Should you buy multiple domain names for one website?

So, you’ve found the perfect domain name. It’s short, memorable, and available. But you also notice that other versions of it are up for grabs. Do you really need to buy those too?

The short answer is yes. At the very least, you should secure a matching pair like ".com.au" and ".com".

Your domain name is your online identity. It should lead people directly to your business and no one else's. Too often, I’ve seen clients skip buying domain variations to save a small amount each year, only to regret it when a competitor or even a spammy ad site grabs the version they didn’t buy.

That’s why every Sitebuilder Business Subscription we offer includes two domains by default. It’s a simple and effective way to protect your brand.

Why Would Someone Buy a Version of My Domain?

Usually, it's to take advantage of your success.

Imagine a potential customer leaving off the ".au" at the end of your domain and ending up on a completely different website. What if that site is full of ads, or even worse, tries to sell them something shady? That small mistake could cost you business and damage your credibility.

It can also dilute your search engine rankings. When multiple websites use similar names, it can confuse both users and Google, making your site harder to find.

Aren’t Extra Domains Expensive?

Not really. Domains are cheap compared to the cost of lost traffic, brand confusion, or a negative customer experience. For a few extra dollars a year, you get peace of mind and added protection.

Should I Buy More Than Just Two?

That depends on your goals.

• If you’re an Australian business, owning both the ".com.au" and ".com" versions is usually enough.
  
• If you're an organisation, consider adding ".org.au" and ".org" to cover both local and international branding.
  
• If you plan to expand overseas, it may be worth looking into region-specific domains like ".co.uk", ".nz", or ".asia".
  

What Do I Do With Extra Domains?

After purchasing your domains:

• Choose one to be your Primary Domain. This is where your website and email will be hosted.
  
• 301 Redirect the others to your primary. This prevents search engines from indexing duplicate content and ensures all your traffic lands in the right place.

This setup makes sure nobody else can hijack your traffic or damage your brand with a similar domain name.

Contact Jon Web Design for Advice

Your domain is a key part of your business identity. Domains are cheap, but your reputation isn't. Let me help you take the small step of securing your brand now so you don't pay a bigger price later.