How Do I Connect My Domain to My Website? A 123 Reg Guide
If you’ve bought a domain together with a 123 Reg plan like Website Builder or Managed WordPress Hosting, the chances are it’s already connected — so once you’ve hit publish, it should appear when someone visits your web address. There are other times when you’ll need to connect it yourself. For example, if the domain is in a different account, if you’re switching to a different hosting plan, or if your site is hosted somewhere else. This guide explains how the connection works, and what to do if you need to manually “point” your domain to 123 Reg hosting or a third-party website. Why do you need to connect your domain? Your domain name is what people type in to find your site, like “your-big-idea.co.uk”. Your website is the content you’ve built using an easy tool like Website Builder or Managed WordPress Hosting, or perhaps even one you’ve set up yourself with hosting. On their own, they don’t link up. Connecting them makes sure that when someone enters your domain, they’re taken to your website. If your domain isn’t connected to your website, people won’t be able to reach your site through your main web address. Your website might still exist on a temporary address, but your domain won’t take visitors there until it’s linked properly. It’s a bit like putting a house name on your front door. Connecting your domain is that simple final step that turns your web address into a real destination for visitors. This also helps search engines like Google understand where your site lives. When your domain is correctly connected, it’s easier for search engines to find and show your pages in search results, which helps people find you more easily over time. How to connect your domain to your website There are two main ways this usually works. In many cases, the connection is already set up for you, or you can quickly assign your domain inside your 123 Reg Control Panel. Otherwise, you may need to point the domain yourself so it links to the right website. ☐ Automatic or guided connection (common when bought together) When your domain and website product (like Website Builder or Managed WordPress) are in the same 123 Reg account, they’re often linked during setup or shown as ready to connect. In most cases, you just choose the domain and assign it to your site in your Control Panel. ☐ Manual connection (when they aren’t already linked) If the domain isn’t already assigned, you can connect it from inside your website product settings by selecting the correct domain and linking it to your site. If your website is hosted outside of 123 Reg, you’ll need to point your domain using DNS records or nameservers instead. Connecting a 123 Reg domain to 123 Reg hosting What do you need before you connect your 123 Reg domain? Before you start, it helps to have a few things ready: ✓ A domain registered with 123 Reg (or one you’re happy to move or connect). ✓ A live website already built, whether with 123 Reg hosting or a third-party provider. ✓ Access to your 123 Reg account and the product where your site is managed (for example, Website Builder or your hosting control panel). If you’re using 123 Reg Website Builder, it’s a little easier when both the domain and the site are in the same 123 Reg account, so it’s worth checking that first. Can I use more than one domain for the same website? Yes! And it can actually be a good idea. You can register multiple domains in your 123 Reg account and point them all to the same website. That helps you cover different versions of your name, common misspellings, or alternative endings, so people still find you even if they don’t type the exact address. What should you do if your 123 Reg domain is in a different account? If your domain is with 123 Reg but sits in a different account to your Website Builder site, you won’t be able to connect it straight away. The domain needs to be in the same 123 Reg account as your Website Builder product before it can be linked. You’ll need to transfer the domain into the correct account first. Once that’s done, you can continue with the normal steps. How to connect my 123 Reg domain to my Website Builder site Start by going to your 123 Reg My Products page. In Websites + Marketing, select Manage next to your website. From your dashboard, select Edit Website to open Website Builder (like you would if you were going to edit your site). From there, go into Settings in the right-hand menu and click Manage. You’ll see the domains in your 123 Reg account in the dropdown under “My Domain”. Simply choose the domain you want to use, then click Save & Publish to connect it to your site. In most cases, the change happens within a few minutes, but it can take up to 72 hours to fully update. For more, see our Support article: Connect your Website Builder site to a new domain Connecting your Website Builder site to an external domain You’ll also see an option to Add an external domain. This is for domains that aren’t already set up in the same account or aren’t currently linked to your Website Builder site. When you choose this option, your domain needs to be pointing to your Website Builder site using an A record. This is a DNS setting that connects your domain to your website using an IP address. You’ll find the correct A record details in your Website Builder settings when you select Add an external domain. Then, tick the box that says “Yes, my domain’s A record has been updated”, and click Save & Publish to complete the connection. For more help, see our Support article: Connect my Website Builder site to a domain registered outside of 123
.com vs .net – Which Is Best for Your Website? (Or Why Not Both!)
Did you know there are more than 1.1 billion websites in the world? And that over 43% of them use a .com domain? While .com may be the most recognisable web address ending (known as a top-level domain, or TLD), it’s far from the only option. In fact, there are now more than 1,500 TLDs active worldwide. In this article, we’re putting the spotlight on .net. We’ll cover where it came from, clear up a few common myths, see how it compares to .com, and help you decide which domain makes the most sense for your website. What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)? A domain extension, or “Top-Level Domain” (TLD), is the last part of a website address — the part that comes after the final dot. For example, it’s the .co.uk in 123-reg.co.uk. A TLD does more than help browsers find your site. It also says something about you. Some, like .co.uk or .fr, show where your business is based. Others, like .org or .ai, suggest what your site is about. Picking the right TLD helps your web address stand out and feel more personal. It can make your business look local, professional or creative. At 123 Reg, you can choose from over 400 domain extensions to find one that fits your brand. For more on domain extensions, read: What is a Top-Level Domain? The story behind .net .net is one of the internet’s original TLDs, launched on 1 January 1985 alongside .com, .org, .edu, .gov, and .mil. The name comes from “network” (as you may have guessed) and was first intended for organisations involved in networking tech, like internet service providers or other digital communications companies. The first-ever .net domain was nordu.net, registered by NORDUnet, which connects research and education institutions across the Nordic countries. That site is actually still active today! Over time, the use of the .net domain ending broadened. Today, it’s used by all kinds of organisations — from tech firms and startups to estate agents and creative agencies. More than 13 million websites now use .net, making it one of the six most popular TLDs globally. How .com became the world’s favourite .com was introduced on the same day as .net: 1 January 1985. Short for “commercial”, it was originally designed for businesses and commercial organisations. The first .com ever registered was symbolics.com, owned by the Symbolics Computer Corporation. While the company no longer operates, the domain remains active — often cited as the starting point of the commercial internet. Today, .com is still the most recognised domain extension worldwide, with over 150 million registrations on record, making it the largest TLD by far. To learn more buying domains, check out: How to Buy a Domain Name .net: Pros and cons Why you might love a .net The .net extension has real staying power. It’s been part of the internet since the early days and still feels like a solid, tech-friendly choice. It’s often linked with networks, hosting and online services, which makes it a natural fit for digital-first ideas — though it works just as well for plenty of other projects too. Another big plus is availability. With around 13 million .net registrations compared to .com’s roughly 161 million, you’ve got a much better chance of landing the name you actually want. Those figures come from Verisign’s 2024 Domain Name Industry Brief. Can people trust a .net domain? Absolutely. .net has been around for nearly 40 years and sits comfortably alongside .com and .org as one of the most familiar domain extensions online. In reality, trust usually comes down to what visitors see once they land — clear branding, a matching email address, and a site that looks looked-after, rather than the domain ending itself. What to watch out for The main catch is habit. Some people still type “.com” by default, especially if they’re guessing a web address. A common workaround is to register both versions and forward the .com to your .net — a simple way to catch those visits and keep things tidy. .com: Pros and cons Why .com is still the go-to There’s a reason .com is everywhere. It’s short, familiar, and works for almost any kind of website. From small side projects to big international brands, a .com address usually feels like the obvious choice. The tricky bit with .com That popularity comes at a cost. With so many .com domains already taken, finding a short or catchy name can be tough. You may need to get creative — or look at alternatives like .co.uk — to find something that fits without compromise. Want to get found in AI search overviews? AI tools like Google AI Overviews and ChatGPT pull businesses straight into answers — skipping links. Don’t go invisible. Read our guide on how to show in AI search answers and make your website easier for AI tools to find and recommend. How to choose between .com and .net You don’t always have to pick just one! You don’t have to choose between .com and .net. Many website owners register both and point them to the same site using domain forwarding. This helps catch visitors who type the wrong ending, protects your brand from copycats and lookalike sites, and keeps all your traffic and emails going to one place. The benefits of having multiple TLDs Registering more than one domain is a practical way to protect your name and reduce confusion. Why owning both .com and .net can help Owning both extensions can help you: ✓ Protect your brand by stopping others from registering similar domain names. ✓ Avoid confusion if another organisation uses the same name with a different ending. ✓ Catch missed traffic from visitors who guess the wrong TLD. What if your first choice is already taken? No need to panic if your preferred .com or .net isn’t available. There are hundreds of newer and more niche TLDs that can suit your industry or
Why Short Domain Extensions are Better
We live in a fast-moving digital world where every tap, click, and character counts. Your website address does more than lead people to your site – it shapes how easy it is for them to find, remember, and share your brand. Choosing the right domain can make a real difference. A short, simple address doesn’t just look tidy; it makes your site easier to access, your brand easier to recall, and your content easier to share. That first impression starts with just a few letters. So when it comes to choosing the right domain extension, here are some good reasons why less is more. 10 reasons to go short with your domain ending ✓ Easy to remember Short extensions like .co, .io, or .ai stick in people’s minds better than long, fiddly ones. Fewer characters mean less chance of forgetting, so customers come back without a search. ✓ Simple to type No one wants to fumble with a lengthy URL like yourbusiness.info or yourstore.tech, especially on a phone. Short domains like yourbiz.com or yourclub.site cut down on typos and make entering your address easy. By the way, those last few letters are called domain extensions or “TLDs.” Fancy a deeper look? Check out What is a Top-Level Domain? ✓ Mobile-friendly Most web traffic happens on phones now, and short links shine on small screens. They load quicker in chats and fit perfectly without scrolling — whether it’s yourshop.live, yourfit.life, or yourbrand.store. ✓ Great for sharing Whether it’s a tweet, email, or business card, short domains look neat and spread easily. With character limits on platforms like X (Twitter), they leave more room for your message. Try a shareable address like yourname.email or thatproject.xyz. ✓ Global reach Short extensions like .uk, .com, .net, .org, or .net work worldwide without confusion, helping your brand connect across borders. They’re understood everywhere. ✓ Boosts your brand A snappy domain gives off a clean, pro vibe that matches big names like Google’s g.co or Starbucks’ sbux.co. A short, memorable domain like yourtech.pro or yourstartup.vip makes your brand feel modern and professional. ✓ Stands out from the crowd Print it on flyers, pop it in ads, or share on social — short extensions like .store, .shop, or .tech slot right in without clutter. They make every promo look sharp and clickable. For more, see: Names That Click – How to Choose the Right Domain Name ✓ Fits marketing perfectly Simple URLs like yourbrand.us, yourclub.org, or yourname.email feel reliable and professional, so people click with confidence. No one trusts a messy, overlong web address. For UK businesses, the shorter .uk is a sharper, easier-to-remember alternative to .co.uk. It keeps your address tidy while still showing you’re local, making it quicker for customers to type and share. ✓ Builds trust fast Clean, simple domain endings feel reliable and professional and that encourages more people click with confidence. No one trusts a messy, overlong web address. ✓ More names available Crowded .coms often leave you scrabbling for options, but short extensions like .io or .co have plenty free. For more, check out: .com vs .uk – Which is Best For Your Business? Find your perfect domain with 123 Reg today.
.xxx Marks the Spot: How Can You Register a .xxx Domain Name?
It’s been more than a decade since the internet saw the launch of its first dedicated adult domain extension: .xxx. What began as a controversial idea in the early 2010s has matured into a unique corner of the domain name landscape — a place where adult sites can stand out and everyone knows what they’re getting. So, what’s changed since the early days, and what should you know about .xxx domains in the 2020s? Let’s dive in. The arrival of .xxx — A brief history The journey of .xxx started with years of heated debate, legal wrangling, and regulatory review. When it finally launched in 2011, it promised a clear “home” for adult content on the web with the goal of making it easier for users to find (or block) explicit material. At launch, the registry behind .xxx at the time, ICM, even partnered with cybersecurity experts like McAfee to scan these sites for malware — setting early standards for online safety that still influence the space today. Flash forward to 2025: .xxx domains are now a well-established part of the domain ecosystem, with over 160,000 registrations worldwide as of 2024. While not every adult site has adopted .xxx, the extension has carved out a distinct space for verified, professional operators who want to stand out and stay compliant. Fast facts about .xxx domains ☐ Launched: 2011 ☐ Current Registry: GoDaddy Registry (formerly ICM Registry) ☐ Active .xxx domains (2024): 160,000+ ☐ Trademark blocks: 30,000+ ☐ Contribution to IFFOR (since launch): Over $20 million Why the .xxx extension matters ✓ Instant appeal For adult businesses, .xxx offers instant recognition and credibility. Even as the wider domain world grows, .xxx continues carving out its own space online, with thousands of sites registered and counting. ✓ Safety and security One of the founding principles of .xxx was to create a more trustworthy environment for adult content. Every .xxx site must adhere to strict policies on age verification, malware prevention, and user privacy. Because of the rules and regulations around .xxx domains, it may even be the case that they experience less abuse than generic extensions like .com. ICM Registry keeps .xxx sites safer by running regular malware scans, helping users browse adult content without nasty surprises. ✓ Industry oversight A portion of every .xxx registration goes to the Foundation for Online Responsibility (IFFOR), the group that makes sure adult sites stick to rules and keep things above board. The ICM Registry continues to work with organisations focused on online safety and responsibility. As ICM put it: “We’re committed to promoting responsible online behaviour and supporting best practices within the adult entertainment community — because safe is sexy.” ✓ Blocking, parking, and brand protection Not in the adult industry? You still have a stake in the .xxx conversation. Major brands and trademark holders often register or block their names in the .xxx space to prevent misuse or brand damage. In 2024, over 30,000 trademarks were officially blocked from being registered as .xxx domains. ✓ Trust While adult websites don’t always have the best reputations, an .xxx domain coupled with the security of an SSL Certificate can help reassure visitors that your site is legit. Who can register .xxx domain names? Adult industry operators (Community members) If you’re part of the adult entertainment industry and want your .xxx domain to go live, you need to complete the ICM Registry membership process. When you register your domain, you’ll verify your age and identity. Once approved, you get a Membership ID that works for all your .xxx domains. Without it, your domain won’t go live. As ever, the domain name you choose can be 1–63 characters long and use letters, numbers, or hyphens (special characters aren’t allowed). You can register or renew .xxx domains for 1–10 years. Other businesses or individuals Anyone can register a .xxx domain. However, When you register your domain, it won’t work as a live website unless you later complete the ICM Registry membership process. Some businesses buy .xxx domains just to “park” them (keep the name without a live website) or redirect them to their main website address. Services like AdultBlock help manage parked domains by preventing misuse and safely redirecting visitors. For more about parking domain names, see the article: What is Domain Parking? Key features of .xxx domains ☐ Security: All .xxx domains undergo regular security reviews and must comply with industry-best standards. ☐ Visibility: Many search engines now treat .xxx as a distinct category, making it easier to filter or find adult content as needed. ☐ Policy compliance: Registrants must follow a code of conduct, which includes strong anti-abuse and privacy protections. ☐ Micropayments and Monetisation: Payment gateways and affiliate programs tailored to the adult industry have become standard features on .xxx domains — an idea first floated when .xxx launched more than a decade ago. ☐ Availability: You’re more likely to find your ideal .XXX domain than the .com equivalent. Should you register a .xxx domain name? If you’re in the adult industry A .xxx domain shows you take things seriously and follow the rules. It can help people find your site, build trust with visitors, and make monetisation easier — plus it keeps you in a safe, verified corner of the web. If you’re not You don’t have to be running an adult site to buy a .xxx domain. Any business can register one to establish their brand online. You can park it, redirect it, or simply keep it safe with a service like AdultBlock, giving you peace of mind and full control over your brand online. See also: How to Buy a Domain Name – A Step-by-Step Guide (and Useful Tips) The ongoing debate: Progress or problem? The arrival of .xxx was met with both excitement and concern, and the debate continues. Supporters argue that it adds transparency and safety to a huge global industry worth an estimated $97 billion in 2024. Critics worry about the potential
Domain Transfer Guide: When to Switch and How to Do It
Thousands of domain transfers take place every year. If you’re thinking about doing the same, you might be wondering how difficult it all is — and whether it’s really worth the effort. In this guide, we’ll address these queries and more, to help you work out if you should switch, when to switch, and how to do it. What is a domain transfer? A domain transfer is when you move the domain name you own from one registrar (the company that looks after it) to another. Think of it like switching energy supplier or mobile network — same name, just managed somewhere else. People do it for all sorts of reasons: better pricing, nicer features, or just wanting everything in one account. When is it a good idea to transfer your domain? The answer will always depend on your exact circumstances. Entrepreneurs and small business owners may start to think about transferring their domain if they’re dissatisfied with their current registrar. However, in cases when you’re not 100% happy, transfers aren’t the only option. It may be that you can simply switch up the product or package you have with your current provider to help with anything that’s not quite working for you. So, it’s always worth contacting your provider to see if they can better meet your needs before you commit. What are the most common reasons for switching providers? These are a few reasons why domain owners consider transferring their domains, including: ☐ Pricing: A registrar might offer lower renewal, transfer, or management fees, or provide special promotions and discounts. If this is your reason for considering a transfer, be sure to evaluate the total value of the package you’re getting. Look at future renewal and transfer fees and look at what’s included in the price – for example, is Domain Privacy included in the new plan? ☐ Better customer support: Some domain owners choose to transfer their domains because they have been disappointed by their current registrar’s level of customer service. ☐ Enhanced features: The new registrar may provide better DNS management, free WHOIS privacy, email forwarding, easier domain management tools, bulk management capabilities, or even other perks like free trials of other web-related tools. ☐ Consolidation: Entrepreneurs with multiple domains may want to transfer their domains so they can manage everything they own from a single account. ☐ Improved security: The new registrar may offer stronger security features such as two-factor authentication, better account protection, or improved domain locking mechanisms. ☐ Reputation and trust: Concerns about the reliability, stability, or business practices of the current registrar may prompt a transfer to a more reputable provider. ☐ Policy or service changes: Changes in terms of service, policies, or the range of supported top-level domains (TLDs) may make the current registrar less suitable. What does the domain transfer process involve? The exact steps can vary slightly depending on the domain extension (like .com, .org, .uk) and the registrar you’re moving from. But in most cases, the process looks something like this: Log in to your account with your current registrar. Make sure your domain is unlocked for transfer. Go to the transfer section in your account. Depending on the domain, you’ll either update a transfer tag or request an authorisation code (sometimes called an EPP code). If you’re given a code, make a note of it. Head over to your new registrar and start the transfer request. Confirm the transfer when prompted. Every registrar uses slightly different wording, but the steps stay broadly the same. If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide on how to transfer your domain to 123 Reg, check out our article: Transferring third-party domain names to 123 Reg How long does a domain transfer take? Transfer times can vary depending on the type of domain. For example, .uk transfers are usually completed almost instantly, while other extensions like .com, .net or .org can take around five to seven days. Delays are rare, but they can happen if details are out of date or if the domain has recently been registered or transferred. Who handles the technical part of the transfer? Most registrars handle the behind the scenes, technical part of domain name transfers. At 123 Reg, our team takes care of the technical side and transfers are completed in five to seven days. What happens to your website and data during a domain transfer? A domain transfer is mostly an admin process. It only moves the domain name – not your website files, databases, or emails. ✓ A quick DNS check If you’re only moving your domain (not your website) from one registrar to another, it’s worth checking your DNS settings first. ✓ Before the transfer… Log in to your current registrar and see where your DNS is managed. Is it on their nameservers (e.g. ns1.registrarA.com) or a third party like Cloudflare (e.g. ns1.cloudflare.com)? Copy all your DNS records (A, CNAME, MX, TXT, etc.) and save them somewhere safe. ✓ After the transfer… Make sure your DNS settings are either: ① Still managed by your original registrar (some registrars let you keep DNS management even if the domain leaves, but not all do), or ② Replicated in your new registrar’s DNS manager (if you switch DNS management to the new company). If DNS settings are lost or not set up, your website and email could go down until fixed. Feeling confused by DNS? Don’t worry, if you move your domain to 123 Reg, the support team can talk to you about DNS and any further checks and steps you need to go through to ensure the move goes smoothly. If you want to move your website as well as your domain, the 123 Reg Support team can help with this move, too. For more, check out: What is DNS – How Websites Get Found Online Will my website or email go down during a transfer? In most cases,
A 123 Reg Guide to Starting an Online Business
Launching an online business has never been easier. You don’t need big upfront funding, and serious tech skills aren’t required. With the flexibility to set your own schedule and call the shots, you can be your own boss. With clever strategy, reach a huge audience from the start. From side income to global e-commerce empire, possibilities are endless. Here’s our guide to getting your online business off the ground. Why start an online business? Building an online business is a great chance to do something rewarding — in more ways than one. To start with the obvious, the entry barrier is often very low. Online ventures tend to come with minimal start-up costs compared to a bricks-and-mortar business, saving money on rent, utilities, and other associated expenses. It’s a way to get a foot in the business door without reaching deep into your wallet. For those who already have a physical shop, going online offers a great way to increase revenue and reach new audiences. You also have flexibility. As your customer base grows, you can expand operations without the limits of physical space. You can shape your online business to fit exactly what you need. Whether you’re starting small with a niche product or dreaming big with a diverse range, you can scale up as you go. You don’t need to be a tech wizard. With so many user-friendly platforms and handy tools available, it’s possible to set up shop with only limited tech skills. Good website builders provide templates that make it easy to launch a professional-looking website in minutes — and manage stock and update pages daily. If you prefer instant access to customers, you might explore marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, and others. And there’s never been a better time to start. In fact, the UK now boasts the world’s third largest e-commerce market after China and the US. Online sales now account for over 38% of total UK retail sales, even amid economic shifts. eCommerce sales grew nearly 30% in 2024-2025, and the market is projected to reach around £286 billion by the end of 2025. By 2029, revenues are expected to hit $186 billion (£142 billion). So, if you’ve got something to share with the world, now’s the time to make your mark. How do you come up with that business idea? So you’ve decided to start an online business. Exciting! The first step is to define your business idea — turning that spark of inspiration into a clear, actionable concept. There are a few key things to think about to help shape your vision into something tangible and viable. First, consider the scale and commitment of your venture. Are you looking to start a side-gig to complement your lifestyle and income, or aiming for a full-time business that’ll become your main focus? Next, think about the core of your business: the product or service you want to offer. This is where your passion meets market demand. Is there something you’re particularly interested in or have expertise in? Defining your niche is crucial. Pinpoint a specific market segment. Instead of trying to serve everyone, focus on a group with shared interests. Tailor your products or services to their preferences. This approach helps your business stand out and builds stronger connections with loyal customers. Look at your passions and any gaps in the market to identify your niche effectively. Finally, consider how well the idea aligns with your skills and experience. Will you need extra training or partnerships? A business that fits your strengths and knowledge is more likely to succeed. Choose your business model What type of entrepreneur are you? Think about what you love doing and what you’re good at. Do you want to manage stock yourself, or would you prefer a low-overhead model like dropshipping? Your choice should match both your strengths and how you want to show up in the market. Once you’ve thought about that, it’s time to look at business models — basically, the way your business operates and who you’ll sell to. We can break this down into two parts: 1. Core market type ➤ Business-to-Business (B2B): when businesses sell products or services to other businesses. When it comes to wholesale, a B2B might act as intermediary in a supply chain, purchasing goods in bulk from manufacturers and selling them to retailers or other businesses. ➤ Business-to-Consumer (B2C): where businesses sell direct to consumers. This is the biggest e-commerce business model there is — whenever we make an online purchase as an individual customer, we’re engaged in the B2C model. ➤ Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C): when consumers sell goods or services to each other through an intermediary platform. Casual and occasional selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace would fall into this category. ➤ Consumer-to-Business (C2B): when consumers provide services to businesses. Switching around the B2C idea, this one is a bit oddly named, as it typically refers to freelancers selling to businesses. For example, getting paid to upload photography to Shutterstock. 2. Sales and fulfilment approach ➤ Wholesale (B2B Sales, Bulk Distributor)In online wholesale, you work between manufacturers and retail businesses, offering products in large quantities at lower prices. The key to success is developing strong relationships with reliable suppliers and understanding the market demands of your customers. You’ll need a grasp of inventory management as you’ll be handling and shipping products to various locations. ➤ Dropshipping (Order Fulfilment or Inventory-less Retail)Dropshipping is a choice for those who prefer not to hold onto the stock themselves (or don’t have the means to). Here, when a customer places an order, your role is to have the product shipped directly from the supplier to them. You don’t handle the product directly and, as such, you don’t need the storage space. Dropshipping is appealing for those looking to enter the e-commerce space without a significant upfront investment in inventory. ➤ Custom Made-to-Order (Personalised, Customisable Products)Are you interested in offering products customised to your customer’s specifications? This could include
.info: Show What You Know
In a world overflowing with information, the .info domain cuts through the noise. The perfect space from which to inform, educate, and inspire. No need for confusing acronyms or letters — .info speaks for itself. Built-in relevance. It’s clear, simple, and instantly lets visitors know what your site is all about. What is .info? Say hello to .info, the original domain for websites that inform, educate, and share what you know. First launched back in 2001, it was one of the first “new” TLDs aimed to offer more choice beyond .co.uk and .com domains. With over four million .info domains registered, it’s an extension with staying power. Even in 2025, it holds its own against newer extensions. From day one, .info was built for clarity — letting people know, right away, that a site is about facts, insights, or expertise. It’s the perfect way to build trust in a crowded online space. It’s short, simple, and instantly recognisable. If you want a domain that says “Here’s everything you need to know” then .info might be the one. See also: What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)? Who uses the .info domain extension? Experts, academics and businesses — anyone who wants to share information. It’s a natural fit for educational content. Universities, research groups and e-learning platforms often use it to share clear, useful information. Some people think .info is only for wikis or reference sites. Not so! Most now see it as a credible, professional choice for any site that shares insights. Some of the world’s most trusted brands use .info to build trust and reach a wide audience. Subject experts use .info to share what they know and stand out in their field. It’s also a smart pick for infotainment blogs, fact-based projects or public resources. Can anyone buy a .info domain? Yep! The .info TLD is open to everyone. That’s in contrast with the .edu domain, which is only available to accredited educational institutions. So if you’re sharing knowledge but don’t qualify for .edu, .info gives you the freedom to publish, teach or inform — no red tape, just information. The only rules are your domain name must be between 1 and 63 characters, and you can’t use special characters like exclamation marks or emojis (as is the case with all domain names). Beyond that, .info is yours for the taking. Why buy a .info Domain? The pros of .info are clear. First off, it’s memorable. People instantly understand that your site is all about sharing information. It’s also more available than other TLDs like .com, meaning you’re more likely to secure the domain name you actually want. For those looking to share knowledge and establish authority, .info is the perfect choice. Even with the rise of new TLDs, .info is still going strong in 2025. Why? Because it’s clear, simple, and instantly lets visitors know what your site is all about. No need for confusing acronyms or cryptic names. The .info extension speaks for itself, giving you: ☐ Instant clarity – No need to explain what your site does. .info says it all. ☐ Strong SEO potential – That is, it’s one of the easier ones to find through search engines. After all, people search for “info” all the time. ☐ Greater availability – Unlike .com, you’re more likely to get the domain name you actually want. ☐ A perfect fit for experts – If you’re sharing insights, this is a domain that makes sense. If you’re building a site to share knowledge, establish credibility, or create a space for experts to connect, .info is a perfect fit. It helps make your site memorable and helps your audience know they’re in the right place for fact-based content. As for the cons, it’s true that .info isn’t as common as .com — but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can help you stand out more in a crowded digital space. How to get your own .info domain Start by thinking of a name that best reflects what you do and what you want to share. Once you’ve got it, head to 123 Reg, check if it’s available, and grab it in seconds. Need inspiration? Our domain search tool suggests ideas based on your keywords, helping you find the perfect .info domain — even if your first choice is taken. Not only that, but with 123 Reg, you can grab a .info domain right now for just 99p* for the first year. Search for your .info domain here to get started. Don’t wait too long though — good names can go fast. A quick search can save you from missing out, so go ahead and snag the domain you’ve got your eye on before someone else does. Is .info the right choice for you? You might be a subject matter expert, an educator, or simply someone with something really valuable to share online. The .info web address can work for any sort of site, from building a personal blog, to an online portfolio, or a resource-packed educational site. It’s a domain that helps you show what you know. And if you’re still on the fence, think about it this way: .info isn’t just a domain — it’s a chance to share your expertise with the world. It’s time to make that knowledge easy to find. Why not grab a domain today or start brainstorming your big idea? See also: Names That Click – How to Choose the Right Domain Name Wrap up With .info, you’re not just choosing a domain. You’re choosing a space to share your expertise and build trust. It’s simple, memorable, and designed to make your knowledge stand out. Ready to make your mark online? Get your own .info domain today and start sharing what you know. * First year only. Subsequent years will be charged at the then-applicable renewal rate. £0.15 ICANN fees and applicable taxes may apply. Excludes Premium Domains. Prices exclude VAT.
How to Start an Online Business (Without Any Money)
Your imagination is your most valuable asset when it comes to starting an online business. It’s all about that great idea. You don’t need money in the bank or a computer science degree to make it happen. A spark of genius can ignite an empire. Starting strong begins with the essentials: buying a domain, building a website, setting up a custom email address. These steps lay the foundation. Once you’ve set your target, your time and energy become your first investment. One of the best things about doing business online is the flexibility — you control the model, the hours, and everything in between. You’re the boss. If you’re looking for a quicker way to win customers, selling through existing marketplaces gives you access to an instant audience. And if managing stock and storage isn’t your thing, a model like dropshipping lets you run a shop without ever handling the products. Easier said than done? Fair enough — there will be a few bumps along the way. The competition’s fierce. And once you’ve decided to launch your business, there’s also the small matter of registration, taxes, and keeping things above board. Let’s get into it! #1 Choose your business model Think about the core of your business: the product or service you’ll offer. What are you passionate about? What skills and expertise do you possess? Consider the size of your venture: is this going to be a hustle on the side, or a full-time commitment? When it comes to no-to-low cost online business ideas, here are just some of the models to choose from: ☐ Wholesale (Bulk Distribution) Wholesale is all about buying products in bulk from manufacturers or distributors, then selling direct to other stores. This could be clothing and apparel, electronics and accessories, food and drink… you name it. Success as a wholesaler depends on one very expensive thing, however: space. You’ll also need time to build a reputation before expanding into bulk distribution. So, when it comes to ideas for starting an online business from zero, wholesale might be more of a medium-long term model to aim for. Luckily, there are easier ways to get started. ☐ Dropshipping (Inventory-less Retail) If you’d prefer to avoid managing inventory and shipping — or if space is tight — then dropshipping could be the best option for you. Here’s the idea: when a customer places an order, it’s shipped directly from the supplier to them. Imagine running an online clothing store. With dropshipping, you can partner with manufacturers to send items straight from the factory to your customers, saving storage space and cutting out the logistical headache. Dropshipping has a lower barrier to entry than wholesale due to the lack of upfront inventory and storage space costs. Profit margins tend to be lower, as you’re essentially paying the supplier to handle all the fulfillment. But it’s a great place to start. ☐ Reselling Reselling is about buying products, new or used, and selling them on at a higher price. While the word might conjure up images of selling second-hand goods on eBay, the majority of online shops are essentially resellers. The reselling model is especially common on major online marketplace platforms. For example, you might purchase popular mobile phones from major retailers and resell them at a higher price. The key difference between resellers and dropshippers is that resellers hold stock, even if only in small quantities. ‘Arbitrage’ is another sort of reselling where sellers set out to profit from price differences between markets. While it can work for some, it’s important to keep everything above board! ☐ Private Label Going private label is way to build brand identity without the hassle and expense of manufacturing products from scratch. Essentially, you partner with a manufacturer who produces a generic product, which you then customise with your own branding. You can offer unique products under your own name, even if you don’t have the resources to create them yourself. ☐ Handmade Goods and Custom Products Artisans and craftspeople have long put their skills to work selling handmade goods online. This might includes unique jewellery, clothing, furniture, art, and more. You can add personalisation options for a special touch. A popular subcategory is Print on Demand (POD), where you sell custom items like t-shirts or mugs made especially to order. ☐ Digital Products This category encompasses a wide range of products, including eBooks, software, digital art, and more. Creating and selling digital products can be a cost-effective way to reach a global audience. Say you’re the author of a series of eBooks, for instance. You could sell your titles on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Apple Books, or through your own website. Just be sure to use Digital Rights Management to deter any unauthorised copying and sharing. ☐ Subscription Services (Physical) Offering products on a subscription basis has the potential to bring in a steady stream of revenue. Subscription boxes filled with curated physical products, such as beauty samples, gourmet snacks, or hobby-related items, offer customers the excitement of receiving new surprises regularly. One popular example might be subscription cooking packs and spices. ☐ Affiliate Marketing Affiliate marketing is a performance-based way to earn, where you make commission promoting other people’s products or services. Typically, you’ll earn a little for each sale made through unique referral links. The key is to focus on products or services that align with your audience’s interests and needs. Affiliate marketing can bring significant earning potential for popular bloggers and vloggers, Youtubers and social media influencers — which brings us nicely to the next category… ☐ Freelance Creative Freelance creative work lets you turn your skills into a flexible way to earn. Set your own rates, choose your hours, and work on your terms. Whether through a freelance platform or your own website, a good portfolio can show off your best work and happy clients. Creative freelance services might include: ✓ Graphic design✓ Illustration✓ Photography✓