Choosing a domain name is one of the most exciting steps in starting a WordPress website. It is your digital address and often the first thing people notice about your brand. Because changing a domain later can be difficult and may hurt your search rankings, it is important to get it right the first time.
Here are the best strategies to help you pick a domain name that is professional, memorable, and perfect for your goals.
1. Stick With .com If Possible
There are hundreds of domain extensions available today, from .net and .org to newer ones like .photography or .blog. However, the .com extension is still the gold standard.
Most users instinctively type .com at the end of a URL. It carries a level of trust and authority that newer extensions haven’t fully reached yet. If the .com version of your dream name is taken, try to tweak the name slightly before settling for a different extension.
2. Keep It Short and Simple
A long, complicated domain name is a recipe for typos. Aim for a name that is under 15 characters. Short names are easier to remember and look much cleaner on business cards or social media profiles.
If you have to explain how to spell your domain name more than once, it is probably too complicated. Avoid using words with multiple spellings or silent letters.
3. Avoid Hyphens and Double Letters
Using hyphens might seem like a good way to get the name you want, but they are often misunderstood. People frequently forget the hyphen when typing the address, which sends your potential visitors to someone else’s website.
Similarly, avoid names with doubled letters, such as “https://www.google.com/search?q=PressSetup.com.” These are prone to typos and can make the domain harder to read at a glance.
4. Use Keywords Strategically
Keywords tell search engines and users what your website is about. If you are starting a photography blog, having “photography” or “photos” in the name can be helpful.
However, do not overdo it. A domain like “https://www.google.com/search?q=BestCheapFastWordPressWebDesign.com” looks like spam. Instead, try to blend a keyword with a unique brand name to create something catchy.
5. Make It Brandable
Your domain should sound like a brand, not a generic description. “InsuranceQuotes.com” is descriptive, but “Geico.com” is a brand.
Brandable names are unique and stand out from the competition. Think about names like Amazon, Google, or Pinterest. They don’t necessarily describe what the site does, but they are easy to remember and easy to turn into a logo.
6. Research Your Choice
Before you hit the “buy” button, do a quick check on social media. Is the handle available on X, Instagram, and Facebook? You want your brand to be consistent across all platforms.
Also, make sure you aren’t infringing on any trademarks. Using a name that is too close to a protected brand can lead to legal trouble and the eventual loss of your domain.
7. Use Domain Name Generators
If you feel stuck, use technology to help. There are many free domain name generators available online. You simply enter one or two keywords, and the tool suggests hundreds of creative combinations. This is a great way to find ideas you might not have thought of on your own.
8. Act Fast
Domain names sell quickly. Thousands of domains are registered every single day. If you find a name that you love and it is available, do not wait too long to buy it. Most domain names are relatively inexpensive, so it is often better to secure it now even if you aren’t ready to launch the site today.
Summary Checklist
- Does it end in .com?
- Is it easy to type and pronounce?
- Is it free of hyphens and numbers?
- Does it represent your brand well?
- Are the social media handles available?
Choosing the right name for your WordPress site sets the foundation for your online success. Take your time, follow these steps, and pick a name that you will be proud of for years to come.
