Check availability across registrars, trying variations like shortening words or adjusting extensions if your ideal .com is taken. Once an available domain aligning with your niche is found, officially register it for ~$10/year. For simplicity, use the same provider for domain registration and hosting services. This automatically configures DNS settings to direct your custom URL to stored site files. A domain name reinforcing your niche primes user discovery and engagement, so do diligent niche research and keyword selection when buying one.
A domain name serves as the address that web users type in to access your website. Choosing the right domain is key not only for branding but also for search engine optimization. The domain name you select can influence how easily people discover your site.
Follow this guide when purchasing a new domain name to give your website the best chance at online success from the start.
Determine Your Niche and Ideal Keywords
The first step is deciding the main topic and keywords that will describe your site. Before you can settle on domain options, you need to know what content or offerings visitors can expect.
Do some brainstorming around the niche, products, services, or information your business will focus on. Also research relevant search terms and keywords that your target audience may use when looking for sites like yours.
For instance, if starting an online store selling golf equipment and accessories, “golf supplies” may be a good niche descriptor. Related keywords could include “discount golf items,” “used golf clubs for sale,” or “golf gear deals.”
Search Domain Name Availability
Armed with keywords that characterize your website niche, you can start generating domain name ideas. Aim for names that are:
● Short, simple, and easy to remember
● Descriptive of the site topic and content
● Include your most important keywords or phrases
Check domain availability using a registrar like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Google Domains. Start by testing availability of a .com domain that matches your keywords exactly. If taken, try variations by:
● Shortening words i.e. GolfShopDeals.com
● Using hyphens i.e. Golf-ShopDeals.com
● Choosing another extension like .net or .org
● Adding extra keywords like DiscountGolfShopDeals.com
A domain name search tool can automate suggestions based on keywords. ButDomains, LeanDomainSearch, and Domainhole are all good options. Avoid obscure top-level domain extensions like .info or .site if possible.
Purchase Your New Domain
Once you’ve selected an available domain that aligns with your niche, it’s time to officially buy it. Expect costs between $8-$15 per year from most registrars. Many offer free private registration services to protect your contact information from public view.
For new sites I recommend using the same company for both domain registration and web hosting services. This simplifies managing DNS settings and other domain-related administration down the road.
Popular picks for value web hosting and domains include:
● Bluehost
● HostGator
● SiteGround
● A2 Hosting
Point Your Domain to a Web Host
After purchasing a domain, access the DNS settings to change the name servers to those provided by your web host. This points your domain to their servers and allows your site files stored there to load when visitors type in your custom URL.
If registering the domain through the same company hosting your website, the appropriate DNS information is automatically configured behind the scenes. For example, buying a domain on Bluehost would have the name servers pre-populated to Bluehost’s.
But if you purchased the domain elsewhere, manual update is required or outsourced web content won’t load. Most registrars offer free DNS management tools to simplify changing IPs.
A Well-Chosen Domain Sets the Stage for Success
Selecting the right domain name is important groundwork when creating an effective online presence. A memorable and keyword-rich domain makes it easier for your audience to discover while lending credibility around understanding their needs.
Do your homework when researching niches and buying a domain to give your website the best possible start. Follow the tips above and you’ll have a custom URL that fuels user engagement and promotes growth for years to come.
If you want to host your domain, I would recommend host gate at:
www.HostGate.org
I bumped into your blog and found it very interesting and informative. Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteLeah, you're always welcome.
ReplyDelete