Your domain name is the first thing a customer types, hears or reads on a van. A good one is easy to say, spell and remember. Use this guide to choose one before you buy.
What makes a good domain name
- Short and clear. Fewer characters mean fewer typing mistakes.
- Easy to say out loud. If you have to spell it every time you read it to someone, it will cost you customers.
- Easy to spell. Avoid unusual spellings, numbers and hyphens that people will forget.
- Matches your business name where possible, so people can guess it.
- Not locked to one service or place unless you never plan to change. A name like
smithdecksaustin.combecomes awkward if you expand.
Pick the right ending
- **
.com** is what most people type by default. If it is available and fits, it is usually the safest choice. - Other endings (
.co,.net, or newer ones) are fine when the.comis taken, but make sure customers will not mistype them as.com. - Country or industry endings can work, but check that your customers recognize and trust them.
Check before you commit
- Search the name on a registrar to see if it is available.
- Search the name in a web search to make sure it is not already a business in your field.
- Check social handles if you plan to use the same name there.
- Say it aloud on a phone call with a friend. If they cannot write it down correctly, choose a different one.
- Check trademarks. Do not use a name that is the same as or very close to a business in your industry. This is a legal question, so ask a professional if you are unsure.
What to avoid
- Hyphens and doubled letters.
- Numbers that could be written as words (
4orfor). - Names that are one letter off a famous brand.
- Very long names with keywords packed in.
Next step
Once you have chosen a name, follow our guide to buying a domain name.