My domain name is taken, what now?
You’ve brainstormed for hours, the brand name is perfect, and you can already picture the logo perfectly. Then you go to the domain checker and the message appears: Unfortunately, this domain name is already taken.
A major setback, but certainly no reason to throw your entire business plan overboard. At Mediawax, we help entrepreneurs every day to establish that strong online identity anyway. Here are your best options.
1. Choose a different extension (TLD)
The .be extension is the standard in Belgium, but the world of domain extensions has grown enormously in recent years. Is the .be taken? Then take a look at:
.com: The international classic.
.vlaanderen or .brussels: For strong local roots.
.shop, .app, .tech, or .agency: Extensions that immediately convey what you do.
2. Add a relevant verb or word
Sometimes a small addition can actually make your domain name stronger. It makes your URL more active and often easier to remember.
Use 'get' or 'go': get[brandname].be or go[brandname].be.
Add 'hello' or 'we are': hallo[brandname].be.
Add your expertise: [brandname]webdesign.be or [brandname]bakkerij.be.
3. Make it location-based
Are you targeting a specific region? Then adding your city or country can help. This is not only useful for availability, but also helps your local findability (Local SEO).
Example: [brandname]gent.be or [brandname]belgie.be.
4. Try to buy the domain name
Sometimes a domain name is taken, but there is no active website on it. The owner might then be holding the name as an investment.
Check the WHOIS data: Sometimes you can trace the owner.
Make an offer: Be prepared for prices ranging from a few hundred to thousands of euros.
Note: At Mediawax, we recommend doing this through an intermediary to avoid driving up the price unnecessarily.
5. Adjust your brand name (slightly)
If you are still in the early stages, this is the moment to take a critical look at your name. Is there a synonym? Can it be shorter? A domain name that is available on all social media channels and as a URL is worth its weight in gold for your branding.
How Mediawax helps you
Choosing the right domain name is a strategic choice. We look not only at what is available, but also at:
Typability: Is the name easy to spell?
Pronunciation: Does it sound logical on the phone?
Future-proofing: Will this name still suit your company in 5 years?
Conclusion
A domain name that is already taken is a detour, not a dead end. With a little creativity and the right extension, you can still build a strong online brand. Are you stuck choosing a domain name?
