picking a name that reflects your brand or service but it also involves strategic considerations to ensure long-term success and visibility. Follow our advanced tips below to guide you in making the informed choice.

Understanding different domain extensions

• Variety and purpose. The popular .com and other domain extensions, such as .net, .org, .biz, and industry-specific ones like .tech or .fashion, serve various purposes and audiences. Each extension has its connotations and is suited for different types of websites.


• Geographical extensions. Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) like .uk (United Kingdom) or .ca (Canada) can be beneficial for businesses that target specific geographic regions because they can help a business rank better in that specific country.


• Choosing wisely. Consider your audience and business goals when selecting an extension. A .com is universally recognized, but a more specific TLD might set you apart or better indicate your niche.
   

Impact of domain names on SEO

• Keywords. Including relevant keywords in your domain name can help improve your site's SEO because it makes you more discoverable to potential visitors through search engines. However, the relevance and context matter more than keyword stuffing.


• Brandability vs. keywords. While keywords can help, a unique and memorable brand name often trumps long-term SEO success. Google's algorithms increasingly prioritize brand recognition and user engagement metrics.


• Local SEO. For local businesses, incorporating a city or region name into the domain can enhance local search visibility. Remember to balance this with your business's overall brandability.
   

Branding and legal considerations in selecting a domain name

• Trademark checks. Before settling on a domain, conduct a thorough search to ensure it doesn't infringe on existing trademarks. This can prevent legal issues and the need for costly rebranding.


• Consistency across platforms. Aim for a domain name that matches your business name and social media handles. This consistency is key for brand recognition and can reduce confusion for your customers.


• Memorability and pronunciation. Choose a domain that's easy to remember, spell, and pronounce. Complex or lengthy names may hinder word-of-mouth marketing and lead to lost traffic.
   

Future-proofing your domain name choice

• Scalability. Select a domain name that's flexible enough to grow with your business. Avoid overly specific names that could limit your expansion into new areas or services.


• Defensive registration. Consider registering multiple domain extensions and variations of your domain name to protect your brand from competitors or cybersquatters.


• Renewal strategy. Keep track of your domain's renewal dates to avoid losing it. Setting up auto-renewal with your registrar can safeguard you against accidental expirations.
   

Additional Information for Registrants

• Registrant Educational Information
• Registrants' Benefits and Responsibilities

Summary

In this guide, we've outlined the essential steps and considerations for registering a domain name, which is crucial for establishing a strong online presence. You're provided an understanding of what a domain name is, followed by a detailed walkthrough of registering a domain through Bluehost, with tips for activation. Additionally, you will get tips on choosing the right domain extension, the impact on SEO, and key branding and legal considerations. Our guide also emphasizes the importance of future-proofing your domain choice to ensure scalability and protection. Lastly, it provides you with vital information on your responsibilities and the irreversible nature of domain registration. This makes it a valuable resource for those who are looking to secure their online identity effectively.