.com domain registration: prices and tips

A .com domain is the most recognizable domain extension in the world. Whether you run an international business or simply want the best recognition, a .com domain is often the first choice. In this guide, you'll learn everything about prices, registration, and tips.

What is a .com domain?

The .com domain is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) originally intended for commercial organizations. Today, anyone can register a .com. It's managed by Verisign under the supervision of ICANN, the international organization that manages the internet address system.

Why choose a .com domain?

A .com domain has unique advantages:

• Global recognition - Everyone knows .com
• Trust - Consumers associate .com with established businesses
• SEO-neutral - No geographic restrictions in search engines
• No restrictions - Anyone can register, no establishment requirements
• Professional appearance - Standard for international companies

Cost of a .com domain

Prices for .com domains vary significantly by registrar:

Note: Some registrars offer low first-year prices but high renewal costs. Always check both prices.

.com vs .nl domain

Tip: Register both extensions if your budget allows. This prevents competitors from claiming your brand name.

How to register a .com domain

Registering a .com domain is simple:

1. Check availability - Many .com names are taken, be creative
2. Choose a registrar - Compare prices and service
3. Register - Enter your details and pay
4. Configure - Set up DNS records for your hosting
5. Protect - Consider WHOIS privacy and auto-renewal

Tips for your .com domain

• Short and memorable - The shorter, the easier to remember
• Avoid hyphens - These make the domain harder to remember
• Check variants - Also register typos and alternative spellings
• Renew for multiple years - Prevents your domain from accidentally expiring

Alternatives to .com

If your desired .com name is taken, consider:

• .nl - Perfect for the Dutch market, read more
• .eu - Good for European businesses, read more
• .io - Popular with tech startups
• .co - Short .com alternative
• .net - Originally for networks, now general purpose

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to register a .com domain? Registration is almost instant, your domain is active within minutes.

Can I transfer my .com domain later? Yes, after 60 days you can transfer your domain to another registrar.

What is WHOIS privacy and do I need it? WHOIS privacy hides your personal information in the public database. Useful for privacy, but not required.

Is a .com better for SEO than .nl? For the Dutch market, .nl has a slight advantage. For international, .com is better.

Also check our domain price comparison for an overview of all extensions.