How to Register a Domain Name for Free

A step-by-step guide to getting a free domain name using Freenom


Update
Domain name registration through Freenom is no longer available since the service has been discontinued. The instructions below are outdated.

If you are looking to register a domain name now, I recommend checking out reputable domain registrars like Cloudflare or Spaceship. These providers offer reliable service and competitive pricing for various domain extensions.

Before I start, this method only covers registering free domain names with extensions .tk, .ml, .ga, .cf, or .gq. I recommend paying for a .com domain name instead. Here’s how to choose the best domain name registrar. You can compare the prices of different registrars here.

Please note that free domains can be taken down at any time and are commonly used by spammers.

Choose a suitable domain name

First, list all possible domain names you’d like to use. This gives you backups in case your preferred name is taken. Some people combine their first and last names like I do, while others use their nickname or personal brand. The choice is yours.

Search for your domain name

Go to freenom website. Type your first choice in the search bar and check its availability. In this example, I use tehhijau. You’ll see which free domain extensions are available. Important: Don’t click the “get it now” button, as it doesn’t work properly.

Search domain
Search domain

Pick your domain name

Choose your preferred domain extension, then type your complete domain name (including the extension) in the search bar. Your chosen domain will be added to the shopping cart. Click checkout to proceed.

Select domain
Select domain

Review & Checkout

Shopping cart
Shopping cart

In the shopping cart, you can select a registration period of up to 12 months for free. Longer periods require payment. Don’t worry—you can renew for free after one year if you choose the 12-month period. Click continue.

Select period
Select period

Enter your email address to verify your registration. Use a Gmail account, as Freenom doesn’t accept other email providers. (I tried with Hotmail, but it claimed an account already existed with that email, even though I’d never registered before.) Click “verify my email address” to receive a verification link.

User exist
User exist
Review & checkout
Review & checkout

Verify email address

Check your inbox for an email from Freenom containing your verification link. Click the link to verify your email.

Verify email
Verify email

Enter your details

Fill in your name, address, and password to complete your registration. That’s it! You now have your domain name.

Fill in details
Fill in details

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