Choosing the right domain name is one of the first essential steps in creating a website. Your domain name not only influences your brand but can also impact SEO. So, how do you choose the best domain for your online business?
What Are TLDs and Why Are They Important?
A TLD (Top-Level Domain) is the extension at the end of your domain name, such as .com, .net, .org, .ro, etc. Choosing the right TLD is crucial because it affects how visitors perceive your site and how it ranks in search engines.
Types of TLDs and Examples
- Generic TLDs (gTLDs) – Popular extensions like .com (great for global businesses), .net (initially for networks, now used more broadly), and .org (typically for non-profits).
- Country-Code TLDs (ccTLDs) – Assigned to specific countries, like .ro (Romania), .fr (France), or .de (Germany). If your online store targets the Romanian market, .ro is the best choice.
- New TLDs (nTLDs) – More flexible options, such as .tech (for tech startups), .store (for e-commerce), .online, .blog, and more.
Why Choose a .ro Domain Instead of .com?
If your business primarily targets Romania, a .ro domain has several advantages:
- Better SEO for Romania – Search engines prioritize national domains for local searches, boosting your site’s visibility.
- Higher trust among users – Romanian users tend to trust .ro sites more, considering them relevant and secure.
- More availability – You’re more likely to find an available name with .ro, whereas many .com domains are already taken.
- Cost-effective – .ro domains are affordable, and some may even require a one-time payment without annual renewal fees.
Pros and Cons of Different TLDs
| TLD | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| .com | Recognizable, trusted worldwide | Hard to find an available name |
| .ro | Ideal for local businesses, great for Romanian SEO | Limited to a specific region |
| .net | Good alternative to .com | Less popular |
| .org | Perfect for non-profits | Not ideal for commercial businesses |
| .store | Excellent for eCommerce | Less recognized by users |
Choose a Short, Clear, and Memorable Name
A good domain should be simple, easy to spell, and memorable. For example, if you own an interior design business, DesignInteriors.ro is much clearer than InterioareCoolDesign123.ro.
Use Relevant Keywords
If possible, include a keyword related to your niche. For instance, if you own a bicycle shop, BicicleteX.ro is a better choice than a completely abstract name.
Pick the Right Extension
- .ro – Best for Romanian businesses.
- .com – Ideal for international brands.
- .net, .org – Commonly used for organizations or educational platforms.
How Much Does a Domain Cost?
The price of a domain varies based on the extension and provider. Typically:
- .ro – €10-€50/year
- .com – €10-€20/year
- .net, .org – €10-€30/year
- Special TLDs – Can range from €30 to several hundred euros per year, depending on popularity.
Avoid Hyphens and Numbers
Domains with hyphens or numbers are harder to remember and can cause confusion. For example, site-ul-meu-123.ro is less user-friendly than siteulmeu.ro.
Check Availability
Use a domain checker tool to see if your desired name is available. If it’s already taken, try slight variations.
Protejează-ți brandul
If you have a brand to protect, purchase similar domain variations (e.g., with and without hyphens) to prevent others from registering them.
Need help choosing the perfect domain? Contact us today!
