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How Do I Buy a Domain Name? Print

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Applies to: everyone — you don't need an existing Webtech account

Buying a domain through Webtech takes about five minutes. Here's the whole process, from search to ownership.

Step 1: Search for your domain

  1. Go to our domain registration page.
  2. Type the name you want into the search box and click Search. The results show whether the name is available in each extension.
  3. Pick the extension that suits you. For South African businesses, .co.za is the natural choice and also the most affordable; .com gives international reach; alternatives like .org.za, .net and .africa are also available. Current pricing is shown right on the search page.

The domain search page with available extensions and pricing

If your first choice is taken, try a variation — a different extension, or a slightly different wording. See Top Tips for Choosing a Great Domain Name for ideas.

Step 2: Add to cart and check out

  1. Click to add the available domain to your cart.
  2. You'll be offered optional extras and hosting — add a hosting package now if you want your website and email running on the same order, or register just the domain by itself. A domain on its own is perfectly fine; you can add hosting any time later.
  3. Review your cart and click through to checkout.
  4. Log in, or fill in your details to create your account — these become the domain's registered contact details, so use accurate information and a reliable email address.
  5. Pay by card or Instant EFT via Payfast, or by manual bank transfer (EFT) using the details on your invoice.

Step 3: You're done — what happens next

Once payment reflects, the domain is registered to you automatically — usually within minutes for card and Instant EFT payments. You'll see it under Domains > My Domains in your client area, where you can manage its DNS, nameservers and contact details.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I own the domain for?
Registrations run for one year at a time and renew annually. Keep Auto Renew on so a renewal invoice is generated before expiry — see How to turn domain Auto Renew on or off.

Can I buy a domain before my website is ready?
Absolutely — in fact we recommend it. Registering early secures the name so nobody else can take it while you build.

I already own the domain at another provider — can I move it to Webtech?
Yes. That's a transfer rather than a purchase — see How to Transfer Your Domain to Webtech.

Related articles

How Do I Check if a Domain Name is Available? • Top Tips for Choosing a Great Domain Name • How to Transfer Your Domain to Webtech


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