If you’re starting your very first blog, WordPress is the perfect platform. It’s user-friendly, customizable, and powerful enough to grow with you. But before you can build your blog, you need two critical components: a WordPress website domain and hosting.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down everything new bloggers need to know about setting up a WordPress website—from domains to hosting—so you can launch with confidence.
What Is a WordPress Website Domain?
Your WordPress website domain is your blog’s address on the internet—what people type in the browser to visit your site (like). It's your online identity, so choosing a memorable, brandable domain name is key.
Here’s what you need to know:
A domain must be registered through a domain registrar (some hosting companies offer it free with a plan).
Domains usually cost $10–$15/year, unless bundled with hosting.
Choose something short, simple, and easy to spell.
Try to use
.com
when possible for credibility.
What Is WordPress Hosting?
Once you’ve chosen a domain, the next step is hosting. Web hosting is where your site files are stored. Hosting makes your domain functional by connecting it to your actual WordPress site.
There are several types of hosting for WordPress:
Shared Hosting – Cheapest, suitable for small blogs.
Managed WordPress Hosting – Ideal for beginners who want automatic updates, security, and fast performance.
VPS/Cloud Hosting – More powerful, but more technical.
How Domain and Hosting Work Together
Think of your WordPress website domain as your house address, and your hosting as the land the house sits on. Both are essential—you need a domain to be found and hosting to actually exist.
You have two options:
Buy a domain and hosting together (recommended for beginners). Many hosting companies like Bluehost or Hostinger offer a free domain when you buy a hosting plan.
Buy a domain separately and connect it manually to your hosting provider.
Steps to Set Up a WordPress Blog (with Domain & Hosting)
Choose and register your domain name
Pick a beginner-friendly hosting plan
Install WordPress (usually one click)
Connect your domain to your WordPress site (often automatic)
Log in, choose a theme, and start blogging!
Tips for Choosing the Right Domain Name
Use keywords related to your blog niche
Avoid numbers or hyphens
Keep it under 15 characters
Check for social media handle availability
Use tools like Namecheap or GoDaddy’s domain search
Recommended Hosting Providers with Free Domain
Here are beginner-friendly hosting services that offer both hosting and a free WordPress website domain:
777Hosting – Officially recommended by WordPress, free domain for 1 year.
Hostcraft – Affordable and easy to set up.
SiteGround – Excellent performance and support.
DreamHost – Includes domain, SSL, and 1-click WordPress install.
Final Thoughts
If you're new to blogging, don’t let technical terms hold you back. All you need to launch a successful WordPress blog is a domain name and hosting. Once you’ve secured your WordPress website domain and set up your hosting, WordPress makes it easy to start creating and sharing your content with the world.
Your blog’s journey starts with a name and the right place to call home online.