Buying a domain is like claiming your spot on the internet. It’s your online address, helping customers find you. But a domain isn’t enough—you also need hosting to build your website. Let’s break it down and show you how to do it right.
Domain vs Hosting
A domain is also called a URL, and is your website’s address—what people type in to find you, like www.bestelectricians.com. Hosting is where your website files live. You need both to make your website work.
Think of it this way:
- The Domain: This is the house number—your website’s address.
- The Hosting: This is the house itself—where your website files “live” (pictures, text, etc.).
Without hosting, there’s no house. Without a domain, nobody can find it.
You buy domains from registrars like Google Domains, Namecheap, or GoDaddy. Pick one, buy your domain, and now you have your website address. The domain and hosting can be with the same company or different companies. Most of our clients purchase their domain with Godaddy or Namecheap and then host with us.
Choosing the Perfect URL
Your domain isn’t just an address—it’s part of your business brand. Here’s how to make it work:
- Keep It Short: Nobody wants to type “joessuperamazingelectriciansandmore.com” on their phone. Stick to something simple and easy to remember..
- Make It Relevant: Use your business name or something that explains what you do.
- Stick with .com: It’s the most trusted option. Other extensions like .info or .biz can seem spammy. And unless you’re running a nonprofit, steer clear of .org.
- Avoid Confusing Words: Hard-to-spell words or tricky names can send people to the wrong site.
Protect Your Brand Like a Pro
Think of your domain like owning a car—you need to have the title in your name.
- Keep Control: Always register your domain under your own account. Some design agencies will offer to “take care of it for you,” but that can spell trouble. If you part ways, they could lock you out.
- Why It Matters: If you lose control, you could lose your website, emails, and even your brand identity.
- How We Help: We’ll guide you through the process and assist with changes, but the domain stays under your control. You own it. Always.
Keeping Your Domain Active – Avoid Your Site Going Down
Buying a domain isn’t a one-time thing. You need to renew it, or your site will go offline.
Here’s how to keep your domain active:
- Buy for Multiple Years: Pay ahead to avoid yearly hassles.
- Set Auto-Renew: Make sure your domain renews automatically. Keep your credit card info updated.
- Watch Your Email: Don’t ignore renewal reminders. You’ll get these from the company where you purchased the domain, NOT Big West.
Final Thoughts: Own It, Protect It, Use It
Buying a domain is your first big step toward building your online presence. Choose a smart, memorable URL, keep it under your control, and make sure it stays active.
When done right, your domain isn’t just an address—it’s the gateway to your business. So, grab your perfect domain before someone else does and make your digital mark!
