If you’re building a website in 2025, understanding what a domain name is and how to choose the right one is essential for your online success. A domain name is more than just a web address—it’s your brand identity, your digital home, and often the first impression visitors will have of your business or blog. From knowing how to select a domain name to understanding what is a TLD (Top-Level Domain) and the different types available, the right choice can boost your credibility, improve your SEO, and make your site easier to find. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about domain names, including cost comparisons, tips for buying, and even how to get a domain name for free.
Whether you’re starting a personal blog, launching an online store, or building a corporate site, picking the right domain name is a decision you can’t afford to rush. We’ll walk you through where to buy a domain name, the pros and cons of different domain registrars, and the importance of pairing your domain with a reliable hosting plan. You’ll also learn the difference between generic TLDs like .com and industry-specific extensions, plus insider tips on locking in the best deals and avoiding renewal price hikes. By the end, you’ll have a complete roadmap to choose, register, and secure your perfect domain—without overspending.
A domain name is an essential component of Google SEO Basics because it influences brand recognition, click-through rates, and can include targeted keywords that improve search engine visibility.
What Is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the web address people type into their browser to visit your website. For example, google.com, openai.com, or yoursite.net.
Technically, a domain name is a human-readable version of an IP address—instead of typing 192.168.1.1, you type a name that’s easy to remember.
Every website needs a domain name to be accessible on the internet.
Example:
Domain Name:
example.comIP Address:
93.184.216.34
A domain name is just one part of building a successful online presence. Starting a blog and making it sustainable requires many elements, including detailed planning—read our comprehensive guide on how to start a blog and earn passive income online to learn every step.
Is an IP Address Unique for Every Website?
An IP address is the numerical label assigned to a server or hosting account that stores your website’s files.
Whether each website has a unique IP address depends on the type of hosting you use.
- In dedicated hosting, your website is assigned its own IP address—this can improve email deliverability, provide SSL flexibility, and sometimes boost site performance.
- However, in shared hosting, multiple websites share the same IP address because they are hosted on the same server. This is common for small websites and blogs, and it doesn’t negatively affect SEO as long as the sites are reputable.
- For sites needing higher security, faster performance, or custom server configurations, a dedicated IP (available on VPS or dedicated hosting plans) is the better choice.
What Is a TLD (Top-Level Domain) and how is it related to domain name?
A TLD, or Top-Level Domain, is the last part of your domain name, appearing after the dot.
Examples:
.com→ Commercial use.org→ Organizations.net→ Networks.edu→ Education
TLDs are managed by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers).
Different Types of TLD Available
In 2025, there are over 1,500 TLD options, but they fall into three main categories:
1. Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs)
.com,.org,.net,.info,.xyzWidely recognized and available to anyone.
2. Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs)
.us(United States),.uk(United Kingdom),.in(India)Useful for businesses targeting a specific country.
3. New gTLDs
Industry-specific extensions like
.photography,.blog,.store,.techGood for branding but may be less trusted than
.comfor some users.
(Full list of TLDs: ICANN List)
How to Select a Domain Name
Choosing the right domain name is critical for SEO, branding, and trust.
Here’s your Domain Name Selection Checklist:
✅ Keep It Short and Simple – Ideally under 15 characters.
✅ Easy to Remember – Avoid complicated words.
✅ Avoid Numbers and Hyphens – They cause confusion.
✅ Use Keywords (If Possible) – Example: besttravelguides.com for a travel blog.
✅ Choose the Right TLD – .com is still the most trusted.
✅ Make It Brandable – Unique and catchy.
✅ Check Availability on Social Media – Consistent branding across platforms.
(Pro Tip: Use Namechk to check availability across domains and social handles.)
From Where to Buy a Domain Name
You can purchase a domain name from domain registrars—companies accredited by ICANN to sell domain names.
Top Domain Registrars in 2025:
Namecheap – Affordable & beginner-friendly
GoDaddy – Large selection & extra services
- Bluehost – Often includes a free domain with hosting plans
Cost of Obtaining a Domain Name (2025 Comparison)
The cost of a domain name depends on the TLD you choose, the registrar you buy from, and whether it’s a new registration or a premium domain.
For standard .com domains, you can expect to pay between $8 – $15 per year for the first term, with renewal prices sometimes higher. Country-specific or premium TLDs like .io or .ai can cost $30 – $70 per year, and highly brandable premium domains can run into hundreds or thousands of dollars.
2025 Price Comparison for Popular Registrars (For ‘ .com’)
| Registrar | First-Year Price | Renewal Price | Free WHOIS Privacy? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Namecheap | $9.58 | $14.98 | Yes |
| GoDaddy | $11.99 | $21.99 | No (Paid extra) |
| Bluehost (with hosting) | Free for 1 year | $17.99 | Yes |
| Hostinger (with hosting) | Free for 1 year | $13.99 | Yes |
How to Get Discounts and Deals on Domain Names
Buying a domain name doesn’t have to be expensive—there are several ways to save money and even get your first year free.
1. Look for First-Year Promo Offers
Most registrars offer heavily discounted first-year prices for new customers. For example, Namecheap and GoDaddy often run .com promotions for under $1. Keep in mind that renewal rates will be higher, so plan accordingly.
2. Bundle with Web Hosting
Many hosting companies, including Bluehost, Hostinger, and SiteGround, provide a free domain for the first year when you purchase a hosting plan exceeding 12 months. This is an excellent deal if you’re launching a new website.
When we launched RankUltra.com, we opted for a 48-month web hosting plan from Hostinger for around US$120, which also included a free domain name for the first year. In theory, this plan supports hosting up to 100 websites, but in practice, the 100 GB storage limit would make it challenging to run that many sites smoothly. Still, it offers more than enough resources to establish a strong online presence across multiple niches or sectors.
3. Register Domain Names for Longer Duration
Always register your domain name for multiple years if you get a great price—this locks in the discount and prevents sudden renewal hikes.
4. Use Coupon Codes
Sites like RetailMeNot, CouponFollow, and registrar newsletters regularly share promo codes for discounts.
5. Buy During Seasonal Sales
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year sales are popular times for registrars to slash prices. If you’re not in a rush, waiting for these periods can save you money.
6. Consider Alternative TLDs
While .com is the gold standard, other TLDs like .xyz, .online, or .site are often much cheaper—sometimes under $2 for the first year. Just be sure they align with your brand.
7. Watch for Free Domain Offers
If you just need a domain for testing or personal projects, providers like Freenom offer free TLDs like .tk or .ml. However, they’re not recommended for serious or business websites due to trust and ownership concerns.
Final Recommendation for Buying Domain Names
If you’re starting a new website, our recommendation is to go with a Hostinger hosting plan for at least 12 months—and ideally 48 months if you’re confident in your business idea. Hostinger offers reliable, fast, and super-affordable hosting, making it perfect for bloggers, startups, and small businesses. Best of all, hosting plans of 12 months or more include a free domain name for the first year, allowing you to save money while getting everything you need to launch your online presence in one place. Plus, a ton of other benefits such as free SSL, free email for 1 year, etc.
