Domain Name Search: find your domain

The quickest way to check a domain name is with a domain name checker like the search bar at the top of this page. Type in the name you have in mind — with or without an extension such as .co.uk or .com — and the tool instantly shows whether it's available to register. The domain check queries live registry data, so results reflect real-time domain name search availability rather than a cached list. If your first choice is free, you can add it to your basket and register it in minutes. If it's taken, you'll see alternative suggestions straight away, such as the same name with a different extension or a slight variation. Because good names are registered every day, it's wise to secure yours as soon as the domain checker confirms it's available — availability can change within hours.

Domain names are unavailable most often because someone else has already registered them: every domain is unique, and only one person or organisation can hold a given name under a given extension at a time. A domain check can also come back negative for other reasons. Some names are reserved by the registry that manages the extension, others are classed as premium domains and sold at higher prices, and certain extensions have eligibility rules — for example, some country-code domains require a local address. Trademarked terms may be blocked or restricted, too. If your domain name search shows your preferred name is taken, you still have options: try a different extension such as .uk instead of .co.uk, add a short word or hyphen, or adjust the spelling slightly. The domain checker will also suggest available alternatives automatically.

.co.uk is generally the best domain extension for UK-focused websites. It's the most widely recognised UK extension, signals to both visitors and search engines that your site serves a British audience, and tends to be trusted by UK customers. The shorter .uk is a modern alternative that works well if the .co.uk version is taken. If you're targeting an international audience alongside the UK, .com remains the safest global choice, while .eu suits businesses with a European focus. There's no ranking penalty for choosing one over another — Google treats country-code extensions like .co.uk as a geo-targeting signal, not a quality signal. Many businesses register several extensions at once, point them all to the same website, and protect their brand name in the process. Run a quick domain check to see which extensions are still available for your name.
Other popular options include:

.net → a long-established and widely recognised extension

.org → ideal for charities and organisations

.online → a flexible and modern alternative

.pro → a versatile option when other names are unavailable

Domain name search means checking whether a specific web address — such as yourbusiness.co.uk — is available to register. When you type a name into a domain checker, the tool queries the official registry databases for each extension and tells you instantly whether the name is free, taken or reserved. A domain name search usually returns more than a simple yes or no: you'll also see the price, alternative extensions and suggested variations if your first choice is unavailable. It's different from a web search — you're not looking for existing websites, but for names that don't yet exist as registered domains. Running a domain name search is the first practical step in getting online, before building a website or setting up email. Because results reflect live availability, a name that's free today may be gone tomorrow, so it's best to register promptly.

Start by entering a name, brand or keyword into the domain name checker at the top of this page. The tool instantly shows whether your exact name is available and lists alternatives across popular extensions such as .co.uk, .com and .net. Compare the results and shortlist names that are short, easy to spell and easy to say aloud — avoid numbers and special characters where possible, and think about whether the name will still fit as your business grows. If your favourite is taken, try a different extension, a small variation or an added word. Once you've found an available domain name that fits, add it to your basket and complete the registration; the whole process takes only a few minutes. After registering, you can connect the domain to a website, create professional email addresses on it, or forward it elsewhere.

Domain name prices vary mainly because each extension is run by a different registry, and each registry sets its own wholesale fee. A .co.uk therefore costs a different amount from a .com, .io or .shop. On top of that, demand plays a role: short, generic or highly sought-after names are often classed as premium domains and priced significantly higher than standard registrations. Prices can also differ between the first year and renewal — many registrars, including one.com, offer a discounted first year, with the regular rate applying afterwards. Finally, some extensions bundle extra requirements or services that affect cost. When you check a domain name, the search results always show the exact price for each available option before you buy, so there are no surprises. Comparing a few extensions during your domain name search is an easy way to find good value.