Website & Domains
A small-business website has three jobs: show up when someone searches your name or service, answer the obvious questions (what, where, how much, how to contact), and make it easy to buy or book. A hosted builder handles all of that without code. Keep the domain registered in your own name and account, separate from whoever builds the site, so you never lose control of it.
A matching business email address ([email protected]) builds trust and is easy to set up through Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 or a privacy-focused provider. Once the site is live, run a speed test and an accessibility check; both catch problems that cost you customers and search visibility.
Website builders
Domains & DNS
Hosting
Business email
Site health checks
How to choose
- Register your domain directly with a registrar and turn on auto-renew and two-factor login. Expired domains are a common and painful outage.
- Compare the renewal price, not just the first-year price, for both domains and hosting.
- Choose a builder by the pages you need now: a few service pages and a contact form, a booking system, or a full store.
- Set up SPF, DKIM and DMARC for your email domain so your messages do not land in spam. Most email providers walk you through it.
- Test your homepage on PageSpeed Insights and WAVE after every redesign.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a small-business website cost?
With a hosted builder, expect a domain (often around the price of a meal per year) plus a monthly plan. Custom-built sites cost more up front but may have lower monthly fees. Ask about renewal prices before committing.
Should I use WordPress.com or WordPress.org?
WordPress.com is a hosted service: easier, with plan limits. WordPress.org is the free software you install on your own hosting: more flexible, but you handle updates, backups and security.
Do I need SSL (https) for my website?
Yes. Browsers warn visitors about sites without it. Most builders and hosts include free certificates, often from Let's Encrypt.
Can I use Gmail for my business?
You can, but a domain-based address looks more professional and stays with the business if staff change. Google Workspace gives you Gmail with your own domain.
Descriptions are written by ShopStart and are not endorsements. Features and prices change; confirm details on each provider's official site. Something missing or out of date? Tell us.