Free domain
A free domain usually means either (1) a first-year domain bundled with paid hosting, or (2) a free subdomain on someone else’s platform. True perpetual free ownership of a real .com is rare outside promotional credits.
Quick answer
Common paths:
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Hostinger / IONOS / similar hosts | Often include a free domain for year one with an annual hosting plan; renewal is billed separately later. |
| GitHub Pages / Netlify / Vercel | Free project subdomains (for example *.github.io); custom domains still need a paid registration. |
| Freenom-style models | Historically offered free exotic TLDs; treat any “forever free” retail .com claim with skepticism. |
| StableDomains↗ | Not a free-domain giveaway: registers real ICANN names paid in USDC/USDT or card, with free WHOIS privacy included. |
Caution
If you need a portable business brand, pay for a standard registration you can transfer. Bundled “free” domains can be harder to move if the hosting contract locks them.