How to buy a domain name: a step-by-step guide

Want to create a website, start a business or build your online presence? One of the first things you need is a domain name.

But how do you buy one? Where do you register it, how much does it cost, and what should you check before choosing a domain name?

This guide takes you through the process step by step, from choosing a name and checking its availability to registering and managing your domain.

What is a domain name?

A domain name is the address people use to find your website online. For example, in iwantmy.eu, “iwantmy” is the domain name and “.eu” is the domain extension, also known as a top-level domain.

Your domain name can be used for your website, email address and other online services, making it an important part of your online identity.

How to buy a domain name in 5 steps

1. Choose your domain name

Start by deciding what you want your domain name to be.

You could use your:

• business or organisation name;
• personal name;
• brand;
• project or initiative name; or
• a word or phrase related to what you do.

Try to choose a name that is easy to remember, spell and type. It should also make sense for your audience and ideally remain relevant if your website, business or project grows.

Not sure what name to choose? Read our guide to how to choose the best domain name for your Startup.

2. Check if your domain name is available

Once you have a name in mind, check whether it is available to register.

For .eu domain names, you can use EURid's domain search to check availability.

If your preferred name is already registered, try a variation or consider another suitable domain extension. It can be useful to have a few alternatives in mind before you start.

Before registering a domain, also make sure the name is suitable for your intended use and does not create confusion with an existing brand, organisation or business.

3. Choose a domain registrar

A domain registrar is a company that provides domain registration and management services.

For .eu domain names, registration is carried out through EURid-accredited registrars.

When choosing a registrar, you may want to compare:

• registration and renewal prices;
• customer support;
• domain management tools;
• security features;
• additional services, such as web hosting and email;
• terms and conditions.

Find an accredited .eu registrar

Your registrar will generally be your main point of contact for managing your domain, including renewals and other services connected to it.

4. Register your domain name

Once you have chosen an available domain name and a registrar, you can complete the registration.

You will need to provide the information requested by the registrar and agree to the applicable terms and conditions.

For .eu domain names, eligibility requirements apply. .eu can be registered by eligible individuals and organisations with a connection to the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway.

Make sure the information you provide is accurate and kept up to date.

5. Start using and managing your domain

Once your registration is complete, you can start using your domain name.

You can connect it to:

• a website;
• an online shop;
• a blog or portfolio;
• professional email addresses;
• a landing page; or
• other online services.

Your registrar will provide the tools you need to manage your domain.

Remember that domain names are registered for a specific period. If you want to continue using yours, you need to renew it according to your registrar's terms.

How much does a domain name cost?

There is no single price for a domain name. Costs vary depending on the domain extension, registrar and services included.

When comparing registrars, look at both the initial registration price and the renewal price. Some registrars may also offer additional services at an extra cost.

For .eu domains, you can compare the services and prices offered by accredited registrars before registering your domain.

Who can register a .eu domain name?

A .eu domain name is available to eligible individuals and organisations.

You can register a .eu domain if you are:

a citizen of an EU Member State, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway, regardless of where you live; an individual who resides in an EU Member State, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway; or an undertaking or organisation established in an EU Member State, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway.

Find out more about .eu eligibility and registration rules.

Why choose a .eu domain?

The domain extension you choose is part of your online identity.

A .eu domain can be a natural choice if you want your website to communicate a European identity or operate across European markets.

It is available to eligible individuals, businesses and organisations across the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

What if the domain name I want is already taken?

It is common for a preferred domain name to already be registered.

If that happens, you can try:

• a shorter version of the name;
• adding a relevant word;
• a variation of your brand or business name;
• another suitable domain extension; or
• a different name that communicates the same idea.

Don't choose a domain name simply because it is available. Make sure it is memorable, relevant and appropriate for your website or organisation.

Can I buy a domain name permanently?

Not usually. A domain name is registered for a specific period rather than purchased permanently.

To keep using it, you need to renew the registration when required. Your registrar should provide information about renewal and any applicable deadlines.

Keeping your contact and registration information up to date is also important.

Ready to register your domain name?

Buying a domain name is a straightforward process:

Choose your name → Check availability → Choose a registrar → Register your domain → Start using it

If you are looking for a European domain name, check whether your preferred .eu domain name is available and find an accredited registrar to complete your registration.