Shopify is an e-commerce platform that merchants around the world use to sell their goods and services. As many sellers already have a domain before using Shopify, it is important to note that you can use a domain you previously made on the online e-commerce platform.

What is Shopify?

In recent years, online shopping has become more popular, with many merchants opting to close their physical stores altogether. Since 2004, Shopify has become one of the most popular e-commerce platforms for merchants around the world. The e-commerce site utilizes Fastly, a Content Delivery Network, to provide a multitude of services including edge software development kits, content delivery, image optimization, video and streaming services, and cloud security for customers, allowing your company to provide customers with an exceptional online experience.

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What Is a Domain?

Simply put, a domain name is your website’s name. When you have a domain, your customers will be able to access your site with confidence, and you will be able to build the necessary trust for your business to succeed. Your domain name does not have to follow any specific guidelines, and you can be as creative as you want by using a mixture of letters and numbers. When having an online store, it is important to note that your domain should accurately reflect your company, because this is how your customers will remember you and return for future business.

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Can You Use Your Own Domain?

Upon signing up for Shopify, you will be given a pre-built domain ending in “myshopify.com”. Although this domain may work for some, others will want the option to personalize the name to be more creative and align more closely with their business goals. A key benefit of using Shopify is that it gives you a few options in terms of your online store’s domain. You may do the following with your domain:

  • Connect Your Domain: If you had a domain previously or work with a different provider, Shopify gives you the option to connect your domain to the online store. You will be able to continue to use your previous domain provider, and you will still need to do all of your subscription tasks through the third-party provider.
  • Transfer Your Domain: If you have a domain through a third-party provider but would like to transfer everything to your Shopify account, you have the option to do so. You will simply need to transfer your domain’s management to the Shopify platform. Following the transfer, you will be able to handle all of the subscription tasks through Shopify, and you will no longer need to use a third-party provider.

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Do You Have to Use Your Own Domain?

No. If you do not have a domain and you would like to use a domain through Shopify, you have the option to purchase a domain through the e-commerce platform. If you buy a domain through Shopify, it is automatically made and will begin to be displayed for your customers. If you would like to change your domain in the future, you would be able to do so through your online account.

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