How to Get a Free Domain in 2024 

Starting a new website can be costly, and finding an affordable domain name is often a challenge. High upfront costs can be a barrier, especially for growing businesses looking to establish their online presence without overspending.  

At Domain.com, we offer free domain names with many of our web hosting plans, depending on availability. This means you can start building your website without the initial expense of a domain name. While domains require renewal at a standard rate after the first year, you’ll benefit from all the features in your hosting plan.   

Getting a free domain name with a Web Hosting plan  

Domain.com offers a variety of web hosting plans designed to meet the needs of new entrepreneurs, small to medium business owners, and growing businesses. Our hosting plans are packed with features to help you build and maintain a professional website.  

Key features of Basic, Plus, and Premium web hosting plans:  

  • Free domain: Free domain registration for the first year is included with all hosting plans, allowing you to establish a professional web address.  
  • Stability: All plans offer a guaranteed uptime of 99.99%, ensuring that users get to your site at a reliable rate.  
  • Unlimited bandwidth: All plans include unlimited bandwidth, ensuring your site can grow without limitations.  
  • Email hosting: Professional email addresses based on your domain name are included, enhancing your business’s credibility.  
  • Website builder: Domain.com’s website builder provides an intuitive platform to create your website, with drag-and-drop functionality and customizable templates.  
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Reliable support is available around the clock to assist with any technical issues or questions.  

 Getting a free domain name with a WordPress Hosting plan  

 When you choose Domain.com’s WordPress hosting, you’re getting a package designed to make managing your WordPress website easy and effective. Here’s what you get:  

  • Automatic WordPress installation: Domain.com makes it simple to set up your WordPress site with just one click. This takes the hassle out of installing WordPress, so you can focus on building your site. 
  • Fast and reliable performance: The servers are set up to ensure your website loads quickly and works smoothly.  
  • Strong security: Your site will have automatic updates, daily backups, and malware scanning to keep your website secure.  
  • Customizable themes and plugins: Get access to thousands of themes and plugins, such as W3 Total Cache and Jetpack, to customize your website.  
  • SEO tools: There are built-in tools to help improve your site’s search engine ranking. 
  • Custom control panel: The control panel is designed to be intuitive to help you manage your site and access all the WordPress tools you need with ease. 
  • Free domain: Get a free memorable domain name for the first year, making it easy to start your WordPress website. 

How to get your free domain: Promo code and eligible extensions  

When purchasing any hosting plan, you can get a free domain by using the promo code “DOMFREE.” This code is valid for one domain registration per order and applies only to the initial term. It’s not applicable to pre-registration, premium domain names, domain transfers, or renewals. 

After the first year, you’ll need to pay the standard rate to continue using your domain. Renewal rates for domains may vary depending on the domain extension, and choosing a longer registration period at renewal can offer better savings.  

Eligible domain extensions for the free domain offer include:  

  • .com  
  • .org  
  • .co  
  • .info  
  • .net  
  • .biz  
  • .us  
  • .online  
  • .site  
  • .store  
  • .website  
  • .tech  
  • .space  

This list is accurate as of July 2024. Please visit Domain.com to confirm if your preferred extension is still included.  

3 alternate ways to get a free domain 

While many opt for hosting plans that include a free domain, there are several other methods to secure a free domain. Each method offers unique benefits and can be a cost-effective solution for your free domain-based needs. Let’s explore these options in more detail.  

Free subdomains  

Some services offer free subdomains as part of their basic plans, which allow users to build and host websites without any upfront cost. For example, you might get a domain like “yoursite.example.com.” 

While these subdomains are great for personal projects or testing ideas, they do have limitations:  

  • Branding: Using a subdomain includes the platform’s branding, which might not be ideal for a professional or business site.  
  • Limited Features: Free plans often come with restricted features and capabilities, prompting users to upgrade to premium plans for more customization and functionality.  

Promotions and coupons  

Domain registrars and hosting providers frequently offer promotions and coupon codes that can include free domain registration. These deals are often tied to other services, such as hosting plans. Here’s how to make the most of these offers:  

  • Stay updated: Regularly check websites like Domain.com for ongoing promotions.  
  • Bundle offers: Look for hosting plans or website builder packages that come with a free domain for the first year. This can be a cost-effective way to get both hosting and a domain.  
  • Seasonal sales: Take advantage of seasonal sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday when companies offer significant discounts and deals.  

Free domain registrar  

Some free domain registrars, such as Freenom, offer free domain registration for specific extensions like .tk, .ml, .ga, .cf, and .gq. These extensions are less common but can be useful for various purposes.  

Free domain name registration under Freenom doesn’t have any transfer rights though. They also offer their own free Freenom DNS service.  

The role of WHOIS Database in domain registration 

The WHOIS database is a publicly accessible database that contains information about domain name registrations. It includes details such as the domain owner’s business name, registration date, expiration date, and more.  

Here’s why the WHOIS database is important: 

  • Transparency: The WHOIS database provides transparency in domain ownership, helping users verify the legitimacy of a domain. 
  • Accountability: By listing contact information, the WHOIS database holds domain owners accountable for their websites and content. 
  • Security: Domain privacy protection services can help keep your personal information private, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to your domain information. 

Frequently asked questions  

How can I get a free domain with a hosting plan?  

Many hosting providers, including Domain.com, offer a free domain for the first year when you purchase a hosting plan. This combines your domain and hosting needs into one package.  

What are free subdomains?  

Free subdomains are offered by platforms like WordPress.com. They provide a domain like “yoursite.wordpress.com” at no cost, which is ideal for personal projects or testing.  

How can I use promotions and coupons to get a free domain?  

Domain registrars frequently offer promotions and coupon codes that can provide a free domain for the first year. Regularly check their websites for deals or subscribe to their newsletters for announcements or updates.  

What are free website domains for specific extensions?  

Certain free domain extensions like .tk, .ml, .ga, .cf, and .gq are available from a free domain provider like Freenom. These extensions are your best bet for smaller projects or experimental websites.  

Are there any limitations with free domains?  

Free domains are often only free for the first year. After that, they must be renewed at the standard rate. Additionally, free domains may come with platform branding and limited features.  

What should I consider when getting a free domain?  

Be mindful of where you get a free domain and consider domain privacy protection to keep your personal information safe from public WHOIS databases.  


Chauncey Roa
Chauncey Roa

Hey, I’m Chauncey, a content writer who loves writing about stuff on the web. On my off days, I love playing strategy games and getting a good workout done.

Chauncey Roa
Chauncey Roa

Hey, I’m Chauncey, a content writer who loves writing about stuff on the web. On my off days, I love playing strategy games and getting a good workout done.