How to Get a Website Domain in Kenya

Getting a domain name is the first step to building a strong online presence. A domain is the unique address people use to find your website, like yourbusiness.co.ke. It gives your brand credibility, makes it easier for customers to find you, and helps you look professional.

Step 1: Choose the Right Domain Name

Pick a name that matches your business. Keep it short, simple, and easy to remember. If your company is called ABC Properties Limited, try to register something like abcproperties.co.ke or abcproperties.com. Shorter is better and more trustworthy.

Step 2: Pick the Right Domain Extension

Decide who your target audience is:

• If you’re focused on the Kenyan market, go for .co.ke or .ke
• If your business targets a global audience, choose .com

Step 3: Choose Where to Buy Your Domain

There are two main options:

International Domain Providers (Good for .com or other global domains):

• Namecheap
• GoDaddy
• Hostinger
• Porkbun

Local Kenyan Providers (Good for .ke domains and M-Pesa payments):

• Kenya Web Experts
• HostPoa

If you're paying with M-Pesa, local providers are easier. If you have an M-Pesa Global card, you can also buy from international platforms.

Step 4: Register the Domain in Your Own Name

Always register the domain under your own name and email, not your developer’s. If there’s ever a disagreement, you’ll still have full control. Whoever’s email is on the domain technically owns it.

Step 5: Make Sure You Can Manage It

After buying the domain, make sure your provider gives you access to manage your DNS settings. This is important when setting up your email or connecting your website to the domain.

Step 6: Don’t Let It Expire

Domains are usually paid for one year at a time. Add a reminder to your calendar a few weeks before the expiry date so you can renew on time. Losing your domain can hurt your brand.

Step 7: Set Up a Free Business Email

Once you have your domain, you can use a free tool like Zoho Mail to create a custom email like info@yourdomain.co.ke. It looks more professional than a Gmail or Yahoo address.

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