Purchasing a domain name is an exciting first step in establishing your online presence. However, it’s just the beginning of your digital journey. To help you get started with your web design and development, here are 6 essential steps to follow after buying a domain name.
6 Essential Steps to Follow After Buying a Domain Name
1. Get a Web Hosting Plan
The first step is to choose a reliable web hosting provider. Web hosting services allow you to store your website’s files and make them accessible online. There are various hosting options available, including:
- Web Hosting: Cost-effective and ideal for personal websites or blogs, starting at $2.49/month.
- Managed WordPress Hosting: Optimized for WordPress users, also starting at $2.49/month.
- VPS Hosting: Offers dedicated resources for high-traffic websites, starting at $4.99/month.
- Cloud Hosting: Best for high-traffic sites, starting at $7.59/month.
Need a reliable and affordable web host? Click here. Choosing the right plan is crucial to avoid frequent downtimes and ensure your website runs smoothly.
2. Connect Your Domain to the Right Nameservers
Once you have a hosting plan, you’ll need to connect your domain to the hosting provider’s nameservers. If you purchased your domain from a different registrar, update the nameservers to point to your hosting provider. This process can take up to 24 hours to take effect.
3. Create a Branded Email Address
A professional email address, such as [email protected], enhances your credibility. Most hosting plans come with email hosting options, allowing you to create custom email addresses easily. Consider premium services like Google Workspace for additional features.
4. Set Up Your Website or Online Store
Now it’s time to build your website or online store. You can opt for:
- WordPress: A user-friendly content management system that offers extensive customisation options.
- Website Builders: Drag-and-drop tools that simplify the website creation process, ideal for beginners. Examples of website builders are Elementor, Divi, and Thrive.
Choose a platform that suits your needs and follow the setup instructions to get your site live.
5. Submit Your Website to Search Engines
To increase your website’s visibility, submit it to search engines. Creating a sitemap helps search engines understand your site’s structure. If you’re using WordPress, plugins like Yoast SEO, RankMath, and AIO SEO can assist in generating sitemaps and optimising your content for search engines.
6. Promote or Sell Your Website
Finally, consider promoting your website through social media, email marketing, or paid advertising. Building an audience is crucial for your site’s success. Alternatively, if you decide to sell your website or domain, research the market and choose the right strategy to maximise your profit.
Need a website?
Are you ready to transform your online presence and attract more customers? I specialise in crafting stunning, user-friendly websites tailored to your unique vision. Are you launching a new brand or revamping an existing site? I am here to bring your ideas to life. Click here to contact me today for a free consultation, and let’s create a website that not only looks amazing but also drives results.
Conclusion
Purchasing a domain name is just the first step in your online journey. By following these six steps of getting a web hosting plan, connecting your domain, creating a branded email, setting up your website, submitting it to search engines, and promoting it, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a successful online presence.
