Introduction: Start Right Before You Design a Website
Before you even think about designing a website, there are two essential things you must have—a domain name and web hosting. Many beginners make the mistake of diving into design first, but without a solid foundation, your website journey can turn into a hassle. This guide walks you through what you truly need and the right way to start your website project.
1. The Two Essentials: Domain and Hosting
Every website is built on two pillars:
- Domain Name: The unique address of your website (like
yourbusiness.com) - Web Hosting: The space where your website’s files are stored
These might seem simple, but choosing the wrong provider or name can cause major issues later—especially when it’s time to renew or expand your business.
2. Domain Name: Choose with Vision
When selecting a domain, your long-term business goals matter.
- If you have a narrow focus (micro-niche):
Suppose your shop name is Shan Mobile Repairing and you only fix mobiles. In that case, a domain likeshanmobilerepairing.commakes sense. - But if you plan to grow your services in the future:
You might want a broader name likeshantechnologies.comorshanmobileservices.com—this allows you to expand without needing a new domain or branding.
👉 Pro Tip: Think long-term. Your domain should work even if your services expand in the future.
3. Domain Ownership: Don’t Make This Mistake
A common error is asking a developer or designer to buy your domain. Here’s what often happens:
- They buy it using their email ID
- You pay, but they own the domain
- Later, when you need to transfer or verify domain ownership (e.g., for business registration, legal issues, email setup), you face huge problems
✔️ Best Practice:
Always buy the domain using your own email ID. If you’re getting help from a designer, give them access to your email or create a shared account. This way, the domain is always under your control.
4. Hosting Services: Think Beyond Just Low Prices
Cheap hosting is tempting, but it comes with hidden traps. Many hosting companies:
- Offer free or cheap first-year deals (e.g., $1–$4/year)
- But renewal prices jump drastically ($24–$55/year or more)
- Lock you in, and transferring away becomes a hassle
💡 Example: A client got a domain for free with hosting. Later, they had to pay nearly triple the normal price just to renew it.
5. Where to Buy Domain and Hosting: Smart Choices
Choose trusted and transparent registrars. Here are some tips:
- Buy domains from international platforms like:
- Namecheap
- GoDaddy
- Google Domains
- Avoid packages with hidden renewal charges
- Check the renewal price before buying
- If you’re in Pakistan and prefer local services, make sure they offer full domain control
Conclusion: Own Your Foundation, Control Your Website
Designing a great website starts with owning your domain and hosting—the right way. Always use your own email ID, plan your domain name with a clear vision, and avoid cheap traps that cost you more in the long run.
Whether you’re launching a small niche site or building a future-ready business brand, take control from day one. It will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress later.