The digital landscape is set to witness a significant change this September as Verisign, the registry for .COM domains are preparing for its third consecutive price increase. With this development, website owners, businesses, and individuals must be well-informed about what to expect and how to address the rising costs proactively. This blog post will delve into the implications of the .COM price increase and provide practical tips to get ahead of the game.
Understanding the .COM Price Increase
As September approaches, the domain registration industry is buzzing with upcoming news .COM price hike. The increase applies to all new .COM domain registrations, renewals, and transfers for all registrars. This marks the third price increase under the current contract, implying that further price rises will likely occur from 2026 to 2029. The .COM price increase will go into effect on September 1, 2023.
Lock-In Your Price Now
Considering the anticipated future price hikes, acting now is crucial to secure yours.COM domain at the current price. If you already own a .COM domain, renewing it before the price increase hits will shield you from additional costs for years. By locking in your price, you can effectively safeguard your online presence and avoid any unwelcome surprises in the future.
Implications for Website Owners
Increased Costs
The most immediate impact of the .COM price increase will be higher costs for domain registrations and renewals. Businesses and individuals with multiple domain holdings or premium domain names may face substantial financial burdens.
Strategic Planning
Website owners should reevaluate their domain strategies as prices continue to rise. This might include consolidating domain portfolios, focusing on essential domains, or exploring alternative TLDs to manage expenses effectively.
Domain Squatting Concerns
The higher prices could increase domain squatting, making it challenging for businesses and individuals to acquire desired domain names. Early planning and decisive actions will be crucial to secure suitable domains.
Alternative TLDs
With the .COM price increase, alternative TLDs like .NET, .ORG and newer extensions may become more appealing. However, it's essential to consider the potential impact on brand recognition and credibility before switching.
What You Can Do to Get Ahead
Renew Early
If you own a.COM domain, you should renew it before September 1, 2023, to secure in the current price and avoid price increases for an extended period.
Register in Advance
If you plan to launch a new website or venture, register yours .COM domain in advance to take advantage of the existing lower prices.
Consider Alternatives
Explore alternative TLDs if they align with your branding and business goals. However, weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.
Evaluate Your Portfolio
For those with multiple domains, reassess your portfolio and decide which domains are essential for your online presence. This could reduce costs and streamline your web presence.
Conclusion
As the .COM price increase looms, and website owners and businesses must prepare for the changes ahead. Securing your .COM domain before the September hike can provide peace of mind and financial savings in the long run. Embrace strategic planning, consider alternatives, and stay ahead of the curve to ensure your online presence remains strong and resilient amid the evolving digital landscape.
