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Getting a domain name is an exciting step towards establishing an online presence, whether you're starting a business, making an eCommerce website or want to create a blog. However, once the initial thrill of purchasing a domain subsides, many are left wondering about the next steps required to turn a domain into a functional website.
In this article, we'll guide you through the essential steps you need to make the most of your domain investment. We'll outline everything from selecting the right hosting platform to protecting and maintaining your domain name.
Use a domain name generator if you need help coming up with an idea. Already have an idea? Check the availability with a domain name search tool.
8 steps to take after buying a domain name
01. Sync your domain and hosting
The first step after securing your domain is to sync it with your hosting provider. A domain name is your website's URL, but you need hosting to have a place where your website's files live. Think of hosting as renting space on the internet. Without hosting, your domain is just an empty lot.
When you register a domain name with Wix, it's already connected to secure web hosting once you build a website. Otherwise, you'll need to sync your domain with your hosting and update your domain's Domain Name System (DNS) settings. This involves pointing your domain name to your hosting server using nameservers provided by your host.
Most domain registrars and hosting providers offer clear instructions or even tools to streamline this process. Once the DNS settings are configured, it may take a few hours for the changes to propagate across the web.
Selecting a reliable hosting website is crucial for the performance and stability of your website. A good hosting provider ensures that your website runs smoothly and remains accessible to customers at all times. When choosing a hosting platform, consider the following factors:
Uptime guarantee: Look for a provider that offers a high uptime percentage, ideally 99.9%. This ensures your website is available when customers need it.
Scalability: Choose a hosting plan that can grow with your business. As your customer base expands, you may need additional resources, so consider platforms that offer easy upgrades.
Speed and performance: Fast loading times are essential for a positive user experience. Research the hosting service's speed performance and read up on reviews from other users.
Customer support: Having reliable support can make a significant difference when facing technical issues. Opt for a hosting provider that offers 24/7 customer support via multiple channels, such as live chat, phone or business email.
Security features: Ensure the hosting provider offers robust website security measures, including SSL certificates, malware protection and regular backups to keep your data safe and maintain customer trust.
Cost and value: While it's important to stay within budget, make sure to evaluate the overall value offered by the hosting service, including features, support and site reliability.
Tip: When you choose a domain name and make a website with Wix, free website hosting is included.
New to domain names? Learn more about what is a domain and how to choose a domain name.
02. Use your domain for a custom email address
Learn how to create a business email with your domain name (e.g., info@yourdomain.com) to look professional and build trust with your audience. For small business owners and entrepreneurs, it's key to establishing credibility right from the start. Plus, it helps keep business and personal emails separate. You can often set up a custom business email through your hosting provider, and many hosting plans include email services. Once it's set up, integrate it with your platforms and devices for seamless communication.
03. Create a website that’s attached to your domain
Your domain is the gateway to your online presence, and creating a website is the next critical step. A website showcases your products, services or ideas to the world. For new website owners, this may seem challenging, but with the right tools and guidance, it's completely achievable.
Choose a website builder that’s easy to use and provides all the tools you need to create a professional-looking site. Wix offers user-friendly interfaces and customizable website templates, making it easier for beginners to create professional-looking sites.
Design your website with your audience in mind. Make it visually appealing, easy to navigate and mobile-friendly. Content is king, so focus on creating engaging and informative material that aligns with your goals. Include essential sections like 'About Us,' 'Contact' and 'Services' or 'Products.' Once your website is ready, connect it to your domain, making your vision a reality.
04. Match your social media account names to your domain
Consistency is key when building a brand online. Matching your social media account names to your domain name helps create a unified brand identity across platforms. It makes it easier for your audience to find you and enhances brand recognition.
Start by checking availability on major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Aim to secure handles that closely match your domain name. If your exact domain name isn't available, consider variations that still reflect your brand.
Once your accounts are set up, ensure they are linked to your website. Use your domain name in your bio or profile description, and include links to your website in your posts or updates. This not only drives traffic to your site but also enhances your credibility and authority in your field.
05. Register and trademark your domain
Securing your domain is just the beginning. To protect your brand, consider registering and trademarking your domain name. This legal protection prevents others from using your domain name or a similar one, helping to safeguard your brand's identity and reputation.
To register your trademark, conduct a search to ensure that your domain name isn't already in use. Then, file a trademark application with the relevant governmental authority. In the U.S., this would be the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The process can be intricate, so consulting with a legal expert in trademark law might be beneficial. You can read our in-depth guide on how to trademark a domain for more information.
While registration and trademarking come with costs, they offer long-term benefits by reducing risks of legal disputes and protecting your brand's value. It's a critical step for entrepreneurs and small business owners aiming for growth and recognition in the marketplace.
Learn more about how to register a domain name. Find the domain owner and registration details for a website with a Whois domain lookup.
06. Maintain and protect your domain
Owning a domain is not a one-time event; it requires ongoing domain management, maintenance and protection. Regularly renew your domain registration to avoid losing it. Set up automatic renewals with your registrar to prevent lapse and ensure uninterrupted online presence.
Protect your domain from cyber threats by implementing security measures. Enable domain privacy protection to shield your personal information from public WHOIS databases. Consider adding SSL certificates to encrypt data transferred between your website and users, enhancing trust and potentially boosting search engine rankings. All Wix sites come with an SSL certificate, providing added security and peace of mind.
Monitor your domain's performance and reputation. Use tools to track uptime, site speed and SEO metrics. Staying proactive about maintenance ensures your website remains accessible, secure and effective in reaching your goals.
07. Optimize for search engines (SEO)
SEO helps your website get noticed in search results and attracts organic traffic. Start with keyword research to understand what your audience is searching for, and naturally include those terms in your content. Optimize your pages by using these keywords in headings, subheadings and even your URLs. Keep your content structured, clear and easy to navigate. Add meta tags, like title tags and meta descriptions, to give search engines and users a quick overview of your page.
Make sure your site is mobile-friendly—search engines prioritize mobile-first indexing. Link building is another key step. Gain credibility by earning backlinks from trusted sources, and improve navigation with internal links. Don’t forget about speed—optimize your images and reduce unnecessary scripts to make your site load faster.
Keep your content fresh and engaging. Regular updates, like blog posts or resources, help your site stay relevant and target a wider range of keywords over time. By leveraging these SEO features and strategies, you’ll build a solid SEO foundation that boosts your visibility and helps your audience easily find the information they need.
08. Sell your domain name (optional)
While not everyone intends to sell their domain name, domain flipping it's a viable option if you're looking to pivot or monetize your investment. Some domain names hold significant value due to their keywords, length or industry relevance. Research the market to determine your domain's worth.
Ensure a smooth transfer process by working with your registrar or a domain broker. Selling your domain can be a strategic move, providing financial returns and opening opportunities for new ventures.
Learn more: How to transfer a domain name, Most common industry domain names
I have a domain name, now what? FAQ
How long after purchasing a domain can you use it?
After purchasing a domain, you can typically use it immediately. However, it may take up to 48 hours for the domain to fully propagate and be visible on the internet. During this time, you may experience some temporary issues with accessing your website or emails associated with the domain. If issues persist after 48 hours, contact your hosting provider for assistance.
Do I need a website if I have a domain name?
While having a website is highly recommended for businesses and individuals looking to establish an online presence, it’s not necessary to have one just because you have a domain name. Some people purchase domains solely for email purposes or to secure their brand identity online without having an active website, often resulting in a parked domain.
When you buy a domain name, do you own it?
Yes, when you purchase a domain name, you own the rights to that specific domain for the registration period. However, it’s important to note that you do not own the internet itself or have exclusive rights to use certain words or phrases in other contexts. Additionally, if you fail to renew your domain registration, you may lose ownership of the domain. It's crucial to regularly maintain and protect your domain to ensure its continued ownership. So make sure you keep an eye on your domain expiration dates and set up automatic renewals with your registrar.
Can I change my domain name after purchasing it?
Yes, it is possible to change a domain name after purchasing it. However, this process can be complex and may involve transferring the registration to a different registrar or purchasing a new domain altogether. It's essential to carefully consider your options and consult with an expert before making any changes to your domain name.
Can I permanently own my own domain name?
You can’t permanently own a domain name, but you can make managing it simple. Domains are registered for specific periods and need to be renewed to keep your ownership active. If you don’t renew, the domain could become available for someone else to claim. By setting up automatic renewals, you can ensure you never lose your domain—making it easy to keep it for as long as you need.
What should I do with my domain name?
Your domain can serve various purposes. Use it to launch a personal blog, create a professional business website or set up branded email addresses. If you’re not ready to launch a website, you can park the domain or redirect it to an existing site. Be sure to secure your domain with privacy protection and keep it active with auto-renewal.
What are top-level domains?
Top-level domain extensions are one of the highest levels in the web’s hierarchical Domain Name System (DNS). The most popular example of a TLD is .com, which is intended for commercial entities in the United States (hence .com). Other popular TLDs include .info, .org, .co, .net, .edu, .biz .gov, .tv and country-specific extensions such as .mx, .ch, .de, .be, .nl. or .co.uk.