Domain Search - How to Find Attractive Domains

With more markets being impacted by digitalization, having your own web presence on the internet is becoming increasingly important in many areas. But how can you find your desired domain name during the domain search?

A distinctive domain is often the key to the success of a website. Ideally, the desired domain is memorable, unique, and reflects both the content and the operator. However, the first step is for a provider to search for and identify available domains. Checking domain availability can be a significant effort, as larger projects often require querying numerous addresses simultaneously.

There are various methods for finding interesting domains. For a single, not particularly attractive address, a manual browser search might suffice. However, even such domains might already be reserved, making a thorough domain check essential. A domain check queries the relevant databases for the selected address and immediately displays whether the desired domain is still available for domain registration.

What Requirements Should a Desired Domain Fulfill?

First, it’s crucial to define your specific requirements for the domain check. For a personal website, simply checking MeinName.de and registering it if available might be sufficient. For an online shop or other commercial ventures, it’s advisable to also check multiple extensions (TLDs). Commercial projects should ideally use several TLDs, such as .eu, .com, .de, as well as regional or industry-specific extensions like .bike or .berlin. While some areas might still have one or two available domains, the ideal domain should offer multiple options that can redirect to a single website.

How Does a Domain Check Work?

To check available domains with multiple alternatives, tools like the Hosttest domain check can be used. This tool instantly shows which addresses with which extensions are still available and the costs associated with reserving them. Customers should pay attention to contract terms, renewal policies, and special conditions like discounts for new customers. To search for domains, simply enter the desired name in the appropriate field. The domain check runs in real-time. Domain costs vary significantly by TLD, ranging from a few cents per month to double-digit euro amounts. While traditional domains like .de or .com tend to be more affordable, exotic TLDs like .io or .ag often come with higher costs.

Are There Restrictions on Available Domains?

It’s evident that domain allocation is subject to a country’s local laws and regulations. Therefore, certain addresses that conflict with personal naming rights, registered trademarks, public interest, or legal provisions are only granted after careful examination. While the criteria in disputes are not always legally clear, registration authorities may require evidence of interest and purpose for a desired domain. Generally, available domains are allocated to the first applicant. However, the address must then be actively used, and under certain circumstances, the domain owner may be obligated to relinquish it.

Searching for and Finding the Right Domain - A Checklist

To find the perfect desired domain, some key points should be considered during the search. This can help prevent conflicts and issues later on. The most important questions are:

• Memorability: Is the domain simple and easy to remember? The ideal domain should be short and concise, avoiding complicated special characters or umlauts. This ensures fewer typing errors and makes the domain easier to share, such as over the phone.
• Expandability: Are additional domains with other TLDs planned in the short or long term? Are they still available, or should an alternative be considered? To stay ahead of the competition, consider ordering suitable alternatives immediately.
• Extension: The costs of different TLDs vary significantly. Is it worthwhile to stick to specific extensions, or should other options be explored? While good names for traditional extensions might already be taken, newer TLDs often offer a broader selection of available domains.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): A domain impacts a website's ranking in search results. Is the desired name clear, distinctive, and popular? Can it be easily associated with its content? This benefits both website visitors and search engines in categorizing your content.

If a desired domain meets all the conditions, it should be officially reserved. Available domains are assigned to the first applicant and can only be revoked under exceptional circumstances.