Ever wondered if the perfect domain name is still out there? You’re not alone. Many people worry that all the good domain names are already taken, leaving them stuck with second-rate options. But is that really true? The world of domain names is full of myths and misconceptions, which can lead to unnecessary stress or confusion.
Myth 1: “All the Good Domains Are Taken”
This is probably the most common belief, and it’s easy to see why. After all, we’re decades into the internet age, and millions of domains have already been registered. But the idea that all good domains are gone isn’t entirely accurate. Sure, certain names—like single dictionary words or short acronyms—might be unavailable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find something great.
Think about it: creativity goes a long way when doing a domain name search. Combining words, adding meaningful prefixes or suffixes, or using less common extensions can give you a memorable and unique domain. Instead of aiming for “www[.]example[.]com,” you could consider something like “www[.]examplehub[.]com” or “www[.]tryexample[.]com.”
Plus, new domain extensions are constantly being introduced, so there’s more variety than ever before. Beyond the traditional .com, options like .tech, .shop, and .online are growing in popularity.
Myth 2: “If a Domain Is Taken, It’s Completely Unavailable”
Just because a domain is registered doesn’t mean it’s untouchable. Many domains are bought and never actively used. You might stumble upon a parked domain—one that’s registered but not being utilised. In these cases, you could contact the owner to negotiate a purchase.
If that sounds intimidating, don’t worry—it’s more common than you might think. Domain reselling is a thriving market, and a polite enquiry can often lead to a deal. Of course, premium domains can come with a hefty price tag, so it’s worth balancing your budget against the value of your ideal name.
Alternatively, keep an eye on expiring domains. Some owners fail to renew their registrations, meaning the domain will eventually go back on the market. Services exist to help track expiring domains, giving you a shot at snagging one that was previously unavailable.
Myth 3: “You Should Always Go for .com”
The .com extension has been the gold standard for decades, but it’s not the only option anymore. While .com domains are widely recognised and trusted, that doesn’t mean they’re always the best choice.
Let’s say your business operates within a specific industry or niche. A domain extension tailored to that niche—like .app for apps or .store for e-commerce—can immediately communicate your focus to visitors. Similarly, local extensions like .co.uk or .ca can appeal to region-specific audiences.
The bottom line? While .com is a strong choice, it’s far from the only one. The key is to choose an extension that aligns with your goals and audience.
Myth 4: “Longer Domain Names Are a Bad Idea”
Short and snappy domain names are definitely memorable, but that doesn’t mean longer names should be avoided at all costs. In fact, longer names can sometimes be more descriptive and brandable, especially when they include relevant keywords.
For example, “www[.]bestcoffeebeans[.]com” might be more effective for a coffee business than “www[.]bcb[.]com,” even though it’s longer. The clarity and specificity can help with search engine rankings and make your site’s purpose immediately obvious to users.
Of course, you’ll want to avoid excessively long names that are hard to type or remember. Striking the right balance is key.
Myth 5: “Hyphens and Numbers Look Unprofessional”
This one’s a bit of a mixed bag. Hyphens and numbers can be tricky—they’re easy to forget when typing a URL, and they’re sometimes associated with spammy sites. However, they’re not automatically unprofessional. If used thoughtfully, they can help secure a domain that closely matches your brand.
For instance, “www[.]blue-sky[.]com” might work well if “www[.]bluesky[.]com” is unavailable. The hyphen doesn’t change the meaning but allows you to register a desirable name. Similarly, numbers can be effective if they’re part of your brand identity, like “www[.]sevenwonders[.]com.”
Tips for Finding the Perfect Domain
So, what should you do when searching for your ideal domain? Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Brainstorm unique combinations – Mix keywords, brand names, and industry terms.
- Explore alternative extensions – Don’t limit yourself to .com; consider newer or niche-specific options.
- Think long-term – Choose a name that will grow with your business, even if your focus shifts slightly over time.
- Avoid trends – What’s trendy now may feel outdated in a few years, so aim for timeless appeal.
- Prioritise clarity – Whether it’s short or long, make sure your domain is easy to spell, type, and remember.
The Importance of a Great Domain Name
Your domain is your online identity. It’s the first impression many people will have of your business, so getting it right matters. A great domain can help build trust, improve visibility, and make your site easier to find. While some myths might make the process seem daunting, the reality is that you have more options than you might think.
The key is to be strategic and open-minded. Think about what will resonate most with your audience, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Whether you find your dream domain straight away or need to explore alternatives, there’s no shortage of opportunities to create a strong online presence.
Make Your Domain Work for You
At the end of the day, your domain name is just one piece of your online strategy—but it’s an important one. With the right approach, you can secure a name that reflects your brand, connects with your audience, and sets you up for success. So, what’s stopping you? Start exploring your options today and see what’s possible. You might just find that perfect domain is still waiting for you.
