How To Change Domain Name On Hostinger

Introduction

How To Change Domain Name On Hostinger: Changing your domain name on Hostinger can be a crucial step in rebranding your online presence or rectifying a previous choice. Whether you’re transitioning from an old domain, pursuing a fresh identity, or simply seeking a better-suited name for your website, this guide will provide you with the comprehensive knowledge and confidence you need to navigate the process seamlessly.

Hostinger, a popular web hosting provider, offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies domain management. However, altering your domain name is a task that should be undertaken with care to avoid any disruptions to your website’s functionality and search engine rankings. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from the initial considerations and domain selection to the technical aspects of implementing the change.

You’ll have the expertise to successfully change your domain name on Hostinger, ensuring your website maintains its online presence while adopting a new and improved identity. So, let’s dive in and make your domain transition a smooth and trouble-free experience.

How do I change my existing domain name?

What do I need to do to change my domain name?

1.Back up your website.

2.Change your domain name.

3.Choose a new domain name.

4.Redirect your old content to your new domain name.

5.Tell Google and other search engines about your domain name change.

Changing your existing domain name involves a few steps and careful consideration to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a concise guide on how to do it:

Choose a New Domain: First, select a new domain name that aligns better with your brand or goals. Ensure it’s available for registration.

Backup Your Website: Before making any changes, back up all your website data, including files, databases, and configurations. This is essential to prevent data loss during the transition.

Update Content: Update all internal links, references, and content on your website to reflect the new domain name.

Contact Your Hosting Provider: Inform your web hosting provider about the domain change. They can guide you through the process, offer technical support, and ensure that your website remains functional during the transition.

Update DNS Records: Log in to your domain registrar’s account and update the DNS (Domain Name System) records to point to your new hosting server. This step may take some time to propagate across the internet.

301 Redirects: Implement 301 redirects from the old domain to the new one. This ensures that visitors and search engines are automatically directed to the new domain, preserving your SEO rankings.

Monitor and Test: Continuously monitor your website’s functionality and performance after the change. Test links, forms, and other interactive elements to ensure they work correctly.

Update Marketing Materials: Update all marketing materials, including business cards, social media profiles, and email signatures, to reflect the new domain name.

Changing a domain name is a significant undertaking that requires planning and careful execution. By following these steps and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can successfully transition to a new domain while minimizing disruptions to your online presence.

Can you change your free domain on Hostinger?

When using Hostinger Website Builder, you can easily change the domain name. In hPanel, go to Websites, and find the website in question. Then, click on the ellipsis ⋯ button and select Change domain: Confirm that you understand that all email data related to the domain will be deleted and click Change.

Hostinger offered free subdomains as part of their hosting packages, but changing these free subdomains to a custom domain or replacing them with another free subdomain might not be a straightforward process. However, Hostinger’s policies and features may have evolved since then, so official website or contacting their customer support for the most up-to-date information.

When using a free subdomain provided by a hosting service like Hostinger, it’s important to understand that these subdomains are tied to your hosting account and are usually not meant to be changed freely. If you want a custom domain or wish to switch to another subdomain, you may need to consider purchasing a separate domain name or making specific arrangements with Hostinger support.

Visit Hostinger’s official website: Go to Hostinger’s official website and navigate to their support or FAQ section to find information on changing or replacing free subdomains.

Contact Hostinger Support: Reach out to Hostinger’s customer support team via live chat, email, or phone to inquire about the possibility of changing your free subdomain and to get personalized guidance on your specific situation.

Consider Purchasing a Custom Domain: If changing your free subdomain proves to be challenging, you can always purchase a custom domain separately and connect it to your Hostinger hosting account.

Remember that hosting providers may have different policies and procedures regarding domain changes, so it’s essential to consult with Hostinger directly for the most accurate and current information.

How do I reset my domain on Hostinger?

For Domains Registered at Hostinger

1.Go to the Domains section and click on Manage next to the domain.

2.On the left menu, go to the DNS/Nameservers subsection.

3.Once on the DNS Zone, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on 4.Reset DNS Records.

4.Read the confirmation message and click on Reset to proceed.

Hostinger’s specific procedures and interfaces may change, but here is a general guideline on how to reset or manage your domain on Hostinger:

Log into Your Hostinger Account: Start by logging into your Hostinger account through their website using your username and password.

Access the Domain Management Section: Once logged in, navigate to the domain management section. This might be labeled as “Domains,” “Domain Management,” or something similar in your Hostinger dashboard.

Select the Domain to Reset: Locate the domain you want to reset within the domain management panel and click on it. This action will typically take you to a page with more detailed options for that specific domain.

Look for Reset or Restore Options: In the domain’s detailed settings, you should be able to find options related to resetting or restoring the domain. This may include options to reset DNS settings, revert to default settings, or other similar actions.

Follow On-Screen Instructions: Hostinger often provides on-screen instructions to guide you through the reset process. Be sure to read and follow these instructions carefully.

Confirm and Complete the Reset: After making your selections, confirm the reset action. Hostinger may ask for your confirmation to ensure that you want to proceed with the reset.

Wait for Propagation: DNS changes can take some time to propagate across the internet. Be patient, and your domain settings should be reset according to your selections.

If you encounter any difficulties or cannot find the reset options in your Hostinger dashboard, consider reaching out to Hostinger’s customer support for personalized assistance, as their interface and processes may have evolved since my last update.

Can I sell my domain name in Hostinger?

Yes, you can sell your domain on Hostinger. Hostinger offers a domain marketplace where you can list your domain for sale and connect with potential buyers. To sell your domain on Hostinger, you will need to follow these steps: Log in to your Hostinger account and go to the “Domains” section.

Hostinger primarily focuses on web hosting services and domain registration, but it may not provide a dedicated domain marketplace for selling domain names. However, you can still sell your domain name registered with Hostinger by following these general steps:

Determine Domain Value: Before selling your domain, assess its value. Factors like domain length, keyword relevance, and the demand for similar domains can influence its price. You may want to use domain appraisal tools or consult with domain experts to gauge its worth.

List Your Domain: To sell your domain, you’ll need to list it on domain marketplaces and auction platforms like Sedo, GoDaddy Auctions, Namecheap, or Afternic. These websites have dedicated sections for buying and selling domain names.

Set a Price: Determine a selling price for your domain. Some marketplaces allow you to set a fixed price, while others offer auction-style listings where buyers can bid.

Provide Details: Write a compelling description of your domain, highlighting its value and potential uses. High-quality images or logos related to the domain can also make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Negotiate and Transfer: Once a buyer expresses interest and you agree on a price, you’ll need to initiate the domain transfer process. This typically involves unlocking the domain, obtaining an authorization code, and confirming the transfer with the domain registrar (Hostinger in this case).

Complete the Sale: After the transfer is complete, you should receive payment from the buyer through the chosen marketplace. Ensure all legal and financial aspects of the sale are handled appropriately.

It’s important to note that Hostinger may have updated its services or policies since my last knowledge update, so official website or contacting their customer support for any domain-related services they may offer.

How do I initiate the process of changing my domain name on Hostinger? 

To initiate the process of changing your domain name on Hostinger, follow these steps:

Log into Your Hostinger Account: Start by logging into your Hostinger account using your credentials. This will give you access to the hosting control panel.

Access the Domain Management Section: Once you’re logged in, navigate to the domain management section. This is typically located in the control panel, and it might be labeled as “Domains,” “Domain Management,” or something similar.

Select the Domain to Change: In the domain management section, you’ll see a list of the domains associated with your Hostinger account. Choose the domain that you want to change.

Find the Option to Change the Domain Name: Look for an option or button that allows you to change the domain name. Hostinger may use different terms like “Change Domain,” “Edit Domain,” or “Update Domain.” Click on this option.

Enter the New Domain Name: In the next screen, you’ll be prompted to enter the new domain name you wish to use. Ensure that the new domain name is available and not already in use by someone else.

Review and Confirm: Hostinger will likely provide you with a summary of the changes you’re about to make. Review this information carefully to ensure it’s correct, as changing a domain name is a significant step.

Complete the Process: Once you’re satisfied with the details, confirm the changes. Hostinger will then process the request to change your domain name.

Update DNS and Website Settings: After the domain name change is confirmed, don’t forget to update your DNS records and website settings to ensure your website functions correctly with the new domain.

Keep in mind that the process may vary slightly depending on the hosting plan and interface version you’re using on Hostinger. Always refer to Hostinger’s official documentation or contact their support team for specific guidance if needed.

What factors should I consider when selecting a new domain name for my website on Hostinger? 

Choosing the right domain name for your website on Hostinger is a critical decision that can significantly impact your online presence and brand. Here are several important factors to consider when selecting a new domain name:

Relevance to Your Content: Your domain name should reflect the content, purpose, or theme of your website. It should give visitors a clear idea of what your site is about.

Brand Identity: If your website represents a business or brand, the domain name should align with your brand’s identity and values. Consistency is key for brand recognition.

Memorability: A memorable domain name is easy to recall and type. Avoid long or complex names with special characters or hyphens, which can be confusing.

Keywords: Including relevant keywords in your domain name can improve search engine visibility. However, don’t overstuff it with keywords, as this can appear spammy.

Uniqueness: Ensure that your domain name is distinctive and not easily confused with other established websites. It should stand out in a crowded digital landscape.

Domain Extension: Choose an appropriate domain extension (e.g., .com, .net, .org) based on your website’s purpose. While .com is popular and versatile, other extensions can be relevant for specific niches.

Avoid Copyright and Trademarks: Steer clear of domain names that infringe on trademarks or copyrights. Legal issues can arise if you choose a name too similar to an existing brand.

Future Expansion: Consider your long-term goals. Will your website expand to cover more topics or services? Choose a name that accommodates potential growth.

User Experience: Ensure that your domain name is easy to spell and pronounce. This enhances user experience and word-of-mouth referrals.

Social Media Availability: Check if the chosen domain name is available on social media platforms. Consistency across your online presence is important.

Domain History: Research the history of the domain name you’re considering. It’s best to avoid domains with a dubious past, as they may have been associated with spam or other issues.

Taking these factors into account will help you select a domain name that not only represents your website effectively but also contributes to its long-term success and credibility in the digital world.

Can I change my domain name on Hostinger without affecting my website’s search engine rankings?

Changing your domain name on Hostinger can impact your website’s search engine rankings, but there are steps you can take to minimize the negative effects and potentially maintain or even improve your SEO performance.

301 Redirects: Implement 301 redirects from your old domain to the new one. This tells search engines and users that your content has permanently moved, preserving the SEO value of your old URLs.

Update Internal Links: Make sure all internal links on your website are updated to point to the new domain. This helps search engine crawlers discover and index your new content.

Update Sitemaps: Submit an updated XML sitemap to search engines, reflecting the change in URLs. This aids in the reindexing process.

Inform Google Search Console: Notify Google of the domain change using Google Search Console. This tool provides a dedicated feature for this purpose and offers valuable insights into the transition.

Update Backlinks: If possible, reach out to websites linking to your old domain and request that they update their links to your new domain. Natural backlinks are a crucial ranking factor.

Monitor Performance: Keep a close eye on your website’s performance and rankings after the domain change. Be prepared for some fluctuation in rankings, which can be temporary.

Quality Content: Continue to produce high-quality, relevant content. Good content remains a key driver of SEO success.

Patience: SEO changes take time to settle. It may take several weeks or even months for your new domain to regain its previous rankings fully.

While it’s possible to change your domain name without severely impacting your SEO, there are no guarantees. It’s essential to plan the transition carefully, follow SEO best practices, and monitor your website’s performance diligently to address any issues that may arise. Consulting with an SEO expert can also be beneficial to ensure a smooth domain name change with minimal SEO disruptions.

Are there any potential risks or pitfalls I should be aware of when changing my domain name on Hostinger?

Yes, there are potential risks and pitfalls to be aware of when changing your domain name on Hostinger:

SEO Impact: Changing your domain can lead to a temporary drop in search engine rankings. Despite best practices, search engines may take time to reindex and rank your new domain.

Broken Links: If you don’t properly set up 301 redirects, you risk creating broken links on your website. This can result in a poor user experience and negatively impact SEO.

Loss of Brand Identity: Changing your domain may confuse loyal visitors who are accustomed to your old web address. It could temporarily affect your brand identity and recognition.

Inbound Links: You may lose some of the SEO benefits from inbound links if external sites don’t update their links to your new domain.

Email Disruption: If you use domain-specific email addresses, you’ll need to reconfigure your email settings, which can lead to temporary email disruptions.

Technical Challenges: The domain change process can be technically complex, and errors in configuration can lead to website downtime or other issues.

Cost: Depending on your hosting plan, there may be additional costs associated with changing your domain name, such as domain registration fees.

Legal Issues: Be cautious not to infringe on trademarks or copyrights when selecting a new domain name, as this can lead to legal complications.

To mitigate these risks, thorough planning is essential. Follow best practices for SEO, set up proper redirects, inform your audience, and monitor your website’s performance closely during and after the transition. Consulting with a professional or Hostinger’s support team can also provide valuable guidance to minimize potential pitfalls and ensure a successful domain name change.

Conclusion

Changing your domain name on Hostinger is a transformative process that requires careful planning and execution. Throughout this guide, we’ve equipped you with the knowledge and step-by-step instructions needed to make this transition confidently and seamlessly.

Remember that your domain is not just a web address; it’s a vital part of your online identity. Whether you’re rebranding, improving your site’s relevance, or addressing other reasons for the change, Hostinger offers a user-friendly environment to facilitate this transition.

During the journey outlined in this guide, you’ve learned about important considerations, domain selection strategies, and the technical aspects of implementing the change. We’ve emphasized the need for caution to prevent disruptions to your website’s functionality and maintain your search engine rankings.

You’ve ensured that your online presence evolves while preserving your hard-earned web traffic and reputation. With your new domain name successfully in place, you’re now ready to embark on a fresh chapter of your online journey with confidence and clarity.