Should I use a .net or .com for my business?
Why .com is usually the first choice
.com is the default for businesses. Customers often assume a company's website ends in .com, so using .net can lead to typos and lost traffic. If you can get a .com that matches your business name, it's usually worth the cost.
However, if the .com is taken by an unrelated business, using .net can be a reasonable alternative. Just be prepared to remind people of your exact address.
When .net makes sense
.net was originally for network providers, but now it's open to everyone. It can work well for tech companies, internet services, or as a secondary domain that redirects to your main site. Some businesses use .net for internal tools or customer portals.
If your brand name is short and the .com is unavailable, a .net can still look professional. But avoid using .net if it creates confusion with a competitor's .com site.
Practical considerations
Check if the .com version of your name is a parked page or an active competitor. If it's a competitor, using .net may cause you to lose traffic. In that case, consider a different name or a more distinctive TLD like .io or .co.
Price-wise, .com and .net renewals are similar, typically $10–$20 per year. Some registrars offer deals, but always check renewal rates.
- Get the .com if you can—it's what customers expect.
- Use .net if the .com is taken and you can't change your name.
- Avoid .net if it conflicts with a competitor's .com.
- Consider .co, .io, or .biz as alternatives.
Common mistakes
- Assuming .net is only for network companies—it's open to all.
- Choosing .net without checking if the .com is a direct competitor.
- Forgetting to renew the .net and losing it to a squatter.