- Simple domain setup — no tech skills needed
- Guaranteed 99.9% uptime
- Expert 24/7 support
- Free SSL certificate included
- Free domain & SSL certificate
- 99.9% uptime
- Scalable performance management
- AI site creation tools included
- Powers 2M+ websites worldwide
- Free domain & SSL certificate
- Free multi-cloud hosting with your website
- SSL certificate included with a domain
- Global CDN coverage
- Free domain with hosting
- Privacy protection included
- 24/7 chat with experts
- Easy-to-use control panel
- Unmetered disk space & bandwidth
- Drag-and-drop website templates
Top free domain name hosting providers of 2025
In 2025, free domain hosting makes it simple to create a website for free without upfront costs. Many hosting providers now include a free domain name with their plans, allowing individuals, startups, and small businesses to get online quickly. Free domain hosting usually covers the first year of domain registration or offers a permanent subdomain, making it ideal for testing projects or building an online presence at low cost.
When choosing the best option, focus on five key factors:
- Domain type (custom or subdomain).
- Storage and speed.
- Security features.
- Professional email options like a free business domain email.
- Renewal costs.
Most providers include free SSL certificates, website builders, and support services, though limitations such as ads or limited storage may apply. With careful selection, it’s possible to get a domain for free, launch a site, and upgrade later as your needs grow.
What is free domain hosting?
Free domain hosting means you can get a domain for free alongside a hosting plan. Some providers offer this for the first year, while others provide a permanent free subdomain.
- Includes DNS registration and name server management.
- Can support email services, such as a free business domain email.
- Often bundled with website builders so you can create a website for free quickly.
Why free domain hosting is popular in 2025
Free domains are a top trend for startups, side hustles, and personal projects. Instead of paying $10–$20 upfront, you can start with a domain free of charge and upgrade later.
- Lowers entry cost for beginners.
- Bundles often include hosting + email.
- Reddit users value it for testing business ideas affordably.
Key factors when choosing free domain and hosting
Here are the most important features to compare when selecting a provider:
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
Domain type | Custom free domain (1 year) or free subdomain |
Storage & speed | Enough resources for your site’s content |
Security | SSL certificate and malware protection |
Option to create a free business domain email | |
Renewal cost | Transparent fees after the free period |
GoDaddy
How does free domain hosting work?
When you enter a domain name, the DNS connects to your host’s servers, which route traffic to your website. A free domain host:
- Registers your domain with the DNS.
- Keeps name servers active for uptime.
- Forwards requests to your hosting server.
Essential glossary
- Domain Name: The address people type to find your site.
- Registrar: Company that manages domain registration.
- IP Address: A unique identifier for each site or server.
- Uptime: The percentage of time your site stays online (99% uptime = ~3–4 days offline per year).
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Free domains often last only one year before renewal fees apply.
- Limited TLD options (like .com, .net, or subdomains only).
- Auto-renewal may trigger unexpected charges.
- Some providers display ads or restrict storage.
*AI was used in the creation of this content, along with human validation and proofreading.
Our Top 3 Picks
- 1exceptional9.8A comprehensive selection of hosting plansA comprehensive selection of hosting plansRead GoDaddy Review
You’ll no doubt be familiar with GoDaddy, the somewhat snarky, slightly scandalous, and seriously silly hosting service that combines humor and website hosting in a professional and reliable way. Between that and perks like affordable pricing, 99.9% uptime, and a free SSL certificate with most plans, GoDaddy is a great deal.
GoDaddy Pros & Cons
PROS
One-click install for Drupal, WordPress, JoomlaGlobal data centersLoads of hosting plans to chooseCONS
Content isn’t transferred over themesPricing disclosure is not transparent - 2excellent9.3Wide choice of hosting optionsWide choice of hosting optionsRead IONOS Review
1&1 IONOS offers a wide variety of hosting options ranging from shared and WordPress-optimized hosting to dedicated servers and VPNs.
IONOS Pros & Cons
PROS
Wide variety of hosting packagesFast SSD storage99.9% uptimeCONS
Higher prices after 1st yearEmail limit on lower tiers - 3excellent9.0Comprehensive hosting plans with perks includedComprehensive hosting plans with perks includedRead Bluehost Review
With more than 2 million websites internationally, Bluehost is one of the most popular web hosting services in the industry. And that’s not hard to understand when you look at what’s being offered. 1-click WordPress installation, 24/7 expert support from trained professionals, and a 30-day money-back guarantee are just a few of the reasons we’re so impressed by Bluehost.
Bluehost Pros & Cons
PROS
Outstanding customer supportSuite of added web toolsUnlimited bandwidth and storageCONS
Have to pay for site transferA lot of upselling