How do I check if a domain name is available?

To check if a domain name is available, you can use a domain name search tool provided by a domain registrar or a third-party domain availability checker. Here are the steps to check domain name availability:

1. Visit a domain registrar's website: Go to a domain registrar's website, such as Namecheap, GoDaddy, Google Domains, or any other ICANN-accredited registrar.
2. Use the domain search tool: On the registrar's website, locate the domain search tool or domain search box. This is usually found on their homepage or in the domain registration section.
3. Enter the desired domain name: Type the domain name you're interested in, including the top-level domain (TLD) extension (e.g., .com, .org, .net), and hit "Enter" or click the "Search" button.
4. Review the search results: The domain search tool will display the availability status of the entered domain name. If the domain name is available, you'll see a message indicating that it's available for registration. If it's already registered, you'll see a message stating that it's taken, along with alternative domain suggestions.
5. Check multiple TLDs: If your preferred domain name is unavailable, consider searching for the same name with different TLD extensions (e.g., .net, .org, .co) to see if any of them are available.

Another option is to use third-party domain availability checkers, like Instant Domain Search or Domainr, which provide similar search functionality to check if a domain name is available. Keep in mind that the availability of a domain name can change at any time, so it's a good idea to register the domain as soon as you've confirmed it's available and you're ready to proceed.