What is a domain name and why does it matter?

A domain name is the address of your website on the internet. It is what people type into their browser to visit your website, such as yourcompany.nl. A good domain name matters because:

Why should you always check whether a domain name is available?

Before you build a website or set up a business email address, you need to check whether the domain name you want to use is still available. This prevents disappointment and legal problems. If your domain name is already in use, you cannot register the same name.

How does a domain name check work?

A domain name check is simple: you enter the name you want at a domain registration company and immediately see whether it is available. Such a tool searches the database of registrars such as SIDN (for .nl domains), Verisign (for .COM and others) and Theory7.

👉 Check your domain name right away: Theory7 Domain Name Check.

Step by step: How do you check whether a domain name is available?

  1. Go to a domain name check tool such as Theory7.
  2. Enter the domain name you want, for example mycompany.nl.
  3. Click "Check and immediately see whether the domain name is available.
  4. Available? Register the name right away!
  5. Taken? Consider alternatives such as a different extension or a small change to the name.

Handy tools for a domain name check:

Tips for choosing a strong domain name

A good domain name makes the difference between success and a missed opportunity. Here are a few important tips:

✅ Keep it short and recognizable
Long and complicated domain names are hard to remember and type. Preferably choose a name of no more than 12 characters.

✅ Use keywords for better visibility
If you run a plumbing business in Rotterdam, for example, plumberrotterdam.nl can help you rank higher in Google.

✅ Avoid confusion and legal problems
Do not use brand names or existing company names in your domain name. This can lead to legal problems and claims.

✅ Choose a relevant domain extension

  • .nl for businesses and websites in the Netherlands
  • .com for international projects
  • .net for technical and network-related businesses

💰 Check domain name prices per extension here: Domain name prices.

What if your domain name is already taken?

Don't panic! Here are a few smart alternatives:

🔹 Add an extra word: for example yourcompanyonline.nl instead of yourcompany.nl.
🔹 Use a different extension: if .nl is taken, you can look at .com, .net, or even a creative option such as .shop.
🔹 Contact the owner: sometimes you can buy an existing domain name through a domain marketplace.

💡 Tip: Use Theory7's domain name search to find alternative suggestions.

Registering a domain name and next steps

Once you have found a domain name, register it right away so nobody else runs off with it.

🔹 How do you register a domain name?

  1. Go to a domain registration platform such as Theory7.
  2. Enter the domain name and choose a term (1, 2 or more years).
  3. Link the domain name to a hosting plan for your website or email.
  4. Complete the payment and manage your domain name in your account.

What comes next?

✔️ Choose web hosting: need hosting? Then check out the options at Theory7 Web Hosting.
✔️ Install WordPress: want to build a website? Then choose WordPress hosting.
✔️ Set up a business email address: a professional email address with your domain name, such as info@yourcompany.nl, looks trustworthy and professional.

Specifically: a domain name for a website vs. business email

📌 For a WordPress website:
A domain name with strong SEO value helps your website rank higher in Google. See WordPress hosting.

📌 For business email:
An email address such as info@yourcompany.nl gives you a professional look and more trust from customers. See the options at Theory7.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

🚨 Domain names that are too long or complicated: keep it short and simple.
🚨 Using the wrong extensions: choose an extension that suits your target audience.
🚨 Not doing a trademark check: avoid legal problems by checking your domain name against existing trademarks.

Checking a domain name is an essential first step when you set up your website or business email. Make sure you choose a strong, recognizable name and register it right away to avoid disappointment.

🔥 Check your domain name now and register it before someone else does!
👉 Check & Register a Domain Name.

Further reading