{"/api/v1/guruguides-api/post/read:\"{\\\"slug\\\":\\\"what-is-a-custom-domain\\\"}\"":{"body":{"title":"What is a custom domain?","slug":"what-is-a-custom-domain","publicationDate":"August 10, 2023","postInfo":{"readTime":8},"excerpt":"Understand custom domains to include relevant keywords, use your business name, and grow your brand quicker online.","hero":{"title":"01 – Hero","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"heroMobile":{"title":"02 – Mobile","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/02-Mobile.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"}],"authors":[{"fullName":"Connor H.","slug":"connorharrison","firstName":"Connor","lastName":"Harrison","bio":"\u003cp>Connor is a writer and musician from Nottingham in the UK. Having worked in both writing sectors and music spaces, Connor landed at Namecheap as a Domains Copywriter in 2022. Along his journey, he’s delivered for clients such as NME Networks, Virtuoso, and Kormax. While he’s away from the written word, he’s trying to come up with ideas that ‘definitely won’t fail this time’ with his business partner Harry.\u003c/p>","avatar":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c827a0c8efbf257ccba16a7f2c4dd5c5?s=132&d=mm&r=g"}],"related":{"title":"Choosing a Domain","slug":"choosing-domain","subtitle":"Make a real name for yourself with our expert domain guides","description":"From choosing a great name to registering it, here’s how to tell the world who you are.","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","humanizeTitle":"For picking your www…","posts":[{"title":"Hosting vs. domain: Learning how they work together","slug":"hosting-vs-domain","publicationMonth":"May 2026","postInfo":{"readTime":6},"excerpt":"Find out how a website's hosting service and domain name work together and why it's often beneficial to purchase them together.","cardImage":{"title":"2022_GG_Hosting vs. domain – Learning how they work together_Article Image – 486×243","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/2022_GG_Hosting-vs.-domain-Learning-how-they-work-together_Article-Image-486x243-1.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-hosting","title":"Choosing Your Hosting","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"How to make your brand memorable, even on a tiny budget","slug":"make-your-brand-memorable","publicationMonth":"December 2025","postInfo":{"readTime":12},"excerpt":"This guide breaks down the most important small business branding tips that make sure you stand out, without a huge budget, so you can level the playing field with bigger competitors. Also discover low cost AI tools which will make things easier, and free up your time","cardImage":{"title":"2025_GURU_What Makes a Brand Memorable_Article Image – artboard","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2025/12/2025_GURU_What-Makes-a-Brand-Memorable_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"brand-messaging","title":"Brand Voice & Messaging","parentSlug":"web-design-branding","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"general-branding","title":"General Branding","parentSlug":"web-design-branding","type":"category"},{"slug":"general-marketing","title":"General Marketing","parentSlug":"online-marketing","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"},{"slug":"online-marketing","title":"Online Marketing","type":"category"},{"slug":"small-business-management","title":"Small Business Management","type":"category"},{"slug":"web-design-branding","title":"Web Design & Branding","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"Create a successful website – Simplified tips for small businesses","slug":"top-tips-creating-small-business-website","publicationMonth":"December 2024","postInfo":{"readTime":28},"excerpt":"This guide maps out the Nine Steps to create a website that makes your business stand out for all the right reasons. We’ve concentrated on giving you the Top Tips and Top Mistakes for each step, so you can take the right actions with no time waste.","cardImage":{"title":"2024_GURU_Create a Successful Website – Simplified Guide for Small Businesses_Article Image – artboard","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-–-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2024/12/FVsir2B9-2024_GURU_Create-a-Successful-Website-%E2%80%93-Simplified-Guide-for-Small-Businesses_Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"website-bulding","title":"Building a Website","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"business-tools-tips","title":"Business Tools & Tips","parentSlug":"small-business-management","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-hosting","title":"Choosing Your Hosting","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"creating-content","title":"Creating Content","parentSlug":"online-marketing","type":"category"},{"slug":"search-engine-marketing","title":"Search Engine Marketing","parentSlug":"online-marketing","type":"category"},{"slug":"security-privacy","title":"Security & Privacy","parentSlug":"small-business-management","type":"category"},{"slug":"small-business-management","title":"Small Business Management","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started","title":"Starting a Business","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"What is an email domain and how to choose one?","slug":"what-is-an-email-domain-and-how-to-choose-one","publicationMonth":"November 2024","postInfo":{"readTime":7},"excerpt":"A simple guide from Namecheap experts about how to Buy a Domain Email Address and how to choose one. ","cardImage":{"title":"Mobile","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"placeholder","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/12/Mobile.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"business-tools-tips","title":"Business Tools & Tips","parentSlug":"small-business-management","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"},{"slug":"small-business-management","title":"Small Business Management","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"The 10 best domain registrars of 2023","slug":"the-10-best-domain-registrars-dp","publicationMonth":"September 2023","postInfo":{"readTime":21},"excerpt":"We’ve researched the best domain registrars, so you’ll know the best place to choose and buy a domain name.","cardImage":{"title":"The 10 best domain registrars of 2022","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/03/The-10-best-domain-registrars-of-2022.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"buying-selling-domains","title":"Buying & Selling Domains","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"What is a business domain, and how can you get one today?","slug":"what-is-a-business-domain-name-and-how-to-get-it-dp","publicationMonth":"May 2023","postInfo":{"readTime":13},"excerpt":"Learn about the ins and outs of business domains and why they’re essential with this comprehensive breakdown.","cardImage":{"title":"What is a business domain 03 – Article","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/05/What-is-a-business-domain-03-Article.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"What is a .NET domain?","slug":"what-is-a-net-domain-name","publicationMonth":"February 2023","postInfo":{"readTime":9},"excerpt":"Here you’ll uncover what a .net domain extension is.","cardImage":{"title":"2022_GURU_What is net domain_Thumbnail CC #0d165a","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_What-is-net-domain_Thumbnail-CC-0d165a.svg","width":288,"height":310}]},"categories":[{"slug":"buying-selling-domains","title":"Buying & Selling Domains","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"How to choose a domain name: recommendations & tips","slug":"how-to-choose-the-best-domain-name-dp","publicationMonth":"February 2023","postInfo":{"readTime":16},"excerpt":"In this handy guide, you’ll discover top tips for finding the perfect domain name for your next online project.","cardImage":{"title":"2022_GURU_How to Choose the Best Domain","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/02/2022_GURU_How-to-Choose-the-Best-Domain.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"Registries, Registrars and Registrants: what's the difference?","slug":"registries-registrars-and-registrants-what-is-the-difference-dp","publicationMonth":"September 2021","postInfo":{"readTime":11},"excerpt":"The domain registration process is very straightforward. But the simple facade hides a fair bit of technical intricacy.","cardImage":{"title":"Registries, Registrars and Registrants- what’s the difference","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Registries-Registrars-and-Registrants-whats-the-difference.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"buying-selling-domains","title":"Buying & Selling Domains","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"Get your own domain name and build an online presence","slug":"why-do-you-need-a-personal-domain-name-dp","publicationMonth":"September 2021","postInfo":{"readTime":26},"excerpt":"Learn how to build your web presence with a personal domain name by reading our handy guide.","cardImage":{"title":"Get your own domain name and build an online presence","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2021/09/Get-your-own-domain-name-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"choosing-domain","title":"Choosing a Domain","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"What is Email Hosting?","slug":"what-is-email-hosting","publicationMonth":"June 2026","postInfo":{"readTime":18},"excerpt":"Find out what email hosting is and why you should set up email on your own domain. Email hosting is a service that runs email servers and helps you create a professional impact.","cardImage":{"title":"Article Image – artboard","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"placeholder","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2022/08/Article-Image-artboard.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"business-tools-tips","title":"Business Tools & Tips","parentSlug":"small-business-management","type":"category"},{"slug":"choosing-hosting","title":"Choosing Your Hosting","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"},{"slug":"small-business-management","title":"Small Business Management","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"},{"title":"How to start a food blog: 11 steps for quality content","slug":"how-to-start-a-food-blog","publicationMonth":"May 2026","postInfo":{"readTime":11},"excerpt":"Share your love of all things food with the world using these tips for choosing a food blog niche and publishing quality content.","cardImage":{"title":"How to start a food blog- 11 steps for quality content","alt":"","caption":"","description":"","sizes":[{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/03/How-to-start-a-food-blog-11-steps-for-quality-content.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"categories":[{"slug":"getting-started-online","title":"Getting Started Online","type":"category"},{"slug":"getting-started","title":"Starting a Business","parentSlug":"getting-started-online","type":"category"},{"slug":"web-design","title":"Web Design","parentSlug":"web-design-branding","type":"category"},{"slug":"web-design-branding","title":"Web Design & Branding","type":"category"}],"type":"guide"}]},"type":"guide","seo":{"title":"What is a custom domain? - Guru Guides - Namecheap","canonical":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/","breadcrumbs":[{"text":"Guru Guides","url":"/"},{"text":"Getting Started Online","url":"/category/getting-started-online/"},{"text":"Choosing a Domain","url":"/category/getting-started-online/choosing-domain/"},{"text":"What is a custom domain?","url":"/what-is-a-custom-domain/"}],"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/","url":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/","name":"What is a custom domain? - Guru Guides - Namecheap","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","datePublished":"2023-08-10T13:17:28+00:00","dateModified":"2023-09-18T16:01:13+00:00","author":{"@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/#/schema/person/ed43f138b9c32fc529737c98834d9ef3"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/#primaryimage","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg","contentUrl":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/01-Hero.svg"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/#website","url":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/","name":"Guru Guides - Namecheap","description":"Just another Namecheap site","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/#/schema/person/ed43f138b9c32fc529737c98834d9ef3","name":"Connor Harrison","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/#/schema/person/image/4e1398f18cb103ba02e43843a95a775a","url":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c827a0c8efbf257ccba16a7f2c4dd5c5?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/c827a0c8efbf257ccba16a7f2c4dd5c5?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Connor Harrison"},"description":"Connor is a writer and musician from Nottingham in the UK. Having worked in both writing sectors and music spaces, Connor landed at Namecheap as a Domains Copywriter in 2022. Along his journey, he’s delivered for clients such as NME Networks, Virtuoso, and Kormax. While he’s away from the written word, he’s trying to come up with ideas that ‘definitely won’t fail this time’ with his business partner Harry.","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-harrison-8b4484207/","https://soundcloud.com/user-293184084"],"url":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/author/connorharrison/"}]},"meta":{"description":{"content":"","name":"description"},"siteName":{"content":"Guru Guides - Namecheap","name":"site_name"},"siteUrl":{"content":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/","name":"site_url"},"metaDescription":{"content":"","name":"meta_description"},"robots":{"content":"index,follow,max-snippet:-1,max-image-preview:large,max-video-preview:-1","name":"robots"},"ogDescription":{"content":"Understand custom domains to include relevant keywords, use your business name, and grow your brand quicker online.","attributes":{"property":"og:description"}},"ogEnabled":{"content":"1","attributes":{"property":"og:enabled"}},"ogArticleModifiedTime":{"content":"2023-09-18T16:01:13+00:00","attributes":{"property":"og:article:modified_time"}},"ogArticlePublishedTime":{"content":"2023-08-10T13:17:28+00:00","attributes":{"property":"og:article:published_time"}},"ogImages":{"content":"","attributes":{"property":"og:image"}},"ogSiteName":{"content":"Guru Guides - Namecheap","attributes":{"property":"og:site_name"}},"ogTitle":{"content":"What is a custom domain? - Guru Guides - Namecheap","attributes":{"property":"og:title"}},"ogType":{"content":"article","attributes":{"property":"og:type"}},"ogUrl":{"content":"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain/","attributes":{"property":"og:url"}},"twitterTitle":{"content":"","name":"twitter:title"},"twitterDescription":{"content":"","name":"twitter:description"},"twitterImage":{"content":"","name":"twitter:image"},"twitterCreator":{"content":"","name":"twitter:creator"},"twitterSite":{"content":"","name":"twitter:site"},"twitterCard":{"content":"summary_large_image","name":"twitter:card"}}},"faqs":[],"content":[{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>When it comes to building an online presence, it all starts with a domain name. It’s your personal address, where everyone can discover the content you’ve created.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>When it comes to building an online presence, it all starts with a domain name. It’s your personal address, where everyone can discover the content you’ve created.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>A “custom” domain is one that includes your personal or business brand name. This differs from a “generic” domain, which only contains words or phrases.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>A “custom” domain is one that includes your personal or business brand name. This differs from a “generic” domain, which only contains words or phrases.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>For example, imagine you run a cupcake shop called “Cupcakes by Sam.” A fitting custom domain name for your business could be \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>. It quickly tells the world that you are Sam, and you bake cupcakes.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>For example, imagine you run a cupcake shop called “Cupcakes by Sam.” A fitting custom domain name for your business could be \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>. It quickly tells the world that you are Sam, and you bake cupcakes.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about custom domains, from the definition, to the benefits, and beyond.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about custom domains, from the definition, to the benefits, and beyond.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"fc12621c-88e6-4375-8dcf-d9c762b03a4e"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-the-definition-of-a-custom-domain\">What is the definition of a “custom domain”?\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-the-definition-of-a-custom-domain\">What is the definition of a “custom domain”?\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>As you already know, a custom domain is a personalized domain name that includes the brand name of a business or personal brand. It may also include keywords that reflect the nature of the site.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>As you already know, a custom domain is a personalized domain name that includes the brand name of a business or personal brand. It may also include keywords that reflect the nature of the site.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"nc-blocks/domain-search","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/results/\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Search for a domain name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a domain name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Search\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/results/\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Search for a domain name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a domain name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Search\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Before we continue, let’s get back to basics and remind ourselves \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-definition-what-is-a-domain-name/\">what a domain name is\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Before we continue, let’s get back to basics and remind ourselves \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-definition-what-is-a-domain-name/\">what a domain name is\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If you’re anything like me, you have at least five tabs in your browser bar right now. This is perfect for quickly understanding domains and how to identify a custom domain.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If you’re anything like me, you have at least five tabs in your browser bar right now. This is perfect for quickly understanding domains and how to identify a custom domain.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>In the browser bar above this article, you’ll see \u003cem>namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/\u003c/em>. This long collection of words includes our domain name, \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em>. Interestingly, it is also a custom domain, because Namecheap is the name of our brand and business.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>In the browser bar above this article, you’ll see \u003cem>namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/\u003c/em>. This long collection of words includes our domain name, \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em>. Interestingly, it is also a custom domain, because Namecheap is the name of our brand and business.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Cycle through the other tabs you have open, and you might see domain names like \u003cem>youtube.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>google.com\u003c/em>, and \u003cem>netflix.com\u003c/em>. These are also all custom domains.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Cycle through the other tabs you have open, and you might see domain names like \u003cem>youtube.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>google.com\u003c/em>, and \u003cem>netflix.com\u003c/em>. These are also all custom domains.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Generic domain names differ from custom domains and include generic words or phrases. For example, instead of \u003cem>youtube.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>google.com\u003c/em>, and \u003cem>netflix.com\u003c/em>, the generic domains could be \u003cem>shortvideos.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>searchengine\u003c/em>.com, and \u003cem>filmsandtvshows.com\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Generic domain names differ from custom domains and include generic words or phrases. For example, instead of \u003cem>youtube.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>google.com\u003c/em>, and \u003cem>netflix.com\u003c/em>, the generic domains could be \u003cem>shortvideos.com\u003c/em>, \u003cem>searchengine\u003c/em>.com, and \u003cem>filmsandtvshows.com\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If you’re wondering why we need domain names, let’s sidestep to a brief technical lesson about internet protocol (IP) addresses.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If you’re wondering why we need domain names, let’s sidestep to a brief technical lesson about internet protocol (IP) addresses.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Every website on the Internet is identified by an IP address, made up of a unique series of numbers. The IP address is like a dedicated mailbox address and helps computers and devices know where to send and receive information. It means you get connected to the site you want to visit.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Every website on the Internet is identified by an IP address, made up of a unique series of numbers. The IP address is like a dedicated mailbox address and helps computers and devices know where to send and receive information. It means you get connected to the site you want to visit.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>We use domain names instead because the series of numbers is so long and difficult to remember. So, if you want to visit your favorite domain registrar, you’ll just type \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em> into the browser bar. Just like when you scroll down your phone’s contact list to a saved contact labeled “Taxi”, it brings up the number for your local taxi company. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>We use domain names instead because the series of numbers is so long and difficult to remember. So, if you want to visit your favorite domain registrar, you’ll just type \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em> into the browser bar. Just like when you scroll down your phone’s contact list to a saved contact labeled “Taxi”, it brings up the number for your local taxi company. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>And now, back to custom domains.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>And now, back to custom domains.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"a379cbe4-988a-4705-b12e-b4e2246d8727"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-is-owning-a-custom-domain-important-for-online-campaigns\">Why is owning a custom domain important for online campaigns?\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-is-owning-a-custom-domain-important-for-online-campaigns\">Why is owning a custom domain important for online campaigns?\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Whatever your reason for getting online, a custom domain name will help define you as a brand. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Whatever your reason for getting online, a custom domain name will help define you as a brand. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Cast your mind back to \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>. Including the keywords “cupcake” and “sam” means that your web visitor will have no illusion about who and what they’re about to learn from your website content. But that’s just for starters. There are many more benefits to owning a custom domain.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Cast your mind back to \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>. Including the keywords “cupcake” and “sam” means that your web visitor will have no illusion about who and what they’re about to learn from your website content. But that’s just for starters. There are many more benefits to owning a custom domain.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"91b0dfb9-3389-45a1-a76e-e3d2307933a2"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain\">The benefits of using a custom domain\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain\">The benefits of using a custom domain\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"","id":11677,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","title":"04 - The benefits of using a custom domain","description":"","alt":"","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11677\"/>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/04-The-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11677\"/>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Next, we’ll dive into the plus points of creating a custom domain name for your business and personal brand. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Next, we’ll dive into the plus points of creating a custom domain name for your business and personal brand. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Branding: Promotes brand consistency and recognition\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Branding: Promotes brand consistency and recognition\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>From building a blog with a custom domain to a huge video-sharing platform, a domain name can help reinforce your identity as an individual or business. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>From building a blog with a custom domain to a huge video-sharing platform, a domain name can help reinforce your identity as an individual or business. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>You’ll constantly shout about your custom domain, whether over SMS or on a giant billboard in Times Square, New York — the more your domain name is seen, the more memorable and recognizable your brand becomes. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>You’ll constantly shout about your custom domain, whether over SMS or on a giant billboard in Times Square, New York — the more your domain name is seen, the more memorable and recognizable your brand becomes. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Customer Trust: Encourages customers who trust your brand to click through to your site\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Customer Trust: Encourages customers who trust your brand to click through to your site\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If you’re a fast-food burger fan, there may be specific burger joints you trust over others. The same goes for website addresses. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If you’re a fast-food burger fan, there may be specific burger joints you trust over others. The same goes for website addresses. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>You’re probably reading this article because you’re an avid Namecheap customer. Glance up at the browser bar again at \u003cem>namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/\u003c/em>. As a loyal fan, you know that seeing \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em> means you’re about to digest a brilliant guide from a brand you love and trust. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>You’re probably reading this article because you’re an avid Namecheap customer. Glance up at the browser bar again at \u003cem>namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/\u003c/em>. As a loyal fan, you know that seeing \u003cem>namecheap.com\u003c/em> means you’re about to digest a brilliant guide from a brand you love and trust. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Discoverability: Improves search engine optimization (SEO) \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Discoverability: Improves search engine optimization (SEO) \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen. \u003cbr>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen. \u003cbr>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Discoverability: Improves search engine optimization (SEO) \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Discoverability: Improves search engine optimization (SEO) \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"f2101955-63a1-4c54-ad4d-3bf1b571ff7c"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-a-generic-domain\">What is a generic domain?\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-a-generic-domain\">What is a generic domain?\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"","id":11678,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","title":"05 - What is a generic domain","description":"","alt":"","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11678\"/>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/05-What-is-a-generic-domain.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11678\"/>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>While a custom domain is personalized and unique to a personal or business brand, a generic domain is more broad. For example, instead of the custom domain \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>, generic domains look like the following:\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>While a custom domain is personalized and unique to a personal or business brand, a generic domain is more broad. For example, instead of the custom domain \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com\u003c/em>, generic domains look like the following:\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cem>buycupcakes.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cem>buycupcakes.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cem>cupcakebakingtips.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cem>cupcakebakingtips.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cem>cupcakerecipes.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cem>cupcakerecipes.com\u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\n\n\n\n\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\n\n",null,"\n\n",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>A generic domain is more descriptive and potentially attracts a wider audience.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>A generic domain is more descriptive and potentially attracts a wider audience.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>However, there can be some disadvantages to choosing a generic domain over a custom domain, which we’ll learn about next.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>However, there can be some disadvantages to choosing a generic domain over a custom domain, which we’ll learn about next.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"nc-blocks/domain-search","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/results/\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Search for a domain name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a domain name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Search\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-nc-blocks-domain-search\">\u003cform class=\"gb-search\" target=\"_blank\" action=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/results/\" method=\"GET\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-search__wrap\">\u003cinput type=\"hidden\" value=\"beast\"/>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip gb-tooltip--sm\" data-gb-tooltip-placement=\"bottom-start\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__toggle\">\u003cinput type=\"search\" name=\"domain\" class=\"gb-search__field\" placeholder=\"Search for a domain name\"/>\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__wrap\">\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__arrow\">\u003c/div>\u003cdiv class=\"gb-tooltip__content\">Please enter a domain name.\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003c/div>\u003cspan class=\"gb-search__bg\">\u003c/span>\u003c/div>\u003cbutton type=\"submit\" class=\"gb-search__submit gb-btn gb-btn--primary\">Search\u003c/button>\u003c/form>\u003c/div>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"d06a998b-77c9-41fd-ba8c-11fd922aa652"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-consider-when-you-choose-a-generic-domain\">What to consider when you choose a generic domain\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-to-consider-when-you-choose-a-generic-domain\">What to consider when you choose a generic domain\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Before you get too excited about generic domains and open up your wallet, let’s take a moment to consider the following points:\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Before you get too excited about generic domains and open up your wallet, let’s take a moment to consider the following points:\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Branding: Are you missing out?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Branding: Are you missing out?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If your domain name isn’t personalized to a specific brand, you could miss out on the chance to build brand recognition for your business. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If your domain name isn’t personalized to a specific brand, you could miss out on the chance to build brand recognition for your business. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Availability: Is your domain taken?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Availability: Is your domain taken?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Generic domains are popular, and because of this, your dream domain may already have been snapped up by another person or business.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Generic domains are popular, and because of this, your dream domain may already have been snapped up by another person or business.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Cost: Is there an additional cost when you buy a custom domain?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Cost: Is there an additional cost when you buy a custom domain?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>You may find that generic domains cost more because they contain the keywords that everyone wants. However, the price of any domain, custom or not, depends on a number of factors, such as the popularity of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/full-tld-list/\">top-level domain (TLD)\u003c/a> and the keywords you want to use. Check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/\">domain prices\u003c/a> list to get a better understanding.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>You may find that generic domains cost more because they contain the keywords that everyone wants. However, the price of any domain, custom or not, depends on a number of factors, such as the popularity of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/full-tld-list/\">top-level domain (TLD)\u003c/a> and the keywords you want to use. Check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/\">domain prices\u003c/a> list to get a better understanding.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/list","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[{"blockName":"core/list-item","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Ease: Is using a generic domain easier?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Ease: Is using a generic domain easier?\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n"]}],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cul>\u003c/ul>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cul>",null,"\u003c/ul>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>When you build a site offering generic content, for example, cupcake recipes, a generic domain like \u003cem>cupcakerecipes.com\u003c/em> is a sensible, easy choice. Alternatively, if you want to grow an exciting brand to attract loyal paying customers, a custom domain like \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com \u003c/em>is more suitable.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>When you build a site offering generic content, for example, cupcake recipes, a generic domain like \u003cem>cupcakerecipes.com\u003c/em> is a sensible, easy choice. Alternatively, if you want to grow an exciting brand to attract loyal paying customers, a custom domain like \u003cem>cupcakesbysam.com \u003c/em>is more suitable.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"737c73f0-d74d-4ea6-97c5-f2bdc46e43c2"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-much-does-a-custom-domain-cost\">How much does a custom domain cost?\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-much-does-a-custom-domain-cost\">How much does a custom domain cost?\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If you’re a startup looking to save money, scary thoughts of “How much is a custom domain?” may have you reaching for a calculator and biting your nails. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If you’re a startup looking to save money, scary thoughts of “How much is a custom domain?” may have you reaching for a calculator and biting your nails. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>As we already know, the cost entirely depends on various factors. This includes the type of TLD you want to use, how long you want to register it for, and the domain registrar you are buying it from. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>As we already know, the cost entirely depends on various factors. This includes the type of TLD you want to use, how long you want to register it for, and the domain registrar you are buying it from. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>In general, the cost of a domain name can range from \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/promos/99-cent-domain-names/\">as little as $0.99\u003c/a> to as much as $50 or more. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>In general, the cost of a domain name can range from \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/promos/99-cent-domain-names/\">as little as $0.99\u003c/a> to as much as $50 or more. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"bbeece53-5d0c-427b-b340-3e231d52b5bc"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence\">How to get a custom domain and build an online presence\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence\">How to get a custom domain and build an online presence\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/image","attrs":{"caption":"","id":11679,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","title":"06 - How to get a custom domain and build an online presence","description":"","alt":"","sizes":[{"name":"thumbnail","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":150,"height":150},{"name":"medium","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":300,"height":300},{"name":"medium_large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":768,"height":1},{"name":"large","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1024,"height":1024},{"name":"1536x1536","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"2048x2048","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1},{"name":"full","url":"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg","width":1,"height":1}]},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11679\"/>\u003c/figure>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003cimg src=\"https://minio.production.cloudplatform.tech/wp-guru-guides-uploads/2023/08/06-How-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence.svg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11679\"/>\u003c/figure>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>By now, you understand the many benefits of a custom domain and itching to get one. Good news — you can achieve your dream in just a few steps.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>By now, you understand the many benefits of a custom domain and itching to get one. Good news — you can achieve your dream in just a few steps.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Visit a domain name registrar to check availability\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Visit a domain name registrar to check availability\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>First things first, work out if your dream domain is available. Head to a registrar (the best one being \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com\">Namecheap\u003c/a>, of course!) and \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-name-search/\">check domain name availability\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>First things first, work out if your dream domain is available. Head to a registrar (the best one being \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com\">Namecheap\u003c/a>, of course!) and \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-name-search/\">check domain name availability\u003c/a>. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Choose a company to host your domain\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Choose a company to host your domain\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Now select a \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-10-best-domain-registrars-dp/\">leading registrar\u003c/a> or web hosting service to manage the hosts, files, and content that make up your website. At Namecheap, we have a range of \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/hosting/\">hosting plans\u003c/a> to suit any budget (hint, hint).\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Now select a \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/guru-guides/the-10-best-domain-registrars-dp/\">leading registrar\u003c/a> or web hosting service to manage the hosts, files, and content that make up your website. At Namecheap, we have a range of \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/hosting/\">hosting plans\u003c/a> to suit any budget (hint, hint).\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Register (buy) your domain name\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Register (buy) your domain name\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>When you get a custom domain, you must register it before anyone else does and then wait for it to be processed.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>When you get a custom domain, you must register it before anyone else does and then wait for it to be processed.\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Alternatively, transfer it\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Alternatively, transfer it\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>If your domain is already with a registrar, you can always \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/transfer/\">transfer your domain\u003c/a> to another. You may want to transfer because you’ve found a registrar that offers a better price, service, or tools — whatever the reason, it’s easy to do. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>If your domain is already with a registrar, you can always \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/transfer/\">transfer your domain\u003c/a> to another. You may want to transfer because you’ve found a registrar that offers a better price, service, or tools — whatever the reason, it’s easy to do. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>5. Use a website builder and build a website\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>5. Use a website builder and build a website\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>The last step is to build a website. There are plenty of intuitive website builders to choose from, and it’s a great way to build a professional or business site without worrying about being a professional coder. Here at Namecheap, we offer \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/site-maker/\">Sitemaker\u003c/a>, which allows you to build a website in minutes. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>The last step is to build a website. There are plenty of intuitive website builders to choose from, and it’s a great way to build a professional or business site without worrying about being a professional coder. Here at Namecheap, we offer \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/visual/site-maker/\">Sitemaker\u003c/a>, which allows you to build a website in minutes. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/heading","attrs":{"stickyMenuId":"fc8d3a5b-05c8-43fe-80a7-1698d87f3c7e"},"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"go-forth-and-register-a-custom-domain\">Go forth and register a custom domain\u003c/h2>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"go-forth-and-register-a-custom-domain\">Go forth and register a custom domain\u003c/h2>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Well, that’s all, folks! You’ve now learned everything you need to know about custom domains. \u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Well, that’s all, folks! You’ve now learned everything you need to know about custom domains. \u003c/p>\n"]},{"blockName":"core/paragraph","attrs":[],"innerBlocks":[],"innerHTML":"\n\u003cp>Head to our \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-name-search/\">domain name search\u003c/a> to secure one today.\u003c/p>\n","innerContent":["\n\u003cp>Head to our \u003ca href=\"https://www.namecheap.com/domains/domain-name-search/\">domain name search\u003c/a> to secure one today.\u003c/p>\n"]}],"stickyMenu":[{"label":"What is the definition of a “custom domain”?","labelEdited":"What is the definition of a “custom domain”?","level":2,"anchor":"what-is-the-definition-of-a-custom-domain"},{"label":"Why is owning a custom domain important for online campaigns?","labelEdited":"Why is owning a custom domain important for online campaigns?","level":2,"anchor":"why-is-owning-a-custom-domain-important-for-online-campaigns"},{"label":"The benefits of using a custom domain","labelEdited":"The benefits of using a custom domain","level":2,"anchor":"the-benefits-of-using-a-custom-domain"},{"label":"What is a generic domain?","labelEdited":"What is a generic domain?","level":2,"anchor":"what-is-a-generic-domain"},{"label":"What to consider when you choose a generic domain","labelEdited":"What to consider when you choose a generic domain","level":2,"anchor":"what-to-consider-when-you-choose-a-generic-domain"},{"label":"How much does a custom domain cost?","labelEdited":"How much does a custom domain cost?","level":2,"anchor":"how-much-does-a-custom-domain-cost"},{"label":"How to get a custom domain and build an online presence","labelEdited":"How to get a custom domain and build an online presence","level":2,"anchor":"how-to-get-a-custom-domain-and-build-an-online-presence"},{"label":"Go forth and register a custom domain","labelEdited":"Go forth and register a custom domain","level":2,"anchor":"go-forth-and-register-a-custom-domain"}]},"status":200,"statusText":"OK"}}
When it comes to building an online presence, it all starts with a domain name. It’s your personal address, where everyone can discover the content you’ve created.
A “custom” domain is one that includes your personal or business brand name. This differs from a “generic” domain, which only contains words or phrases.
For example, imagine you run a cupcake shop called “Cupcakes by Sam.” A fitting custom domain name for your business could be cupcakesbysam.com. It quickly tells the world that you are Sam, and you bake cupcakes.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about custom domains, from the definition, to the benefits, and beyond.
As you already know, a custom domain is a personalized domain name that includes the brand name of a business or personal brand. It may also include keywords that reflect the nature of the site.
Before we continue, let’s get back to basics and remind ourselves what a domain name is.
If you’re anything like me, you have at least five tabs in your browser bar right now. This is perfect for quickly understanding domains and how to identify a custom domain.
In the browser bar above this article, you’ll see namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/. This long collection of words includes our domain name, namecheap.com. Interestingly, it is also a custom domain, because Namecheap is the name of our brand and business.
Cycle through the other tabs you have open, and you might see domain names like youtube.com, google.com, and netflix.com. These are also all custom domains.
Generic domain names differ from custom domains and include generic words or phrases. For example, instead of youtube.com, google.com, and netflix.com, the generic domains could be shortvideos.com, searchengine.com, and filmsandtvshows.com.
If you’re wondering why we need domain names, let’s sidestep to a brief technical lesson about internet protocol (IP) addresses.
Every website on the Internet is identified by an IP address, made up of a unique series of numbers. The IP address is like a dedicated mailbox address and helps computers and devices know where to send and receive information. It means you get connected to the site you want to visit.
We use domain names instead because the series of numbers is so long and difficult to remember. So, if you want to visit your favorite domain registrar, you’ll just type namecheap.com into the browser bar. Just like when you scroll down your phone’s contact list to a saved contact labeled “Taxi”, it brings up the number for your local taxi company.
And now, back to custom domains.
Whatever your reason for getting online, a custom domain name will help define you as a brand.
Cast your mind back to cupcakesbysam.com. Including the keywords “cupcake” and “sam” means that your web visitor will have no illusion about who and what they’re about to learn from your website content. But that’s just for starters. There are many more benefits to owning a custom domain.
Next, we’ll dive into the plus points of creating a custom domain name for your business and personal brand.
From building a blog with a custom domain to a huge video-sharing platform, a domain name can help reinforce your identity as an individual or business.
You’ll constantly shout about your custom domain, whether over SMS or on a giant billboard in Times Square, New York — the more your domain name is seen, the more memorable and recognizable your brand becomes.
If you’re a fast-food burger fan, there may be specific burger joints you trust over others. The same goes for website addresses.
You’re probably reading this article because you’re an avid Namecheap customer. Glance up at the browser bar again at namecheap.com/guru-guides/what-is-a-custom-domain-dp/. As a loyal fan, you know that seeing namecheap.com means you’re about to digest a brilliant guide from a brand you love and trust.
Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen.
Optimizing your brand for search engines is all part of the Internet game. And, if your custom domain matches what people are searching for, search engines will put you closer to the top of the results page — a win-win. The higher your rank, the easier you’re found, and the more you’ll be seen.
While a custom domain is personalized and unique to a personal or business brand, a generic domain is more broad. For example, instead of the custom domain cupcakesbysam.com, generic domains look like the following:
A generic domain is more descriptive and potentially attracts a wider audience.
However, there can be some disadvantages to choosing a generic domain over a custom domain, which we’ll learn about next.
Before you get too excited about generic domains and open up your wallet, let’s take a moment to consider the following points:
If your domain name isn’t personalized to a specific brand, you could miss out on the chance to build brand recognition for your business.
Generic domains are popular, and because of this, your dream domain may already have been snapped up by another person or business.
You may find that generic domains cost more because they contain the keywords that everyone wants. However, the price of any domain, custom or not, depends on a number of factors, such as the popularity of the top-level domain (TLD) and the keywords you want to use. Check out our domain prices list to get a better understanding.
When you build a site offering generic content, for example, cupcake recipes, a generic domain like cupcakerecipes.com is a sensible, easy choice. Alternatively, if you want to grow an exciting brand to attract loyal paying customers, a custom domain like cupcakesbysam.com is more suitable.
If you’re a startup looking to save money, scary thoughts of “How much is a custom domain?” may have you reaching for a calculator and biting your nails.
As we already know, the cost entirely depends on various factors. This includes the type of TLD you want to use, how long you want to register it for, and the domain registrar you are buying it from.
In general, the cost of a domain name can range from as little as $0.99 to as much as $50 or more.
By now, you understand the many benefits of a custom domain and itching to get one. Good news — you can achieve your dream in just a few steps.
1. Visit a domain name registrar to check availability
First things first, work out if your dream domain is available. Head to a registrar (the best one being Namecheap, of course!) and check domain name availability.
2. Choose a company to host your domain
Now select a leading registrar or web hosting service to manage the hosts, files, and content that make up your website. At Namecheap, we have a range of hosting plans to suit any budget (hint, hint).
3. Register (buy) your domain name
When you get a custom domain, you must register it before anyone else does and then wait for it to be processed.
4. Alternatively, transfer it
If your domain is already with a registrar, you can always transfer your domain to another. You may want to transfer because you’ve found a registrar that offers a better price, service, or tools — whatever the reason, it’s easy to do.
5. Use a website builder and build a website
The last step is to build a website. There are plenty of intuitive website builders to choose from, and it’s a great way to build a professional or business site without worrying about being a professional coder. Here at Namecheap, we offer Sitemaker, which allows you to build a website in minutes.
Well, that’s all, folks! You’ve now learned everything you need to know about custom domains.
Head to our domain name search to secure one today.
Connor is a writer and musician from Nottingham in the UK. Having worked in both writing sectors and music spaces, Connor landed at Namecheap as a Domains Copywriter in 2022. Along his journey, he’s delivered for clients such as NME Networks, Virtuoso, and Kormax. While he’s away from the written word, he’s trying to come up with ideas that ‘definitely won’t fail this time’ with his business partner Harry.
More content by Connor H.
From choosing a great name to registering it, here’s how to tell the world who you are.
guideRead now
6 minsguideRead now12 minsguideRead now28 mins
guideRead now7 minsguideRead now21 minsguideRead now13 minsguideRead now9 minsguideRead now16 minsguideRead now11 minsguideRead now26 mins
guideRead now18 minsguideRead now11 mins
Get all the latest offers, articles, and industry news straight to your mailbox every month.
Need help? We're always here for you.