Register domain

The right domain name — here is how to choose

A good domain name is the foundation of your online presence. Here you can read what to look out for — and check availability instantly.

Included
What to consider when choosing
  • Choose a name that is short, recognisable and easy to remember
  • Choose an extension that suits your audience and purpose
  • Register quickly — good names are taken fast

From choosing a name to registering — in three steps

Registering a domain name is straightforward. Follow the steps below and secure your name quickly and without any hassle.

Step 1

Choose your name and extension

Think of a name that suits your brand, business or project. Then choose an extension that matches your audience — such as .nl for the Netherlands or .com for international reach.

Step 2

Check availability

Use our domain checker to see instantly whether your desired name is still free. Also check variants and other extensions — that way you protect your name from being used by others.

Step 3

Order and active straight away

Order your domain name via our website. After payment your domain is registered immediately and active within minutes. Ordering multiple variants at the same time is no problem.

Domain check

Check instantly whether your domain name is still available

Enter your desired name and go straight to the availability check.

Tip: also try variations such as .com or .shop.

Which extension suits you?

The most popular extensions — briefly explained

The extension you choose says something about who you are and who you serve. These are the four most popular extensions among our customers.

.nl — for the Netherlands

The trusted choice for Dutch websites and businesses. Immediately recognisable to a local audience and strong for online visibility.

.com — international

The most widely used extension worldwide. A logical choice if you want visibility beyond the Netherlands or if your preferred name is already taken under .nl.

.be — for Belgium

The country code for Belgium. Ideal for Belgian businesses and organisations that want to be recognisable and easy to find for their local audience.

.eu — for Europe

The European extension — a strong choice for businesses and projects with a cross-border character or a deliberate European positioning.

Tips for a good domain name

What to look out for when choosing your domain name?

A good domain name is short, recognisable and free of confusion. These six tips help you choose a name that works — for your visitors and for search engines.

Keep it short and simple

The shorter and simpler your name, the easier visitors remember and type it. Choose jansblog.nl over jansgreatblog.nl — a short name always works better.

Avoid other people's brand names

Do not use existing brand names in your domain name. This can cause legal issues and comes across as unprofessional. Check the trade register in advance to avoid any surprises.

Avoid confusion

Do not replace words with numbers or symbols — such as 4 for "for" or 2 for "to". That makes your name harder to remember and can come across as unprofessional. Simple is always better.

Choose the right extension

With over 500 extensions available, you have plenty of choice. .nl is the obvious choice for many, but extensions like .shop, .store or .blog can be a good fit for your activity or brand.

Think about findability

Your business name as a domain is logical, but a locally focused name can work well too. A name like dogwalkinginzwijndrecht.com helps people find you faster via search engines.

No hyphens or punctuation

Choose jansblog.nl over jans-blog.nl. Hyphens and punctuation make a name harder to remember and cause confusion — especially if the version without a hyphen is already registered by someone else.

Useful resources when choosing your name

Before registering a domain name, it is wise to check whether the name is available — as a company name and as a trademark. These four resources will help you do just that.

KVK Trade Register

Check whether your desired name is already registered with the Chamber of Commerce. This helps you avoid choosing a name that is already in use.

BOIP Trademark Register

Search the Benelux trademark register to check whether your desired name has already been registered as a trademark. This helps you avoid legal issues down the line.

Google Trends

Discover how popular certain search terms are in your industry or region. Useful when choosing between two names and you want to know which fits best.

Catchtiger

Looking for inspiration for an original name? Catchtiger generates suggestions based on keywords and helps you find creative combinations that are still available.

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Frequently asked questions about registering domain names

Below you will find answers to common questions about choosing and registering a domain name. Can't find yours? We are happy to help.

That depends on your audience and purpose. For a Dutch audience, .nl is the most trusted choice. Want to be visible internationally as well? Register .com too. With over 500 extensions available, we are happy to help you find the right combination.

It is not required, but it is a smart move. Securing your name across multiple extensions — such as .nl, .com and .be — prevents others from using it. You can easily redirect all variants to a single main domain.

Try a different extension or a slight variation of your name. If the name belongs to you but is registered elsewhere, you can request a domain transfer if you are the rightful owner.

Not sure which variant suits you best? We are happy to think along with you.

Most domain names are registered immediately after payment and active within minutes. For some extensions this may take slightly longer — this depends on the requirements of the relevant registry.

Yes, you can register a domain name without taking out a hosting package straight away. If you want to launch a website later, you can easily connect a hosting package to your existing domain name.

Of course. We are happy to help you choose the right name and extensions, even if you have not quite made up your mind yet. Feel free to contact us — we will think along with you and give honest advice without any obligations.
Need help?

We are happy to help you make the right choice

Not sure about your domain name or which extensions suit you best? Feel free to contact us — we will think along with you and give honest advice.

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