How to Register a Domain for Your Online Store
Launching an online store is an exciting journey into the world of e-commerce. One of the key steps in this process is registering a domain. This unique web address not only identifies your store, but also makes it accessible to potential customers. In this article, we’ll explore step by step how to register a domain for your online store and how to point it to Shopify’s nameservers. Also, let’s look at two popular hosting company options, HostGator and NamecheapLaunching an online store is an exciting journey into the world of e-commerce. One of the key steps in this process is registering a domain. This unique web address not only identifies your store, but also makes it accessible to potential customers. In this article, we’ll explore step by step how to register a domain for your online store and also how to point an external domain to Shopify’s nameservers, if you have your website hosted on this platform and you want to register the domain with an external company like NameCheap.
Why is a Domain Important?
Before diving into the technical details, it’s crucial to understand the importance of a domain for your online store. The domain is your digital address, the first contact customers have with your business. A relevant and easy-to-remember domain can increase your search engine visibility, build trust among visitors, and reinforce your brand.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Domain
Choose an Appropriate Domain Name: Choose a name that reflects your business and is easy to remember. Avoid hyphens and complicated characters as they can confuse users.
Choose a Domain Extension: Domain extensions include .com, .net, .org and many others. Choose an extension that is relevant to your audience and business.
Check Availability: Use a domain registrar to check if your chosen name is available. If not, consider creative alternatives.
Choose a Domain Registrar: If you have your store hosted on Shopify, you can register and check its availability, even there, on that platform. But if you don’t want to register with Shopify, go with a reliable domain registrar like Namecheap, which offers a streamlined registration process and competitive rates.
Complete Registration: Follow the registrar’s instructions to complete the registration process. Fill in the required details and make the payment.
Point the Domain to Shopify Nameservers
If you register directly with Shopify, the domain and hosting are immediately connected when purchasing the store and its hosting and domain registration, but if you have registered the domain with another company such as NameCheap, Hostgator or Hostinger. After registering the domain, you need to direct it to your website on the Shopify platform, if you have your store hosted on this platform. This involves configuring the nameservers.
Here is how to point your external domain to Shopify step-by-step:
Access your Shopify Account: Sign in to your Shopify account and go to settings.
Access Domain Settings: Select “Domains” and then “Manage Domains”.
Connect Domain: Choose the option to connect an existing domain and enter your newly registered domain.
Configure Nameservers: Here, you’ll need to enter the nameservers provided by Shopify. These nameservers will direct traffic from your domain to the Shopify platform.
In summary, registering a domain is a crucial step in establishing your online store. Choose an attractive domain name, select the right extension and register it through a reliable service like Namecheap. Then point the domain to your Shopify platform using the appropriate nameservers. With a careful approach and the right choice of hosting, you will be ready to create a successful online presence and attract customers to your online store.
