What Is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the web address people use to visit your website (e.g., reallygreatsite.com). It's your site's online identity and makes your content easy to find and share. Without a domain name, users would have to remember a string of numbers (an IP address) to reach your site.
Step 1: Use a Domain Name Search Tool
Start by using a domain name search tool to check if your desired name is available. Most web hosting sites will have a free domain name search tool. It’s best to keep your domain name short, memorable, and easy to spell helps people find and return to your site more easily. It also reduces the chances of someone mistyping or forgetting it.
Step 2: Choose a Registrar or Hosting Provider
You can buy a domain name from a separate registrar or register it directly through your web hosting provider. Going through your host can be more convenient, since your domain and hosting will be managed under the same account, and many hosts offer a free domain for the first year.
Step 3: Register the Domain
Once you've chosen a name and a provider, you’ll pay a yearly fee (usually $10–20). Make sure you have access to DNS settings. DNS (Domain Name System) functions like the internet's phone book by connecting your domain name to your hosting server.
Step 4: Connect the Domain to Your Hosting
If you purchased the domain and hosting from the same provider, your domain will likely connect automatically. If they were bought separately, you’ll need to update the domain’s nameservers — the part of the Domain Name System (DNS) that tells browsers which web server to load your site from. Most web hosting services offer helpful guides or customer support to walk you through this process.
Step 5: Verify and Test
Once connected, it can take a few hours for your domain to become active. This is called propagation. You’ll know it’s ready when typing your domain into a browser brings up your website.
Extras to Consider
- Add WHOIS privacy to hide your personal contact info (such as your name, address, email, and phone number) from public records.
- Enable auto-renew to avoid losing your domain by accident.
- Bundling domain and hosting can streamline your setup and support.
Buying a domain name and connecting it to your hosting plan is a key step in launching your site. With most web hosting services, the process is beginner-friendly and well-documented.
Explore top-rated website hosting services with domain options here →
