Our advice is always, if possible, try to get the ‘.com’ domain name, particularly if your site will have a global audience.

 

A country domain name, such as ‘.co.uk’, is okay if you’re only targeting a national market, such as supporters of Sheffield United FC.  But be very aware that a national URL (.co.uk, .ie, etc.) is a disaster if you want US subscribers. Only pick a national URL ending if you are 100% sure you will NEVER want to expand your website to reach a global audience.

 

If you can’t get the ‘.com’ name, ‘.net’ is the next best global name.

 

If you are planning on creating an association or society, then ‘.org’ is fine.

 

We would also recommend trying to buy as many of the domain names for your chosen name as you can before you launch. If your site is successful, you will suddenly find competitors, affiliates or disreputable people buying the similar domains to exploit your success.

 

The main domain names to grab are: