Domains, do’s and dont’s


A domain name plays a role in search engine optimization (SEO), but its importance has diminished over time as search engines like Google have refined their algorithms. Here’s a breakdown of how a domain name affects SEO and rankings:

Key Factors Related to Domain Names and SEO

  1. Relevance of Keywords in Domain Names:
    • In the past, exact match domains (EMDs) like bestshoes.com could significantly boost rankings.
    • Today, while having relevant keywords in your domain can slightly help users understand your site’s focus, it is not a major ranking factor. Google now prioritizes content quality and user experience over EMDs.
  2. Brandability and Memorability:
    • A unique, easy-to-remember domain name can help build brand recognition and encourage repeat visits. This indirectly benefits SEO as users are more likely to click and engage with your site.
  3. Trust and Authority:
    • Domains that appear professional (e.g., .com, .org, .edu) can instill trust in users and search engines. Spammy or low-quality domain extensions might raise red flags.
  4. Domain Age:
    • Older domains with a long-standing, consistent presence might have a slight advantage in authority, but this is not a significant ranking factor compared to content and backlinks.
  5. Backlink Profile:
    • The domain’s history and the quality of backlinks it has accumulated play a much larger role than the name itself. A domain with a strong backlink profile will perform better in rankings.
  6. Subdomains vs. Subfolders:
    • For SEO, subfolders (example.com/blog) are often better than subdomains (blog.example.com) because search engines may treat subdomains as separate entities.
  7. Avoiding Spammy Practices:
    • Stay away from domains that include hyphens or look spammy. These can harm your site’s credibility and ranking.

Best Practices for Choosing an SEO-Friendly Domain Name

  • Keep it Short and Simple: Easier to type and remember.
  • Prioritize Branding: A unique name helps build a strong identity.
  • Use Relevant Keywords: If possible, include a keyword without overdoing it.
  • Choose a Trusted Extension: .com is often preferred, but region-specific extensions (e.g., .co.uk) are fine for local SEO.
  • Check the Domain History: Ensure it doesn’t have a bad reputation or a history of penalties.

What Matters More Than the Domain Name

Modern SEO focuses heavily on:

  • High-quality, relevant content.
  • Strong backlink profile.
  • Mobile-friendly, fast-loading website.
  • Secure (HTTPS) and accessible site structure.
  • Positive user experience and engagement.

In conclusion, while a domain name is a small piece of the SEO puzzle, it’s far less important than factors like content, backlinks, and technical SEO. Choose a domain that aligns with your brand and user intent, and focus your efforts on creating value for your audience.