Choosing a good domain name? Use our tips!

Want to launch yourself or your business online? Then choosing a good domain name is essential. So take the time to carefully consider the best domain name for the project of your dreams. With these handy tips from Combell, you’ll discover the possibilities.

Why is choosing a good domain name so important?

Because first impressions are everything! Your domain name is often the first thing visitors see of your brand.

It’s your online business card, the name people type into their browser, and the link they share with others. A strong domain name makes you easier to find, is more memorable, and builds trust with your visitors.

Especially in an online world where competitors are only a click away, the right domain name can mean the difference between being forgotten or standing out. You're here to stay!

"How do I choose a good domain name?"

To keep it simple: a good domain name is easy, recognizable, and relevant. When registering a domain name, it's best if the name is short and easy to spell, so visitors can return to your site without difficulty.

Avoid complicated terms, hyphens, or numbers. The simpler, the better! Also think about the extension: a .be or .com exudes professionalism, while a niche extension (.shop, .tech, ...) can highlight your area of expertise.

Domain name with a hyphen ... or better without?

Debating between a domain name with or without a hyphen (e.g. my-business.be vs. mybusiness.be)? Consider the following:

Include a keyword in your domain name

A smart domain name strengthens your brand identity. If the name aligns with your company or core activity, it helps lodge your brand in the minds of your audience.

A professional domain name builds trust. This is crucial for new visitors or potential clients deciding whether or not to trust your site.

Keywords, terms people search for on Google, also play a role. Studies show that domain names containing a popular and relevant keyword generate more clicks. Are you a gardener or a hairdresser? Then it’s smart to register a domain name like gardenertom.be.

Note: don’t stuff your domain name with keywords that don’t belong. Google has changed its SEO strategy several times over the years, meaning keywords in domain names no longer offer extra SEO advantage.Read more about it here.

Choose the best domain name with these tips

Time to think of and select a good domain name. Need a bit of help? These tips will guide you to the perfect domain name.

1. Keep it short and sweet

Short domain names are easier to remember, faster to type, and less prone to errors. The fewer characters, the better!

2. Avoid complicated words and phrases

Use simple, recognizable words. Avoid jargon, tricky spelling, or long sentences. You want visitors to immediately understand your brand name. That’s why a memorable domain name is key.

3. Make it easy to spell

A good domain should be easy to hear, remember, and type correctly. Phonetically clear names are more memorable and inspire more trust.

4. Include relevant keywords

A well-chosen keyword in your domain name can give your business a boost. Pick terms that match your product, service, or industry.

Interested visitors will associate your business faster with the content they’re looking for, and might click your URL more readily.

5. Avoid numbers and special characters

Hyphens, numbers, and other symbols make your domain name harder to communicate. These types of names can be confusing and are often typed incorrectly.

6. Choose the right domain extension

A .be or .nl domain extension is perfect for the local market, while .com is globally recognized. Niche extensions like .shop or .blog can highlight your specialization or expertise. A unique domain extension also makes you stand out.

7. Check availability and rights

Avoid legal issues: make sure your new domain name doesn’t infringe on a registered trademark. Use tools like the Combell domain checker to see if your chosen domain name is still available.

Before registering a domain, it’s always wise to check whether the name infringes on an existing trademark. Start with a search in official trademark registries, like the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP) or the European trademark register (EUIPO). This will tell you if your desired name is already trademarked in the same sector or region.

Also worth doing: search on Google and social media (like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn). You’ll quickly see if there are already businesses, brands, or accounts using the same name.

8. Think about the future

Choose a domain name that can grow with you. Avoid fads or trends that may feel outdated in a few years.

9. Test your domain name with others

Have friends or colleagues say or spell your name out loud. This will quickly show whether the name is clear or confusing. If your aunt mispronounces it immediately or your language-sensitive mother-in-law can’t spell it, you know something’s off!

10. Match your domain name to your brand

Create a domain name that complements your business name and reinforces your brand identity. Aim for the same name across social media platforms wherever possible.

11. What if your desired domain name is taken?

Get creative: add a word, use synonyms, or consider a different extension. Sometimes you can buy the domain name from the current owner.

12. Get help from a business name generator

A business name generator is the perfect tool if you’re looking for a good domain name for your new venture. Our advanced name generator helps you create and design unique names. Just explain what your business does, choose a language, and experiment with style and tone.

The AI-powered generator will then suggest business names tailored to your preferences, 10 unique ideas to kickstart your brand. Want to secure your favorite? Use our domain name checker to instantly see if the domain is available.

13. Choose wisely for your webshop or business site

For an online store, a clear and trustworthy domain name is essential. You can opt for a brand name (like coolblue.be) or a descriptive name with keywords (like cheaplaptops.be). Brand names are powerful for branding, while keywords help with online visibility. Often, a combination of both works best. Just make sure the name feels professional and relevant to your audience!

14. Avoid common mistakes

Overly long domain names are hard to remember and more prone to typos. Abbreviations or creative spelling (like "xpress" instead of "express") can cause confusion. Don’t just pick a name because it’s available, think strategically about your brand, target audience, and long-term goals. Always double-check the spelling, meaning, and possible double interpretations. A well-thought-out domain name prevents problems and saves you trouble down the road.

Why is a good domain name important? (photo)

Made your choice? Register your domain name with a reliable registrar

A domain name is your address on the internet. It’s the first step toward a successful business. So choose a reliable partner to register your domain name with.

There are plenty of online platforms where you can register a domain name. At Combell, your domain name is in safe hands, and you get many extras for free.

Custom mailboxes andemail addresses

With Combell, you can create as many email addresses as you like based on your domain name. For example: info@domainname.be, accounting@domainname.be, and sales@domainname.be. Decide whether to forward all emails to a single inbox or assign unique forwarding addresses to each.

When registering your domain name, choose a provider that supports your broader online journey—like Combell. Claiming your domain is just the beginning. We’re ready for what comes next!

Frequently asked questions about choosing a domain name