The Domain I Wanted Is Taken — Now What Do I Do?
So you finally found the perfect name for your business, but when you type it into a domain search… it’s already taken. Don’t panic! This happens to almost everyone, and you still have great options. Here’s what to do if the domain you wanted is taken.
Step 1: Check Who Owns It
Use a WHOIS lookup or check the domain directly. Sometimes:
It’s already in use (a real website).
It’s parked (someone bought it but isn’t using it).
It’s listed for sale (with a price tag).
👉 If it’s parked or for sale, you may be able to buy it directly. But don’t blow your whole budget — see Step 2.
Step 2: Decide If You Really Need That Exact Name
Is this domain central to your brand identity? (Like your business name?)
Is there room for small tweaks that won’t confuse customers?
If you’re attached to the exact domain, you can try contacting the owner. But sometimes, it’s smarter (and cheaper) to move to Plan B.
Step 3: Try Smart Variations
If www.example.com is taken, try:
Add a word: getexample.com, helloexample.com, examplehq.com
Use your location: examplechicago.com, exampleco.com
Clarify your business type: exampledesign.com, exampleconsulting.com
Shorten or abbreviate: exmpl.com, exco.com
✅ Keep it short and memorable — don’t overcomplicate with long strings of words.
Step 4: Explore Other Extensions
Maybe .com is gone, but:
.co = modern, startup-friendly
.org = nonprofit or mission-driven
.net = tech companies
.ai / .io = trendy in tech
.us / .uk / .ca = strong for local focus
💡 Google treats all extensions equally for SEO. The real question is: will your audience trust and remember it?
Step 5: Check for Trademarks Before You Commit
Even if a domain is available, make sure the name isn’t trademarked by someone else in your industry. A quick search on USPTO.gov (or your country’s trademark office) can save you headaches later.
Step 6: Consider Buying Multiple Domains
Once you land on a name you like, consider grabbing:
.com + another extension (like .co)
Common misspellings
Local variation (like .us)
Set up redirects so all traffic flows to your main site.
Step 7: Keep the Big Picture in Mind
Remember: your brand is more than your domain. Customers care about the experience, the story, and the value you bring. A slightly different domain won’t stop you from building trust.
FAQs: When Your Domain Is Taken
Can I buy a domain that’s already taken?
Yes, if the owner is willing to sell. Check if it’s listed on a marketplace like GoDaddy or Sedo, or contact the owner directly.
What if the .com is taken but not being used?
You can try to buy it, but if it’s too expensive, choose a smart variation or another extension. A memorable domain is more important than forcing .com at any cost.
Will using .co or .io hurt my SEO?
No. Google treats all domains equally. The only difference is user trust — people are most familiar with .com, so they may click it more often.
Should I change my business name if the domain is taken?
Not always. If small tweaks or a different extension still feel aligned with your brand, go with that. Only change your business name if the conflict is serious (like a trademark issue).
Final Thoughts
If the domain you wanted is taken, don’t let it stall your business launch. You still have options: buy it, tweak it, or pick a strong alternative. The best domain is one that’s short, clear, and easy to remember — not necessarily the first one you searched for.