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Custom domains are unique web addresses that you can purchase and use for your website or online business. For entrepreneurs, small business owners and startups, establishing credibility and setting the tone for your brand often begins here. They typically end in familiar domain extensions like .com, .net or .org and allow you to create a memorable brand identity that stands out from the rest.
Choosing the right custom domain is an important decision when creating a website, as it will represent your brand on the internet. But what exactly is a custom domain, and why does it matter? This guide dives into the essentials, from what custom domains are, to selecting the perfect one for your brand.
New to domain names? Get started with what is a domain and our top level domain list.
What is a custom domain?
A custom domain is your personalized web address (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com) that represents your brand and makes it easy for customers to find you online. It’s professional, unique and memorable. On the other hand, an account domain is typically a free, generic web address, often provided by a website builder platform, that includes their name, such as www.yourbusiness.platformname.com.
While an account domain works for getting started, a custom domain helps establish credibility and puts your brand front and center, giving your business a more polished and professional image. It also allows you to create a consistent online presence across all your platforms and marketing materials.
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Custom domain example
To help clarify what makes a domain custom, consider these examples. A generic domain provided by the Wix hosting service might look like this: www.examplebiz.wix.com. While functional, it doesn’t tell your visitors much about who you are and makes your business easy to overlook.
Now, compare that to www.examplebiz.com. This version is clean and concise. It’s also easier for potential customers to remember. Custom domains ensure your business name is front and center, helping people instantly associate your web presence with your brand. When you build your Wix site, getting started with a custom domain on a paid Wix plan is simple and seamless.
The benefits of using a custom domain
Besides giving your brand a professional image, custom domains have several other benefits:
Increased credibility
A custom domain can help build trust and credibility with customers. It shows that you are serious about your business and invested in its online presence.
Better search engine optimization (SEO)
Custom domains can help your website rank higher in search engines because they are unique and relevant to your brand. They also make it easier for potential customers to find you when searching for your specific products or services.
Brand recognition
A consistent domain name helps establish your brand identity across all platforms. It allows customers to easily recognize and remember your website, making it easier for them to come back or refer others.
Enables branded emails
Learn how to create a business email to establish a strong brand presence with customized business email addresses like support@yourbusiness.com. Using professional formats not only improves communication but also allows you to explore creative email name ideas that reflect your company’s values and structure.
Tips for choosing the right custom domain name for your brand
Getting the right domain name isn’t just about availability; it’s an opportunity to establish how people perceive your brand. Here are some actionable tips for choosing a domain name to help you make the right choice.
Keep it simple
Choose a domain name that is easy to spell, pronounce and remember. Avoid using numbers, hyphens or special characters as they can be confusing and difficult to type correctly.
Make it relevant
Your domain should reflect your brand and what you do. It should give customers an idea of what to expect when they visit your website.
Consider using keywords
Including relevant keywords in your domain can help with SEO and attract the right audience to your site. However, it’s essential to balance this with keeping your domain simple and memorable.
Avoid trademark infringement
Before choosing a domain name, research existing trademarks to ensure you are not infringing on someone else's brand or copyright. This could lead to legal consequences and damage your business's reputation. Learn how to trademark a domain name to avoid any issues.
Use a reputable registrar
When purchasing a custom domain, make sure to use a reputable registrar that offers reliable customer support and security measures for protecting your website.
Choose the right extension
While .com is a widely recognized extension, there are other options like .info, .org, .co, .net, .store or even niche options like .coffee (if it’s relevant to your business). Just ensure the extension is appropriate for your industry so customers can immediately connect it with your services.
Secure alternate versions
If your primary domain name is available, consider purchasing alternative spellings, misspellings or variations as well. This ensures visitors are redirected to your business even if they make typos when entering your web address. Use a redirect domain strategy to seamlessly guide users to the correct site.
Use tools to brainstorm
Finding the perfect name can feel overwhelming, but a domain name generator can help spark ideas. Tools like the Wix domain name generator provide creative suggestions based on keywords you input.
How much does a custom domain cost?
A custom domain price typically ranges between $10 and $50 per year, depending on factors like the popularity of your chosen name and the extension (.com versus other options). Premium domains—short or highly coveted names, including some of the most popular domain names—can cost significantly more. With a Wix plan, a custom domain is included, making it easier to get your website up and running.
Learn more: How to buy a domain name and how to register a domain name.
How to get a custom domain in 7 steps
01. Choose a domain name
Start by brainstorming a domain name that is memorable, relevant to your brand and easy to spell. Use online tools like domain name generators to find unique and available ideas.
02. Check domain availability
Perform a domain name search on a domain registrar or hosting platform to see if your desired domain name is available. If it's already taken, consider altering the name slightly or choosing a different extension. Explore various types of domains, such as .com, .org or .net, to find the one that best suits your needs.
Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup.
03. Register your domain
Once you've found an available name, register it through a trusted domain registrar. Pay attention to the registration terms and consider securing the domain for multiple years.
04. Select a hosting plan
Choose a hosting website that fits your website's needs, such as speed, storage and scalability. Many providers also offer bundled deals with domain registration.
05. Connect domain to your website
Set up your domain to point to your website by updating your DNS (Domain Name System) settings. Your hosting provider should guide you through the technical process.
06. Design and publish your site
Use a website builder or hire a developer to design a user-friendly and visually appealing site. Once completed, publish your site and start driving traffic.
07. Maintain and renew
Regularly update your website content and monitor its performance. Renew your domain registration on time to avoid losing ownership of it.
Looking for the perfect domain name? We’ve selected some of the best domain registrars to help you secure your custom name quickly and easily.
What are custom domains FAQ
Can I change my domain name later?
Yes, it’s possible to update or change your domain, but it’s important to understand the potential consequences. Changing your domain can impact your customer recognition and web traffic. To minimize disruptions, make sure to plan carefully, update all links and inform your audience ahead of time.