How to check if a domain name is available
- Type the name you want in the box above. You can enter just the name, such as mybusiness, or a full domain, such as mybusiness.co.uk.
- See the results instantly. We check the most popular endings at the same time, so you can see which are free and what they cost.
- Tick the ones you want and continue to checkout. Your domain is usually ready within minutes.
Our checker looks up each domain live, so the results show whether it can be registered right now, not just whether a website is showing on it.
What the results mean
| Result | What it means |
|---|---|
| ✓ Available | Nobody owns this domain. You can register it straight away at the price shown. |
| ✕ Taken | Someone has already registered it, even if there's no website on it yet. |
| Restrictions apply | The ending has extra rules set by its registry. You'll see the details before checkout. |
What to do if your domain is taken
It's common for a first choice to be taken, especially as a .com. You still have plenty of options:
- Try a different ending. A name that's taken as a .com is often free as a .co.uk or .uk.
- Add a word. Your location or what you do, such as mybusinessbristol.co.uk or mybusinessbakery.co.uk, often works well.
- Get fresh ideas. Our free business name generator suggests names and only shows ones you can register.
Our guide to domain name ideas when your first choice is taken has eight more ways to find a great alternative.
Which domain ending should you choose?
For a business selling mainly in the UK, a .co.uk is the ending customers know and trust. If you sell worldwide, a .com is the natural choice. We recommend securing both where you can, so nobody else can use your name if your business takes off.
Read our full comparison: .co.uk vs .com vs .uk: which should you choose?
Before you register
Could someone spell it after hearing it once? Avoid hyphens and numbers if you can.
Short names are easier to remember, type and fit on a logo or van.
Search the GOV.UK trade mark register so you don't clash with an existing brand.
Your domain can also power a professional address like hello@yourdomain.co.uk.
Common questions
Is the domain name checker free?
Yes. You can check as many domain names as you like, with no sign-up. You only pay if you choose to register a domain.
How do I know if a domain name is available?
Type the name into our domain name checker. It checks each domain live and shows straight away whether each ending is available or already taken, along with the price.
Why is a domain taken when there's no website on it?
Many people register domains without building a website, or keep them for future plans or to protect a brand. If a domain is registered, it can't be registered again until the owner lets it expire.
Can I buy a domain that's already taken?
Sometimes. If the owner is willing to sell, you may be able to buy it from them, but prices vary and they don't have to sell. A good available alternative is usually quicker and cheaper.
How long does it take to register a domain?
Usually just a few minutes. Once your order is complete, the domain is yours and you can use it for a website or email.
Should I register more than one ending?
It's worth registering your main ending plus the .com or .co.uk, if they're available. It protects your name and stops customers ending up on someone else's website.
Check another domain name
Search as many names as you like. It only takes a few seconds.
