Use the free MyGratis address first. Add a custom domain only when a clearer, branded name is worth the yearly registry cost.
Custom domains are optional and paid because registries charge annual fees. Hosting stays free whether you use a MyGratis subdomain, connect a domain you already own, or register a new name later.
Register
Search for a new name, review the first-year and renewal price, then continue only if the cost makes sense.
Transfer
Move an existing domain when you want MyGratis to manage renewal and DNS for the site.
Connect
Keep the domain at another registrar and point DNS at MyGratis when you prefer external billing or email setup.
Register a new domain
Search for the name you want, review the first-year and renewal price, then continue only if the price works for you. Domain registration is optional; hosting remains free even if you keep using a MyGratis subdomain.
- The checkout shows the exact price before payment.
- Premium names and uncommon extensions may cost more than standard domains.
- The domain is connected to your Gratis Hosting site after registration completes.
Transfer an existing domain
If you already own a domain, unlock it at your current registrar and request an authorization code. Transfers normally add one year to the registration term when the registry completes the transfer. Review the displayed transfer and renewal price before approving payment.
Connect a domain purchased elsewhere
You can keep a domain at another registrar and point DNS to Gratis Hosting. This is a good option when you want to keep existing registrar billing, DNS management, or email settings. Follow the DNS records shown in your site dashboard and leave time for DNS propagation.
DNS and SSL expectations
- DNS changes can take minutes and sometimes up to 24-48 hours to fully propagate.
- SSL certificates are issued automatically after DNS points to Gratis Hosting and the domain is validated.
- Do not delete existing email records unless you are intentionally moving email service.
Renewals, reminders, and privacy
Domains renew annually unless you cancel or move them before the renewal deadline. Renewal reminders are sent to the account email before expiration. WHOIS privacy depends on the domain extension and registry rules; when privacy is available, it is enabled or offered during checkout so your personal contact details are not published unnecessarily.
Why hosting is free and domains are paid
Gratis Hosting covers the hosted WordPress platform. Domain names are different: registries and registrars charge real recurring fees for ownership, renewals, transfers, and compliance. Paying for the domain keeps the free hosting plan sustainable while giving you a portable name you can use with any host.
Important: registrar credentials and account secrets are never shown on this page, in public issue comments, or in screenshots.
Start free, decide on a domain later
If you are still testing the idea, use the free MyGratis subdomain first. A custom domain is a portability and trust upgrade, not a hosting requirement.