How To Register a Domain Name

Key takeaways:  

• A domain name matters because it adds credibility to your web presence and protects your brand by ensuring no one else can use that name. 
• After buying your domain name, there are further steps to take to make it really work for you, such as connecting it to your website. 
• As your business grows, tools like email, website builders, and marketing services can help expand your reach. 

Building a brand for your online business?    

A domain name is where you begin. But if you’re like many people, choosing the right domain name might sound tricky, and the process feel overwhelming.

However, the surprising thing is that you don’t have to research a lot just to register a domain name. The process is straightforward, depending on the registrar you choose.  

Many users on Trustpilot say they registered or transferred their domain with Network Solutions in just minutes, praising the quick process and helpful support. 

That’s why, in this guide, we’ll walk your through the five simple steps to getting your domain name ready to use.   

Ready to know how? Let’s get right into it!

What is a domain name? 

A domain name is a unique address on the internet, like “yourwebsite.com.” It directs people to a website when typed into a browser and allows you to build a site for people to land on. Registering a domain name gives you ownership of an internet address as long as you keep renewing it.  

A domain name matters because it adds credibility to your web presence and protects your brand by ensuring no one else can use that name. Having a domain name is a key step in establishing yourself or your business online. 

Note: Process may vary per provider. 

5 steps to register a domain name 

Registering a domain name is the first step in establishing your online presence. With a few simple steps, you can obtain your web address and build your online identity. 

Read on for details.  

1. Choose a domain registrar 

A domain registrar is a service provider that is authorized to register domain names on your behalf. Examples of these are Network Solutions, Cloudflare, GoDaddy, etc.  

These companies are approved by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). ICANN manages the Domain Name System (DNS), which helps people find websites on the internet. They make sure your domain name is reserved so others can access your website online.   

Not all registrars are created equal. Some focus on low prices with free domain names, while others focus on bundled services. Your choice will impact how much you pay as well as how easy it is to manage your domain.  

Here’s what to consider when selecting a domain registrar: 

ICANN accreditation 

Always choose a registrar accredited by ICANN. This confirms the registrar follows recognized standards, offers legal protections, and maintains accountability. You can check if a registrar is accredited by visiting ICANN’s official list of accredited registrars. 

Ease of use and setup 

If you’re new to websites, consider how simple the registrar makes it to connect your domain to a site. Platforms like Network Solutions, Shopify, and Squarespace let you buy a domain and build your website all in one place.  

If you plan to use a separate host like Bluehost or HostGator, make sure the registrar provides clear instructions for pointing your domain to your hosting provider. 

Customer support 

Look for registrars that offer 24/7 customer service through phone, email, or live chat. Issues like domain expiration, DNS errors, or ownership transfer can crop up unexpectedly, having expert help on hand makes a big difference. 

Privacy protection (WHOIS) 

When you register a domain, your contact details like name, phone number, and email are listed in the public WHOIS database. This makes you a target for spam, scams, and identity theft.  

Many registrars offer WHOIS privacy protection, which hides your personal data. Some companies offer this for free (like Network Solutions, Namecheap, Cloudflare, and Shopify), while others charge extra (like Bluehost or HostGator). Be sure to factor this into your overall cost. 

Transparent pricing and renewal rates 

Domain registration is usually charged annually, with promotional first-year prices that increase on renewal. Always check: 

• Initial price vs. renewal price 
• Cost of add-ons like WHOIS privacy or SSL 
• Transfer fees if you switch registrars in the future 

A $0.99 domain might be renewed at $20+ after the first year, so read the fine print. 

Domain extension availability 

Most registrars offer common extensions like .com, .net, or .org, but if you want a niche domain like .tech, .shop, or .art, or ones specified for countries like .us, .ca, or .fr, make sure your registrar supports it. Some registrars also charge premium rates for specialty TLDs, so compare your options. 

Extra services and bundles 

Some registrars go beyond domain registration and offer tools like: 

• Website builders 
• Email hosting 
• SSL certificates 
• Ecommerce hosting 

Bundles can save money but always check that you’re not locked into unnecessary services. For example, a registrar may offer a free domain only if you commit to a premium hosting plan. 

Security features 

Look for registrars that take domain security seriously. Important protections include: 

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) 
• Domain lock to prevent unauthorized transfers 
• DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) 
• DDoS protection 

Cyberattacks like domain hijacking, DNS spoofing, and typo squatting are real threats—make sure your registrar has systems in place to protect you. Don’t overlook security features since the average cost of a data breach worldwide from 2014 to 2024 is approximately 4.45 million US dollars. 

Reputation and trustworthiness 

A domain is a long-term investment, so choose a registrar with a proven track record. 

Look at: 

• Online reviews 
• Transparency in pricing and terms 
• Industry reputation 

Avoid registrars with frequent complaints about domain locking, surprise fees, or poor customer service. 

2. Pick a domain name 

Once you’ve chosen a domain registrar, the next step is to decide on the name you’d like to use. 

Although you can register a new name later, it’s more cost-effective to get it right the first time. You can look for articles that share domain name suggestions to get started. But for a more streamlined approach, you can use our AI Domain Name Generator to help you brainstorm name ideas. 

Just enter or describe what your business is all about, and the AI will then present options that are truly suited to your business. 

Grab a paper and list down at least 5–10 of your ideal domain names. This way, you avoid frustration if your top choice is taken. Having backup options ensures you don’t end up settling for a name you don’t love just to get online. 

Also, be sure to consider these best practices to help your domain name stand out: 

• Keep names short (ideally under 20 characters) 
• Use simple, easy-to-spell words 
• Choose a name that reflects your brand 
• Avoid generic or keyword-stuffed names 
• Don’t use numbers or hyphens 
• Check for trademark conflicts before registering 
• Choose a name that can grow with your business 
• Avoid trendy or overly specific terms 
• Use a trusted domain extension (e.g., .com, .org, .net) 
• Consider country-specific or niche TLDs if relevant 
• Check the quality of sites using your desired extension 

Understanding TLDs: Choose the right domain extension 

The top-level domain (TLD) is the part of your domain that comes after the dot—for example, .com, .net, or .org. It plays an important role in how people perceive and trust your website. 

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a TLD: 

• .com is the most recognized and trusted by users worldwide. It’s ideal for most businesses and startups. 
• .org is often used by nonprofits or organizations, though it’s available to anyone. 
• .net can be a good fallback if your .com is taken, especially for tech or network-based businesses. 
• Country-specific TLDs (like .ca, .uk, .au) are great if your business serves a local or regional audience. 
• Niche or branded TLDs like .tech, .shop, .design, or .art can help signal what your business is about. These can work well for industry-specific brands. 

Important tip: Always check the existing site if your preferred domain extension is already in use by someone else. If it’s associated with low-quality content or unrelated industries, it may hurt your brand to use a similar domain—even with a different TLD.  
 
Some TLDs can also be more expensive or restricted. For instance, .tech often costs more, and certain TLDs like .gov or .realtor require special credentials. 

3. Check for domain name availability 

Once you’ve chosen a few potential domain names, the next important step is to check whether they’re actually available. This process is quick, straightforward, and something you can do using various online tools, even before you commit to a domain registrar. 

How domain availability checks work 

Most domain registrars and web hosting platforms include a built-in domain search tool. When you enter your desired domain name, the system looks it up in global databases like WHOIS or RDAP—these are public directories that store records of all registered domain names. If the name is already taken, the system will let you know immediately and often suggest similar alternatives. 

Trusted tools to check domain availability 

You can use any of the following popular and reliable platforms to search for available domains: 

• Network Solutions 
• Squarespace Domains (formerly Google Domains) 
• GoDaddy 
• IONOS 
• Bluehost   
• Namecheap 
• HostGator 

These tools all access the same domain databases, so if a domain is marked as unavailable on one platform, it will be unavailable on all of them. Each provider may offer slightly different suggestions, pricing, or bundled services like hosting or email. 

What to do if your domain is taken 

If your preferred domain is already registered, don’t worry — it’s a common hurdle, and you have options. 

1. Explore suggested alternatives. Most platforms will automatically show you similar available domains, including those with different extensions (like .net, .co, or .biz) or slight variations of your original name. This can help you quickly spot a version that still fits your brand. 
2. Consider domain brokering. In some cases, the platform may notify you that the domain is taken but available for negotiation. This is called domain brokering. It means the current owner might be willing to sell, and the registrar offers to handle the negotiation for you. 

• You might be able to secure your exact match domain name. 
• Brokering services often involve extra fees, and the domain price can be significantly higher—sometimes hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Plus, there’s no guarantee the owner will agree to sell. 

If your chosen domain name is critical to your brand and you have the budget, domain brokering might be worth exploring. But if you’re starting out or keeping costs low, it’s often better to tweak your name slightly or try a different TLD. 

Budget-friendly tip 

Instead of overpaying for a taken domain, try creative alternatives. You can: 

• Add a word before or after your brand name (e.g., GetYourBrand.com, YourBrandOnline.com) 
• Use a relevant niche extension like .shop, .design, or .studio 
• Use abbreviations or acronyms, as long as they’re easy to remember 

This approach helps you go live faster with a name that still fits your identity. 

4. Buy the domain name 

Once you’ve found an available domain that fits your brand, it’s time to register it. Even though people often say you’re “buying” a domain, you’re actually just licensing the right to use it for a certain period—typically one to ten years. You don’t own the domain permanently unless you renew it regularly. 

Every registrar handles the process slightly differently, but the core steps are generally the same. 

Here’s how to walk through the buying or registration process: 

1. Search for your domain. Use the search tool provided by your chosen domain registrar to check the availability of your domain name. If it’s available, you’ll have the option to proceed. If not, you can browse alternative suggestions or use one of your backup names. 
2. Add your domain to the cart. Once you’ve found an available name, click to add it to your cart or reserve it. Some platforms allow you to select multiple domains at once — useful if you want to secure similar names or different extensions (like .com, .net, .co, etc.). 
3. Choose your registration term. You’ll be asked how many years you want to register the domain for. Most registrars offer terms from 1 to 10 years. Some even offer discounts for multi-year purchases. If you’re serious about your business, consider registering for multiple years to avoid expiration surprises. 
4. Review add-ons. Many registrars will offer additional services during checkout. These may include: WHOIS privacy protection (hides your contact details from public databases), Email forwarding or custom email setup, Website builders or hosting packages, SSL certificates (for secure HTTPS browsing). These add-ons are optional, so review them carefully. You can skip what you don’t need and add them later if necessary.
5. Enter your contact information. ICANN requires domain registrants to provide accurate contact details, including your name, address, and email. Unless you purchase privacy protection, this information is visible in the public WHOIS database. 
6. Complete payment and finalize registration. Enter your billing details and review your total order before checking out. After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email and often a request to verify your email address. Make sure to complete this step to activate your domain. 
7. Enable auto-renewal (optional but recommended). Domains can expire if you forget to renew them. Enabling auto-renewal ensures your domain stays active without interruption, especially if it’s critical to your business. 

Other important tips 

• Activation time: After purchasing, it may take up to 48 hours for your domain to become fully active across the internet, though it’s usually much quicker. 
• Free domains with hosting: Some platforms (like Network Solutions, Shopify, Squarespace, or Bluehost) offer a free domain for the first year when you purchase a hosting plan. This can be a good deal if you’re also building a website. 
• Subdomains vs. full domains: If you’re not ready to purchase a domain, some website builders offer a free subdomain (like yourname.shopify.com). This is okay for testing or personal projects but not ideal for a professional business. 
• Domain prices vary: Prices differ depending on the domain extension, popularity, or registrar. For example, niche TLDs like .tech or .design may cost more than a standard .com. 

Take time to review all details before completing your purchase and always make sure your contact info is accurate, and your domain is set to auto-renew (if applicable). 

5. Review domain name contract 

Before finalizing your domain purchase, take a moment to review the registrar’s terms. Registering a domain means entering a legal agreement, so it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. 

This contract outlines how your domain will be managed, what you’re paying for, and what happens if something changes down the line. Reading it carefully helps you avoid unexpected fees or restrictions. 
 
Here’s what to check: 

• Ownership and access. Make sure your business is listed as the domain owner. You should have full control, not a third-party developer or agency. 
• Renewal terms and pricing. Check how often your domain renews and whether the price goes up after the first year. Many registrars offer a lower rate for the first term only. 
• Extra fees. Look for charges related to services like privacy protection, domain recovery, or email forwarding. Know what’s included and what’s optional. 
• Transfer options. A good registrar lets you transfer your domain to another provider. Review any waiting periods, restrictions, or transfer fees. 
• Billing and cancellation. Understand what happens if your payment fails or you forget to renew. Some registrars offer a short grace period, while others may cancel or resell your domain right away. 

In short: Make sure the contract gives you control, fair terms, and the freedom to make changes later if needed. 

How to register a domain name with us at Network Solutions 

Network Solutions is one of the oldest and most established domain registrars, offering services to help you establish your online presence. 

Here are specific steps when you’re registering your domain with us:  

Step 1: Visit the Network Solutions website 

Go to NetworkSolutions.com. You’ll find a search bar where you can check the availability of your desired domain name.  

Step 2: Search for your desired domain name 

Enter the domain name you wish to register into the search bar and click SEARCH. The system will check if the domain is available:  

• If available: You’ll see a message confirming its availability, and it will automatically be added to your cart. Click CONTINUE. 
• If unavailable: The system will suggest alternative domain names or extensions that are available.  
• Note: Domain Privacy + Protection is automatically added to your cart for your security. You can remove it if you wish, but we strongly recommend keeping it to protect your personal information and reduce spam.

Step 3: Select a domain package

Network Solutions offers three domain packages: Domain Only, Domain and Essential Hosting, and Domain Premium Hosting. Select which package works for you by just hitting the CONTINUE button. Once done, click CONTINUE TO ADD ONS to proceed on the next step.

Step 4: Choose additional services (optional) 

Network Solutions offers several add-on services to enhance your domain registration:  

• Private registration: Keeps your personal information hidden from public WHOIS databases.  
• Web hosting: Provides space to build and host your website.  
• Email services: Sets up professional email addresses using your domain.  
• SSL certificates: Secures your website with HTTPS encryption.  

Click ADD TO CART to select any additional services you require. If you’re good to CLICK CONTINUE TO CART. 

Step 5: Review your cart and proceed to checkout 

Review all your details, including the final domain price and the tools you’ve selected. If everything is correct, click CONTINUE TO CHECKOUT.   

Step 6: Enter payment information 

Provide your billing details and choose your preferred payment method, and then click SUBMIT PAYMENT to finalize your domain registration. Network Solutions accepts various payment options, including credit/debit cards.  

Step 7: Manage your domain 

Once done, you can log into your Network Solutions account to manage your domain settings, including DNS configurations, email setups, and website building tools. 

What to do after getting a domain name? 

To activate your domain name, you’ll have to connect it to your website. If you bought it through Network Solutions, this happens automatically. But if you registered it separately, you’ll need to update the DNS settings in your domain registrar’s dashboard to point the domain to your website. 

If you want to use your domain for email, you’ll also need to set up email routing. This usually involves updating a few settings, but most email providers like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 make it easy to follow. 

Once your domain is set up, you can start using it across your business materials to keep your brand consistent and professional, and even add it to:

• Your email signature 
• Business cards 
• Social media profiles 
• Google Business Profile 

By including your domain name across such offline and online touch points, you create a professional brand presence that can boost your internet visibility, trust, and business growth. 

As your business grows, you’ll want to reach more people and stay competitive. We can help you reach more customers faster with digital marketing, it supports your growth by making your business easier to find online and more appealing to customers. 

Finally, take a few steps to keep your domain secure and active: 

• Turn on auto-renewal 
• Enable domain privacy 
• Set up email forwarding if needed 
• Review any optional security features like SiteLock 

These small actions go a long way in keeping your domain protected and your online presence running smoothly. 

Common domain registration mistakes to avoid  

To make the most of your domain, here are the most common mistakes you need to avoid in the domain registration process: 

• Choosing a complicated name. Avoid hard-to-spell or long domain names. They’re tough to remember and prone to errors. Stick with simple and clear names for better user experience.  
• Ignoring renewal. Set up auto-renewal or keep a close watch on your domain’s expiration date—losing it can hurt your business and create unnecessary stress. Auto-renewal helps keep your domain active, but adding Domain Expiration Protection (DEP) with Network Solutions provides even more security. If auto-renewal fails due to a payment issue, like an expired credit card, DEP will ensure your domain is renewed, so you never have to worry about losing it unexpectedly.  
• Skipping keyword research. Domains with relevant keywords can help users understand what your site is about. While it’s not the only factor for SEO, a clear, descriptive name tied to your niche can still give your brand a boost.  
• Not checking for trademarks. Before registering a domain, ensure it doesn’t conflict with existing trademarks. Using a trademarked name could lead to legal issues, and you may be forced to relinquish the domain. 

Register your domain name with Network Solutions 

Securing your domain name is a big step toward building a professional, trustworthy online presence. Whether you’re launching a new idea, building a business, or rebranding, having the right domain sets the foundation for everything that comes next. 

With Network Solutions, the process is quick and user-friendly—making it easy to get started without the hassle. Plus, as your needs grow, you’ll have access to tools like email, website builders, and online marketing services to support your next steps. 

Take the first step—register your domain with Network Solutions and start building your presence today. 

Frequently asked questions