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Choosing a Domain Name

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Website & E‑Commerce Basics
This module introduces learners to the core concepts behind websites and online stores. Students explore how websites work (domains, hosting, CMS vs hosted platforms) and gain a clear understanding of different website and e-commerce models. The module covers foundational platforms such as WordPress, WooCommerce, and Shopify, including their purpose, strengths, and common use cases. Learners also review essential setup concepts like site structure, navigation, basic SEO, and store functionality.
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How Websites Work (domains, hosting)
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CMS vs Hosted Platforms
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Intro to WordPress & Shopify
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Types of Websites and Online Stores
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Domains, Hosting & Setup
This module explains the foundational components required to launch a website or online store. Learners explore how domain names work, how web hosting stores and delivers website content, and the role of DNS in connecting the two. The module also introduces hosting types, setup considerations, and basic installation workflows for platforms like WordPress and Shopify. By the end of the module, learners can confidently choose a domain, understand hosting options, and complete the initial setup needed to get a website online.
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Choosing a Domain Name
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Web Hosting Basics
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Installing WordPress (local & live)
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Creating a Shopify Account
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WordPress Dashboard & Settings
This module introduces learners to the WordPress admin dashboard and its core settings. Students explore the layout of the dashboard, key menu areas, and the purpose of essential settings such as site title, permalinks, user roles, reading, and discussion options. The module emphasizes how proper configuration affects site usability, SEO, and security. By the end of the module, learners can confidently navigate the WordPress dashboard and configure settings to support a well-structured, functional website.
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WordPress Dashboard & Settings
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WordPress Admin Overview
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Pages, Posts, Media
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Permalinks & User Roles
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Themes & Customization
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Block Editor vs Page Builders
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Using Elementor in WordPress
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Responsive Design Basics
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Backups, Updates & Security
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Shopify Platform Overview
This module introduces learners to Shopify as a leading hosted e-commerce platform. Students explore its key features, including store setup, themes, apps, and integrations, and understand how Shopify simplifies online selling for businesses of all sizes. By the end of the module, learners can explain Shopify’s functionality, identify its advantages, and determine when it is the right platform for an online store.
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Shopify Ecosystem
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Shopify vs WooCommerce
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Admin Dashboard Tour
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Themes & Customization
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Products & Collections
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Navigation & Pages
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SEO for Shopify
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Email & Social Selling
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Analytics & Reporting
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Launch & Maintenance
This module guides learners through the final steps of preparing, launching, and maintaining an online store. Students explore pre-launch checklists, performance testing, ongoing updates, backups, security, and routine maintenance for both Shopify and WordPress sites. The module emphasizes best practices for keeping stores secure, fast, and operational post-launch. By the end of the module, learners can confidently launch a website or store and implement a consistent maintenance routine to ensure long-term stability and growth.
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Pre‑launch Checklists
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Performance Testing
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Ongoing Maintenance (Shopify)
Ongoing Maintenance (WordPress)
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Website Security & Account Protection
By the end of this lesson, learners will understand why website security matters, how accounts get hacked, and how to protect websites and online accounts using simple, everyday tools like strong passwords and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
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What Is Website Security?
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Common Website Security Threats
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Password Security Basics
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Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
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Website-Level Security Tools
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Everyday Security Habits
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Website Learning Lab

Module Overview

This lesson teaches learners how to choose a strong, memorable, and effective domain name for their website or online store. A domain name is critical for branding, online visibility, and search engine performance.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

  • Understand what a domain name is

  • Identify best practices for selecting a domain name

  • Avoid common mistakes when choosing domains

  • Use tools to check domain availability

  • Make a final decision on a domain name for their business

Lesson 1: What Is a Domain Name?

A domain name is the unique, human-readable address of a website on the internet, such as www.example.com. It acts as the website’s “street address,” allowing users to find and access the site without needing to remember a numerical IP address. A domain name consists of a name (like “example”) and an extension (like .com, .org, or .shop) and is registered through a domain registrar. Choosing a clear, memorable domain helps establish a website’s brand, credibility, and online presence.

A domain name is the address people type into a browser to access your website (e.g., www.yourbusiness.com).

  • Domains are rented and must be renewed, typically annually.

  • Each domain maps to a hosting server via DNS (Domain Name System).

Lesson 2: Best Practices for Choosing a Domain

  1. Keep It Short and Simple

    • Easy to spell and remember

  2. Use Keywords (Optional)

    • Helps with search visibility, but don’t overstuff

  3. Avoid Numbers and Hyphens

    • Can confuse users

  4. Choose the Right Domain Extension

    • .com (commercial), .org (organization), .net (tech), or niche-specific (.shop, .store)

  5. Make It Brandable

    • Unique and easy to associate with your business

  6. Think Long-Term

    • Avoid trends; pick something that will last

Lesson 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using complicated spellings or long names

  • Choosing a domain similar to competitors

  • Ignoring trademark issues

  • Not securing multiple variations or extensions

Lesson 4: Domain Name Tools

  • Namecheap – domain search and registration

  • GoDaddy – domain search with suggestions

  • Google Domains – simple domain management

  • Lean Domain Search – creative domain name ideas

Lesson 5: Securing Your Domain

  • Check availability using domain search tools

  • Register for at least 1–2 years initially

  • Consider privacy protection (WHOIS guard)

  • Renew before expiration to avoid losing it

Practical Activity

  • Brainstorm 5 potential domain names for your business.

  • Check their availability using one of the domain search tools.

  • Pick your top choice and explain why it’s a good fit.

Key Takeaways

  • Your domain is your online address and brand identifier

  • Keep it simple, memorable, and relevant

  • Use tools to check availability and secure it early

  • Avoid common pitfalls to prevent future issues

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