Registering a domain is one of the easier parts of getting a website online. With a clear plan, it takes a few minutes.
Step 1: Choose your domain name
If you have not chosen one yet, start with How to choose a domain name. Keep it simple, clear, and reflective of your brand.
Step 2: Search at a trusted registrar
A registrar is a company authorised to sell domain names. Cloudflare Registrar is the usual recommendation — see Cloudflare Registrar explained or register at Cloudflare. Alternatives include Namecheap, Porkbun, and IONOS if you want domains and hosting from one provider (affiliate link).
Type your desired domain into their search bar to check availability. If the exact name is taken, try clean variations (e.g. adding “studio”, using .co.uk instead of .com).
Step 3: Add your domain to the cart
Find an available domain you like? Add it to the cart. Registrars usually guide you through this.
Step 4: Review add-ons (most are not needed)
Registrars offer extras:
- SSL certificates
- Email accounts
- Web hosting
- Website builders
- Premium DNS
You can skip almost all 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
After registering, the domain needs to be connected to your hosting.
WordPress: If you host on xCloud or my white-label hosting, I configure DNS records, SSL, and domain routing.
Shopify: Hosting is built in. I connect your domain to your store and handle the configuration.
Step 7: Keep your domain secure
Once registered:
- Enable auto-renew
- Keep payment details current
- Store login details safely
- Maintain WHOIS privacy
Unclear on domain setup or transfers? Get in touch →