How to buy a domain name

Buying a domain is quick when you know what to expect. Here is the process.

Step 1: Choose your domain

If you have not chosen one yet, start with How to choose a domain name. Once you have a name, you can buy it.

Step 2: Use a trusted registrar

A registrar is the company where you purchase the domain. Recommended options:

• Cloudflare – Transparent pricing, no upsells, free WHOIS privacy
• Namecheap – User-friendly, good support, affordable
• Porkbun – Clean interface, good pricing

Search for your chosen domain to check availability.

Step 3: Add to cart and proceed

Found an available domain? Add it to your cart and continue.

Step 4: Skip unnecessary add-ons

Registrars often upsell:

• Hosting
• Email services
• SSL certificates
• Premium DNS
• Website builders

You can skip most of these. The only add-on worth keeping: WHOIS privacy protection. It hides your personal details and is often free.

Step 5: Complete the purchase

Create an account, enter your details, and pay. The domain is then yours.

Step 6: Connect your domain to your website

WordPress

I handle DNS setup, hosting configuration, SSL, and domain routing. See Connecting your domain to hosting.

Shopify

Shopify handles hosting. I connect your domain to your store during setup.

For how DNS works, see Understanding DNS.

Step 7: Keep your domain safe

Once purchased:

• Enable auto-renew
• Keep payment details updated
• Maintain WHOIS privacy

See Domain safety: renewals and privacy.