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How to Change Your Website Address (Domain)

Update your live or development website domain the right way

Changing your website address (domain) is a common step when rebranding, upgrading to a stronger name, or simplifying your URL. This guide explains exactly what to do depending on whether your website is already live or not — and how to avoid losing traffic during the transition.

 

Need to Know

  • You must own the new domain before requesting a change.

  • Your domain provider (GoDaddy, Google Domains, etc.) controls nameservers and redirects.

  • A 301 permanent redirect is Highly Recommended if your site is already live to protect traffic and SEO.

  • Real Geeks Support will complete the change on our end after your domain is properly pointed.

Table of Contents

How to Change Your Domain (If Your Website Is Already Live)

If your website is currently live to the public, follow these steps carefully to avoid losing traffic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Purchase your new domain name through your preferred domain provider.

  2. Log in to your domain provider account.

  3. Update the nameservers of the new domain to point to Real Geeks nameservers.
    (This ensures the new domain connects to your Real Geeks website.)

  4. Submit a ticket to Support requesting a domain change.

    • Clearly include the new domain you want your website changed to.

  5. Wait for confirmation from Support that the change is complete.

  6. After the new domain is live, log back into your domain provider and set up a 301 permanent redirect from your old domain to your new one.

If you are unsure how to set up a redirect, contact your domain provider directly for assistance.

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How to Change Your Domain (If Your Website Is Not Live Yet)

If your website has not been launched publicly, the process is simpler.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Purchase the new domain name.

  2. Submit a ticket to Support and tell us which domain you want to use.

  3. We will update your website domain on our end.

  4. Continue editing your website using your development site.

  5. You will see the new domain once your website is launched.

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What Is a 301 Permanent Redirect?

A 301 permanent redirect automatically sends visitors from your old website address to your new one.

This is extremely important if your site was already live because:

  • Visitors may still type your old domain.

  • Past marketing materials may include the old domain.

  • Search engines need direction to transfer rankings to the new domain.

  • Without it, you risk losing website traffic and lead opportunities.

A 301 redirect protects your online visibility and ensures a smooth transition.

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Best Practices

Changing your domain is a branding decision — treat it like a marketing update.

  • Choose a short, easy-to-spell domain.

  • Avoid hyphens or complicated words. Make your domain memorable, but not difficult!

  • Update your email signature after the change.

  • Update your social media profile with the updated website address

  • Update business cards and marketing materials.

  • Announce the change to your database so leads recognize the new address.

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Troubleshooting

If your new domain is not loading:

  • Confirm the nameservers were updated correctly.

  • Allow up to 24–48 hours for DNS propagation.

  • Confirm Support has completed the domain swap.

  • Make sure your 301 redirect was added only after the new domain is live.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to cancel my old domain?
No. Keep it active so you can apply a 301 redirect.

How long does a domain change take?
Once nameservers are updated and Support completes the change, propagation may take up to 48 hours.

Will this affect my leads?
No. Your leads and CRM remain the same. Only the website address changes.

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