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Oct 27, 2024

How to Find Out If A Domain Name Is Available

How to Find Out If A Domain Name Is Available
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Graham Obaroene
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Your domain name is often the first point of contact users have with your brand online. If well-chosen, a domain name can strengthen your brand identity and build credibility. But when you’ve found the perfect one, you have to make sure it’s not already taken before you start hosting your website. It’s pretty straightforward, and we’ll show you how in this quick guide. 

What are domain names?

Imagine the internet as a large country. Every website is a house with a unique address – but they’re only made up of numbers. That’s a website’s IP address, but it’s not very user-friendly. A domain name is a memorable word or phrase that replaces the complex IP. Without them, we’d memorize and recall long strings of numbers just to access websites. 

If you own a website, this can be a powerful branding tool and an opportunity to establish your brand identity. You also get a slight SEO boost when you add relevant keywords to your domain name. A domain name typically consists of two parts.

Second-level domain (SLD)

Also known as the hostname, this is the most recognizable part of the domain name. It’s the “sonary” in “sonary.com.”.

Top-level domain (TLD)

This is the suffix at the very end of the domain name, indicating the category or purpose of the website. It’s the “.com” in “wikipedia.com.”. 

 TLDs act like little labels, clueing visitors as to the nature of the website. Here’s why TLDs are significant.

Categorization

TLDs offer a quick way to categorize websites. Common examples include the following: 

  • .com: Most commonly used for commercial businesses.
  • .org: Used by non-profit organizations 
  • .edu: Used by educational institutions
  • .gov: used by government websites.

Geo-targeting

Some TLDs are specific to countries, like “.uk” for the United Kingdom or “.ru” for Russia. These help users find businesses and information relevant to their target region.

Branding and trust

TLDs can build trust and user expectations based on the established associations of certain TLDs. “.com” conveys a global commercial presence, while “.org” suggests a non-profit focus. There’s a growing number of creative TLDs like “.io” or “.photography.” These are a good fit for niche brands.


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Steps To Check If A Domain Is Available

To check the availability of a domain name, you can follow these steps:  

Step 1: Do a Simple Web Search

This is the most straightforward but least effective approach. This is because web search results display indexed web pages and information. These usually tell you nothing about real-time domain registration status. 

  • Enter the name you want, along with the “.com” or “.net” part, into a web browser. This is a quick way to check to see if a website already exists at that address. You may also get some other suggestions during your search.
  • Do a follow-up check to confirm availability. Not all unused domains have a noticeable web presence.

Step 2: Check Domain Name Registrars

A domain name registrar keeps track of who owns which domain name and lets you register or rent a new one for your website. They also let you check if the domain name is available before you can rent it. 

  • Choose a domain registrar: There are many domain registrars available, each with its features. Popular options include Bluehost and Domain.com. 
  • Visit the registrar’s website: Go to the domain registration section of the registrar’s website. This is usually prominently displayed or accessible through a search bar.
  • Use the domain search tool. You’ll find a search bar designed for domain names. Here, type the desired domain name you want to check for availability.

The process of searching for an available domain

  • Search results: Once you enter your desired domain name, the registrar will perform a quick search. The results will typically indicate:
    • Availability 
    • Alternatives 
    • Pricing
  • Additional features: Some registrars offer additional features during the search, such as:
    • Hosting services:
      Some registrars like to allow web hosting. Think of web hosting as the land and house itself where your website lives.
    • Domain name suggestions:
      Get suggestions for similar-sounding or relevant domain names if yours isn’t available.

Step 3: Visit Web Hosting Providers

Some web hosting providers, such as DreamHost, Bluehost, and GoDaddy, offer domain registration services. They offer them alongside their website hosting. This is a convenient and cost-effective option for users who need both services anyway.

Godaddy domain availability search

How it works

  • Web hosting companies partner with domain name registrars or act as accredited resellers.
  • When you buy a web hosting plan, you’ll be offered the option to register a new domain name or transfer an existing one to their platform.
  • You can then manage both your domain name and website hosting through the web hosting provider’s control panel.

Bundled services like these offer

  • Convenience: Having domain registration and web hosting with the same provider simplifies the process. You only need to manage one account and deal with one customer service team for any website-related issues.
  • Potential discounts: Web hosts often give discounts for bundled services. You get a discount when you buy both hosting and domain registration together. This can be a cost-effective way to get started online.
  • Free domain registration (sometimes): Many web hosting providers include a free domain name for the first year as part of their hosting plans. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you’re just starting.

Step 4: Search the WHOIS Database

The WHOIS database is a more complex tool than the search bars on domain registrar websites. It is essentially an online directory containing information about domain name registrations. It allows you to look up not just names and availability but key details of that domain. Here’s what WHOIS offers:

  • Domain availability checks: While not the primary function, WHOIS can sometimes indicate if a domain is registered or available. Note it might not reflect real-time availability due to domain renewal or redemption periods after expiration.
  • Domain ownership information: WHOIS can reveal details about the domain owner, including:
    • Registrant Name (individual or organization)
    • Registrant Contact Information (depending on privacy settings)
    • Administrative Contact Information (technical contact)
  • Domain registration details:
    • Creation Date
    • Expiration Date
    • Name servers (directing traffic to the website)

Whois domain search

This is all useful information. They increase your chances of connecting with a domain owner and getting your desired domain name. You can then craft a proposal expressing your interest in purchasing the domain.

What to Do If Your Domain Name Is Taken

Some prospective website owners are lucky to find the domain names they want the first time around. While it’s good to keep an open mind with domain names, sometimes you’re attached to one or attracted to its keyword value. However, sometimes someone already thought of the name you had in mind and bought it. It can be frustrating, but there are some ways around it.

Use a different domain extension

  • “.com” is the most popular TLD and more likely to be taken. If it is, you may find other options that suit your needs. 
  • Consider your website’s purpose or target audience when you choose. For example, “.org” could be suitable for non-profit organizations, “.net” for technology-related websites, or “.co” for companies. 
  • Newer TLDs like “.io” (for startups) or “.blog” (for blogposting) can also be options. 
  • If your website caters to a specific region, using a country-specific TLD can be a good idea. For example, “.uk” for the United Kingdom or “.ca” for Canada.

Use a domain name generator

Many domain registrars and online tools offer domain name suggestions based on your desired keywords. These may provide a wide range of creative alternatives that you might not have considered.

Modify your desired name

  • Consider adding prefixes or suffixes to create a variation. 
  • You could add a keyword that describes what you do. Instead of lexi.com, you can try “getlexi” or “shoplexi.” 
  • Brainstorm synonyms or related words that capture the essence of your website or business. For example, if your ideal domain is “ideaworld.com” consider alternatives like “ideascape.com.” 
  • Use online thesaurus and keyword research tools to spark inspiration. 
  • If your chosen name is a bit lengthy, consider an abbreviation or acronym. This can work well for established brands or easily recognizable terms. 
  • Try combining your desired keywords with a hyphen in between. This way, you can keep your chosen name, but with a tweak. However, awkward hyphen placement or overly long domain names can be unsightly.

Contact the current owner

Check the domain registrar’s website for contact information. You can try reaching out to them to see if they’d be willing to sell the domain name to you.

Track the domain’s expiration

  • If the domain is inactive, you can use a WHOIS lookup tool to find its expiration date. 
  • If it becomes available again, you can try to register it quickly. However, be aware that some domains are set to auto-renew.

Domain backorder services

  • Some registrars offer domain backorder services. This allows you to express interest in a domain name that is currently registered. 
  • If the domain becomes available, the backorder service may attempt to register it on your behalf.

Domain auctions

Some domain names are put up for auction on specialized platforms. Take part in domain auctions to bid on and potentially acquire the desired domain.

Consider legal options

  • In some cases, you may be able to file a legal complaint. This is if the domain name infringes on your trademark or is cybersquatting (registered to sell it to you for a profit). 
  • This is usually a last resort due to the cost and complexity involved.

Consider a different domain name: 

Sometimes all the appealing names and their variations are taken. Instead of paying over the top or contorting a taken name, consider a different name. If your desired name is a single word, try combining it with another relevant word to create a new, unique name. Make sure the new choice aligns with your brand and goals. 

Don’t get discouraged if your first choice isn’t available. With a little creativity and exploration, there’s always another great domain name for your website.

Tips for choosing a domain name

Choosing a domain name can set you up for online success. The right name should reflect your brand and be easy for people to find and remember. Here are some key tips to guide you through the process. 

  • Keep it short: Aim for a domain name under 15 characters. Long names are harder to remember and type, increasing the chance of typos and missed traffic.
  • Memorability: Choose a name that’s easy to spell, pronounce, and recall. Avoid complex words or unusual spellings.
  • Brandability: Your domain name should ideally be unique and relevant to your brand, product, or service. This helps build brand recognition and establish a strong online identity.
  • Incorporate relevant keywords: Adding relevant keywords can improve SEO. They also make your website easier to find for users searching related terms. But, keywords change. So, focus on readability and brand alignment over adding too many keywords.
  • Simplicity: Avoid using hyphens, numbers, and special characters. These elements can make it harder for people to remember and type the domain name correctly.
  • Choose the right extension: “.com” is the most popular choice. But, consider alternatives like “.org” for non-profits, “.net” for tech businesses, or country-specific extensions for local audiences.
  • Do your research: Before finalizing a name, make sure it’s not trademarked or already in use by another website. Conduct a thorough search using domain name registrars and trademark databases.
  • Availability check: Once you have a few potential names, use a domain name registrar to check if they are available for registration.
  • Act fast: If you find the perfect domain name, register it quickly before someone else does.

Tips for registering your domain name

Once you’ve confirmed a domain name is available, you can go ahead to register it. Here are some best practices for registration.

  • Leverage bundled offers: Many web hosting providers offer domain registration as part of their hosting packages. Look for deals that include a free domain name with a hosting plan, which can save you money in the initial phase of setting up your website. Look for registrars that offer good customer support. They should also have fair prices and extra services, like DNS management.
  • Consider future expansion: Choose a hosting provider that offers scalability. As your business grows, you may need more out of your website. A good hosting provider can accommodate this growth without the need for a domain transfer. Make sure that your chosen domain name doesn’t infringe on existing trademarks. This can help you avoid legal issues as you scale in the future.
  • Social media availability: Check if the corresponding social media handles (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram) are available for your chosen domain name. Consistency across platforms strengthens your online brand identity. 
  • Understand the renewal process: Before registering, understand your hosting provider’s domain renewal terms and fees. Some offer automatic renewal services. They ensure your domain doesn’t expire because you forgot to renew it. Set up automatic renewal for your domain registration to prevent unintentional expiration. Losing ownership of your domain due to expiration can be detrimental to your online presence.
  • Bonus tip: Consider registering variations of your chosen domain name. This includes with and without hyphens or using different extensions. Doing so will stop others from claiming similar names. This could hurt your brand.

Tips for Protecting Your Domain Name

It’s not unexpected for others to want your domain name, even if you have no plans to part ways with it. Some may still try to get it, legitimately or illegitimately. By following the tips below, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, transfer, or misuse of your domain name. Thus safeguarding your online identity and brand reputation. Here are some key tips for protecting your valuable domain name. 

Choose a reputable registrar: Opt for a well-established and reliable domain registrar known for strong security practices. Look for registrars accredited by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).

Enable domain locking: Most registrars offer domain locking. It’s also known as a transfer lock. It prevents unauthorized transfers of your domain to another registrar. This adds an extra layer of security and helps prevent accidental or malicious domain hijacking.

Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA): Make intricate, unique passwords for your registrar account. Also, do this for any other accounts linked to your domain name. Also, use 2FA whenever available. It requires an extra verification step beyond just your password for logins. This greatly boosts security.

Keep your contact information updated: Make sure the contact details for your domain registration are accurate. They must be up-to-date. This helps the registrar reach you in case of any issues or important notifications regarding your domain.

Beware of phishing emails: Phishing emails often try to trick you into revealing sensitive information like your login details. Be cautious of emails claiming to be from your registrar and requesting personal details or urging you to click on suspicious links. Never share your login information or perform actions based on unsolicited emails.

Consider domain privacy protection: Domain privacy protection is sometimes offered as an add-on service by registrars. It hides your personal contact information in WHOIS searches. This can reduce unwanted solicitation and protect your privacy.

Monitor your domain name expiration: Domain names have expiration dates. Set up reminders or use the auto-renewal options from your registrar. They will help you avoid accidentally letting your domain lapse. That could make you lose control over it.

Be cautious when sharing domain name information: Don’t share your domain name login credentials in public. Also, don’t share other sensitive domain-related information. Only share this information with trusted individuals who genuinely need access for legitimate purposes.

Consider trademark protection: If your domain name is also your brand name or trademark, consider registering it as a trademark. This will protect against unauthorized use by others.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect domain name isn’t just about snagging a web address; it’s about laying the foundation for your online legacy. A well-chosen name will become a cornerstone for branding and search engine discoverability. But it is just the first piece of the puzzle. Choosing a secure and reliable hosting provider with strong security and the right website builder helps you complete that puzzle. These lay the groundwork for your online success, one carefully considered domain name and a secure, user-friendly platform at a time.

FAQ

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a domain name?

A: Common mistakes include using long and wordy domain names, using too many special characters, irrelevant names, or even copying an existing name. 

Q: How long can I register a domain name for?

A: Domain names can typically be registered for a period ranging from one year to ten years at a time. However, some exceptions exist. Certain top-level domains (TLDs) like “.au” allow registration for a maximum of five years at a time.

Q: What should I do if I find a perfect domain name that’s expiring soon?

A: Double-check the exact expiration date using a WHOIS lookup tool. Find out if it’s up for renewal, backorder, or auction. This information can usually be found on the domain registrar’s website. If the domain is still in the renewal grace period, you might be able to contact the current owner directly and express your interest in purchasing the domain.

 

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