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BUSINESS NEWS - Registering a domain name is one of the most important steps in establishing an online presence. However, many people make critical mistakes during the registration process, leading to branding issues and unnecessary expenses. To enjoy a smooth domain registration experience, here are the top mistakes to avoid.
1. Choosing a complicated or hard-to-spell name
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a domain name when using a website builder that is too complex or difficult to spell. If your domain is challenging to remember or type, potential visitors may struggle to find your website.
Stick to simple and easy-to-pronounce names that are brandable and user-friendly. Avoid using numbers, hyphens, or uncommon spellings that might confuse people.
2. Not checking for trademarks and copyrights
Before registering a domain using your website builder, it’s crucial to check whether the name is already trademarked by another company. Using a domain that infringes on someone else's trademark can result in legal battles, forcing you to change your website’s name after you've already built an audience.
Always conduct a trademark search before committing to a domain name.
3. Ignoring alternative domain extensions
While .com is the most popular and widely recognised domain extension, many other extensions, such as .net, .org, .co, and .io, are available.
If your preferred .com domain is taken, consider whether another extension would work for your brand. Also, securing multiple extensions can help prevent competitors or cyber squatters from using a similar domain name.
4. Not eenewing the domain on time
Many website owners forget to renew their domain registration, which can lead to losing ownership of the domain. Once a domain expires, someone else can register it, potentially harming your business or brand.
To prevent this, set up auto-renewal with your domain registrar and keep your contact information updated so you receive renewal reminders.
5. Using a free or unreliable email address
When registering a domain, it’s essential to use a professional email address instead of a free service like Gmail or Yahoo.
Some registrars send important renewal notices and verification emails, and if you lose access to your email, you might miss essential updates. Consider setting up an email address on your domain (e.g., yourname@yourdomain.com) to maintain control.
6. Choosing a registrar without research
Not all domain registrars are created equal. Some may charge excessive fees with poor customer support, or make transferring domains difficult.
Before registering, research different registrars, compare pricing, and read customer reviews. Look for a reputable provider that offers good security features and is transparent.
7. Registering a domain too late
Great domain names get taken quickly, so delaying your registration could mean losing the perfect domain for your brand. If you have a business idea or a project in mind, secure the domain as soon as possible. Even if you’re not ready to build the website, registering the domain early makes sure that you own the name before someone else does.
8. Not considering SEO and branding
Your domain name can impact search engine optimisation (SEO) and branding. Avoid stuffing keywords into your domain unnaturally, as this can look spammy. Instead, aim for a name that is relevant and easy to brand.
A strong, memorable domain name can boost your credibility and make it easier for customers to find you online.
Final thoughts
Registering a domain is an essential step in establishing your online identity, but simple mistakes can lead to costly problems. By avoiding these common pitfalls you can have a smooth domain registration process and set your website up for long-term success. Always plan ahead, do your research, and protect your investment to build a strong online presence.
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