How to Get a Personalized Domain Name (URL)

When you’re ready to create your own website, you will want to rent a domain name for it. A domain name is the URL people will use, the address of your website, such as WilyWriters.NET or AngelMcCoy.com or Google.com. That is a domain name.

First, you want to make sure you’re not infringing on anyone’s copyright, so do a Google search on it. For example, a domain name like Thumper.com is going to infringe on Disney’s copyright, and they love to sue. Use your best judgment on this.

Good domain names:

  • Your author name with no dashes or spaces
  • The title of your series
  • The name of your world

Less good domain names:

  • The name of your novel – you want a domain name that will have longevity and you absolutely don’t want to be paying for a new one with every book you publish. You are renting the URL, so you will be paying a monthly/annual fee for as long as you have it.
  • Anything unrelated to your work. Remember your branding. What small phrase do you want people to remember you by. It’s probably not PartyGirl1973.com or BobbysMom.com, unless that’s the name of your series or the author name under which you’re publishing.

Visit a site that licenses domains. I have personal experience with and recommend these sites, in this order:

On their homepages, you’ll find a search field where you can test your chosen domain name and see if it’s still available. You may have to try several before you find one that’s free.

NOTE: If you’re building your website on a full-service site like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress.com, then you can purchase your domain name there. I’m not sure what they charge, but it will be more convenient for you. You don’t have to buy it with them, though. You can purchase it at Doteasy or any other site like that and use it at Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress.com.
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