Domain Name Search

What is a domain name?

Domain names were created to make IP addresses easy to remember. Every computer has an IP address assigned to it – much like a street address. But instead of having to memorize each IP address number, we assign domain names to these numbers so we can easily remember them. The domain name system, or DNS, takes domain names and translates them into their IP addresses so that computers can communicate with one another.

When you enter a domain name into your web browser, the browser simply uses that domain to locate its corresponding IP address and then shows you the website associated with it. If you own a business, GoDaddy can help you find a domain name that best suits the business so you can easily promote your website.

But GoDaddy isn't just about domain names. We've got everything you need to get online. From cheap web hosting and email hosting to building your website and attracting new customers, GoDaddy has you covered.

A domain name, like www.coolexample.com, is a lot like a street address for a house or business. Let's use the White House as an example. The street address, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, is an exact location — like an IP address. You might not know the exact street address, but when you visit Washington, D.C., you can tell your driver that you want to visit the White House and still get there. This is how a domain name is used: It's an easy way to reach the exact location of a website without having to remember its numeric address.

A domain name consists of, at least, a top-level and a second-level domain. A top-level domain (TLD) is the part of the domain name located to the right of the dot ("."). The most common TLDs are .com, .net, and .org. Many domains, also called extensions, can be registered by anyone, like .com, .net, and .org.

A second-level domain (SLD) is the portion of the domain name that is located immediately to the left of the dot and domain name extension. For example, the SLD in coolexample.com is cool example.

A domain name represents a physical point on the Internet — an IP address. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) governs coordination of the links between IP addresses and domain names across the Internet. With this standardized coordination, you can find websites on the Internet by entering domain names instead of IP addresses into your Web browser.

How do domains work?

When visitors enter your domain name into a web browser, the browser uses your domain name to find the associated IP address and, therefore, the website. People use domain names instead of IP addresses because it is easier to remember a name rather than a series of numbers.

Your domain name and its associated IP address are stored in a common database along with every other domain and associated IP address that are accessible via the Internet.

How do I search for a domain name?

1. Go to the domain search bar at the top of this page.

2. In the search field, enter the domain name you want to register, and then select the domain name extension from the list.

3. Click Search.

If the domain name you requested is already registered, we provide available alternatives. For example, you might be able to select a .co or .me domain extension, rather than .com. Or you could register www.coolexample.info instead of www.coolexample.com.

If the domain name is available, follow the instructions to complete the checkout process. Be sure to include valid contact information for each contact. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the governing body for domain names, requires valid contact information for the registrant, the technical contact, the person or company responsible for billing, and the administrative contact). If you enter false information, your domain name can be canceled.

Can I get help with my domain name search?

Absolutely! Our domain name search tool can assist you by offering suggestions and alternatives to any domain you search. If you’re still having issues or just want some help, our world-class  GoDaddy Guides are available to help lead you toward the best domain name possible for your business or personal use.

Can I choose any domain name?

A handful of domains will have restrictions on them, which means you can only purchase them if you meet certain criteria or have authorization (some examples are .gov, .edu. and .mil). But most extensions are available to everyone. In fact, most country code Top Level Domains (ccTLDs) are available for anyone to purchase, even if you don’t reside in the country in question.

Is there a limit on how long or short my domain can be?

Typically, there is a limit to domain length, with the minimum being 1 character and the maximum being 63 characters. Ideally, you want your domain name to accurately reflect your brand, whether it’s personal or business-oriented. We provide some guidelines for picking out a great domain name — whatever your situation may be.

Do I need an SSL certificate to register a domain name?

No, but it’s strongly advisable if you plan on using your domain name for a website. An SSL certificate encrypts any data visitors share on your website. It’s mandatory if you’re accepting online payments and Google will tag any site without an SSL certificate as “Not Secure.”

Can I purchase any domain extension?

A handful of domains will have restrictions on them, which means you can only purchase them if you meet certain criteria or have authorization (some examples are .gov, .edu. and .mil). But most extensions are available to everyone. In fact, most country code Top Level Domains (ccTLDs) are available for anyone to purchase, even if you don’t reside in the country in question.

How many domain names can I buy?

There’s no limit, so go ahead and grab as many as you like. Some people buying a domain name will grab those similar to the one they love. It can help them expand their presence on the web and even protect their great ideas from imitators.

How much does domain registration cost?

The cost of registering a domain name depends on the extension. Many domain extensions cost as little as $10.00, and some are even cheaper. On the other hand, if you want to purchase a .auto domain name, be prepared to pay close to $40,000.00!

How long does my domain name registration last?

How long your domain registration lasts can vary depending on the domain you purchase. Many domain name registrars will allow customers to register domains for 10 years at a time, but typically customers will register domains for one to three years.

What is domain privacy?

With a standard domain registration, ICANN requires some of your personal information to be published. However, with our Domain Privacy, you won’t ever need to worry about your contact information becoming publicly available. It’s super easy to add this feature to most domains and to display proxy information instead. We have your best interests at heart when it comes to privacy.

How do I renew my domain?

If you want to extend your registration, it’s easy to renew your domain with GoDaddy. You can choose to manually renew or set up auto-renewal, so you ensure it stays registered to you.

Is GoDaddy accredited by ICANN?

Yes, GoDaddy is accredited by ICANN, so you can rest assured that your domain will be legit.