Registering a domain name is an essential step that requires careful consideration. Whether you’re setting up a personal website or a business, the right domain name can determine your online success. When selecting a domain name, keep these five tips in mind.
Tip #1: Avoid Registering a .net or .org if .com is Already Taken
If someone else has already registered the .com version of the domain name you’re interested in, it’s best to avoid using a .net or .org extension. This is because users are more likely to type “.com” by default when they search for a domain, which means your traffic could end up on another website. Additionally, if the .com version of your domain has a catch-all email account, you could be vulnerable to email interception. It’s a good idea to check whether the .com version has a catch-all email setup by sending a test email to a random address (e.g., name5583343@their-domain.com). If the email doesn’t bounce back, the owner of the .com domain may be intercepting emails.
If you do end up registering a .net or .org domain while the .com is already taken, it’s essential to consider the potential legal risks. If the .com owner believes your domain infringes on their trademark, you may face complications. Always try to register the .com version first to avoid issues. For more information on domain name registrations, visit Nominet, the UK’s official domain name registry, or check out ICANN, the global authority for domain names.
Tip #2: Register Misspelled Versions of Your Domain Name
If your domain name could be easily misspelled, make sure to register the common misspellings as well. For example, if your domain is “promoteone.com,” consider registering “promote1.com” to capture any potential traffic from people who mistype the name. This simple strategy can help prevent lost sales and direct more traffic to your website. Likewise, consider variations of your domain name that might be phonetically confusing, such as “4health.com” and “forhealth.com,” or even “fourhealth.com.”
Don’t forget to consider international spelling differences. For example, Canadians spell “colour” instead of “color.” If your domain is “colorconcepts.com,” consider registering “colourconcepts.com” to avoid losing potential Canadian customers. For global reach, registering your domain name in multiple languages could also help, especially if you plan to do business in countries where different languages or dialects are spoken. Learn more about domain name options through GoDaddy.
Tip #3: Protect Yourself by Registering Other Versions of Your Domain
It’s important to protect your domain name from cyber squatters who may register alternative versions of your domain with different extensions, such as .net or .org, in the hope of selling them back to you. If you believe your domain name could become popular, consider registering these variations. For example, a bank president once found that someone had registered the .net version of their domain and was attempting to sell it back for a high price. After some legal challenges and arbitration, the bank was able to reclaim the domain. Protecting your domain by registering additional extensions shows your commitment to safeguarding your brand. For domain registration services, consider exploring 123 Reg, which offers a range of domain management tools.
Tip #4: Keep Your Domain Name Short and Memorable
When choosing a domain name, aim for something short and easy to remember. Avoid long acronyms that may be hard to recall or spell. For instance, Hotel Del Coronado made the mistake of not registering the domain “hoteldelcoronado.com,” despite the fact that it was commonly known by locals. If you find that the domain name you want is too long, consider using creative variations, such as adding “online” to the end of the domain. This can make your name more distinctive and easier to type.
Tip #5: Use Hyphens for Multi-Word Domains
If your domain name consists of multiple words, consider separating them with hyphens. This makes it easier for search engines to recognise individual words, improving your domain’s search ranking. For example, “online-stock-quotes.com” is more SEO-friendly than “onlinestockquotes.com.” By separating the words, search engines can index your domain name more effectively, which can help boost your website’s visibility. However, make sure to balance readability and SEO, as overusing hyphens can make your domain name look spammy.
By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to select a domain name that supports your brand and protects your online presence. Remember, your domain is an investment—take the time to choose wisely.