Thenames.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website thenames.co.uk, it offers a broad range of services related to domain registration, web hosting, website building, and associated security and email solutions. The site appears to be a legitimate provider within the web services industry, catering to individuals and businesses looking to establish or enhance their online presence. While the offerings are comprehensive, a closer inspection reveals some areas where transparency and clarity could be improved for a user seeking a robust, ethical, and fully supported online infrastructure.

Overall Review Summary:

• Domain Registration: Wide variety of domain extensions, bulk registration, transfer options, and useful tools like name suggestion and Whois lookup.
• Web Hosting: Offers Linux Shared Hosting, WordPress Hosting, and Linux KVM VPS, with claims of 99% uptime and cPanel/Plesk support.
• Website Builder: Provides a free site builder for 12 months, featuring over 100 themes and drag-and-drop functionality.
• Email & Productivity: Includes professional email hosting (Titan Business Email) and Google Workspace integration.
• Security: Offers SSL Certificates, SiteLock Malware Detector, and Codeguard Website Backup.
• Transparency: Pricing displayed is often “starting from,” requiring deeper navigation to find full details. Currency conversion is stated to be for display purposes only, with payments processed in GBP.
• Ethical Considerations: The services offered (domain registration, hosting, website building) are generally permissible and beneficial for establishing legitimate online businesses or personal platforms. No overt red flags concerning impermissible activities are immediately apparent from the homepage content.
• Customer Support: Mentions “24 x 7 Servers Monitoring,” a Knowledge Base, and contact support options, though detailed support channels (live chat, phone numbers) aren’t prominently displayed on the main page.

Thenames.co.uk presents itself as a one-stop shop for web presence needs. From registering a domain name, setting up hosting, to building a website with their free site builder, they cover the essentials. They also provide crucial add-ons like SSL certificates for security and professional email solutions. The website highlights competitive pricing for popular domain extensions such as .COM, .ORG, and .CO.UK, attempting to draw in cost-conscious users. However, the common practice of listing “starting from” prices means that the true cost of a complete solution, including renewals and additional features, might only become clear later in the purchasing process. This can sometimes lead to an initial impression of affordability that doesn’t always align with the final expenditure. While the range of services is commendable, a more explicit detailing of service level agreements (SLAs), typical response times for support, and clear terms for “free” offers would enhance user confidence. For those seeking reliable infrastructure for their online ventures, a thorough investigation beyond the homepage is crucial to ensure all needs are met transparently and ethically.

Best Alternatives:

• Cloudflare:

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  Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Thenames.co.uk Review Latest Discussions & Reviews:

  • Key Features: CDN, DDoS protection, DNS, web application firewall, SSL/TLS encryption. Enhances website security and performance globally.
  • Average Price: Free tier available; paid plans start from $20/month.
  • Pros: Significant security enhancements, faster website loading, reliable DNS, extensive free tier.
  • Cons: Advanced features can be complex to set up for beginners, requires integration with existing hosting.

• Sucuri:

  • Key Features: Website security platform offering malware removal, firewall protection, DDoS mitigation, and continuous monitoring.
  • Average Price: Plans start from $199.99/year.
  • Pros: Excellent malware removal and prevention, comprehensive security suite, good for cleaning already infected sites.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive for small sites, may require some technical understanding for full optimisation.

• Namecheap:

  • Key Features: Domain registration, web hosting, SSL certificates, private email, VPN, and managed WordPress hosting.
  • Average Price: Domains from £0.75/year; hosting from £1.40/month.
  • Pros: Affordable, good customer support, free Whois privacy, user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Shared hosting performance can be inconsistent for very high-traffic sites, some add-ons increase cost.

• OVHcloud:

  • Key Features: Web hosting, dedicated servers, VPS, cloud computing, domain names, and email solutions. Focus on infrastructure as a service.
  • Average Price: Hosting from £2.00/month; VPS from £3.00/month.
  • Pros: Scalable infrastructure, competitive pricing for powerful solutions, European data centres for data privacy.
  • Cons: Interface can be less intuitive for beginners, support sometimes requires more technical understanding.

• DigitalOcean:

  • Key Features: Cloud hosting (Droplets), managed databases, Kubernetes, object storage, and developer tools.
  • Average Price: Droplets from $4/month (approx £3.20/month).
  • Pros: Developer-friendly, excellent documentation, scalable and flexible, robust infrastructure.
  • Cons: Requires technical proficiency, not suitable for absolute beginners, additional services can add up.

• Proton Mail:

  • Key Features: Encrypted email, calendar, drive, and VPN. Focus on privacy and security.
  • Average Price: Free tier available; paid plans start from £4.99/month.
  • Pros: End-to-end encryption, strong privacy features, based in Switzerland (strong data protection laws).
  • Cons: Free tier has limited storage, integration with third-party apps can be restrictive due to encryption.

• Tuta Mail:

  • Key Features: Secure email, calendar, and contacts with end-to-end encryption. Open-source and privacy-focused.
  • Average Price: Free tier available; paid plans start from €3/month (approx £2.50/month).
  • Pros: Highly secure, user-friendly interface, strong commitment to privacy, affordable premium plans.
  • Cons: Fewer features compared to traditional email providers, some advanced search capabilities are limited.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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thenames.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on thenames.co.uk, it immediately presents itself as a comprehensive hub for all things related to establishing an online presence. The layout is clean, with clear navigation menus pointing to various services like domain registration, web hosting, website building tools, email solutions, and security features. It’s designed to be a one-stop shop, which is often appealing to individuals and small businesses looking to get online without juggling multiple providers.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage

The homepage is packed with information, showcasing prominent offers such as “Get Domain Name + Hosting” starting from £4.99/month and tempting domain prices like .CO.UK for £4.55. These initial price points are certainly eye-catching, aiming to grab the attention of budget-conscious consumers. The site also highlights key benefits like “99% uptime for rock-solid performance” and the inclusion of “Free email, DNS, theft protection and more” with every domain. This immediately suggests value-added services are part of their core offering.

Navigating the Service Spectrum

Delving deeper, the navigation reveals a structured approach to their services. Under “Domains,” you find options for registering new domains, bulk registrations, new domain extensions, and even pre-registration for “Sunrise Domains” for trademark holders. This caters to a diverse set of users, from those making their first online step to established businesses securing their brand. For hosting, they offer Linux Shared Hosting, WordPress Hosting, and Linux KVM VPS, indicating scalability for different project sizes. The inclusion of Codeguard for backups and SiteLock for malware detection under “Tools” and “Security” demonstrates an awareness of essential security measures, which is crucial in today’s digital landscape where cyber threats are rampant.

Transparency and Ethical Considerations

From an ethical standpoint, the services themselves—domain registration, hosting, and website tools—are inherently permissible and serve legitimate purposes. The website doesn’t appear to promote any activities or content that would fall into impermissible categories. However, the transparency around pricing is a common point of contention across the industry. While the initial prices are advertised, the “starting from” disclaimer means you’ll likely need to click through to specific product pages to understand the full cost, including potential renewal rates, which can sometimes be significantly higher than the introductory offer. This is a standard marketing practice, but one that users should always be mindful of. Furthermore, the currency conversion notice stating “Prices are calculated at the daily forex rate and are for display purposes only. Payments will be made in GBP” adds a layer of complexity for international customers, requiring them to account for potential fluctuations and their bank’s conversion rates.

thenames.co.uk Features

Thenames.co.uk boasts a comprehensive suite of features designed to cover almost every aspect of establishing and maintaining an online presence. From securing your digital identity to hosting your content and ensuring its security, their offerings are broad. This section dives into the key features available on the platform, highlighting their utility and potential benefits for users. Lilymbeauty.co.uk Review

Domain Registration Services

The core of thenames.co.uk’s offering begins with domain registration, providing a robust set of tools for acquiring and managing domain names.

• Wide Range of Extensions: They offer registration for over 50+ domain extensions, including popular options like .COM, .ORG, .CO.UK, and .LONDON, as well as newer domain extensions (New Domain Extensions) and internationalized domain names (IDN Domain Registration). This variety allows users to find the perfect domain name that aligns with their brand or personal identity.
• Bulk Registration and Transfer: For those managing multiple domains, the platform supports Bulk Domain Registration at lower rates and Bulk Domain Transfer to consolidate existing domains. This feature is particularly beneficial for agencies or businesses with extensive domain portfolios, streamlining management and potentially reducing costs.
• Domain Management Tools: Included are useful tools like a Name suggestion tool to help users brainstorm ideas for their ideal domain name, and a Whois lookup service to check domain ownership and availability. They also highlight “Free with every domain” features such as free email, DNS management, and theft protection, adding significant value.

Web Hosting Solutions

Beyond domains, thenames.co.uk offers various web hosting options to cater to different website needs and technical proficiencies.

• Shared Hosting: They provide Linux Shared Hosting, perfect for smaller websites and blogs, equipped with industry-standard features like cPanel, PHP, and Apache. Shared hosting is a cost-effective entry point for many new websites.
• WordPress Hosting: Recognising the popularity of WordPress, they offer WordPress Hosting, described as a “secure, reliable and powerful platform crafted for WordPress.” This optimised environment aims to deliver better performance and security for WordPress-powered sites.
• VPS Hosting: For users requiring more control and resources, Linux KVM VPS (Virtual Private Server) options are available. This provides a cost-effective dedicated server experience, suitable for growing websites or applications with specific resource demands.

Website Building and Design Tools

For those without coding skills, thenames.co.uk integrates solutions to help users build a professional-looking website.

• Free Sitebuilder: A notable offering is their Free Sitebuilder, available for 12 months. This tool promises the ability to “build the beautiful website you have always imagined, without having to know code,” leveraging a drag-and-drop interface and a choice of over 100 themes. This lowers the barrier to entry for many aspiring website owners.
• Themes, Plugins, and Logos: To further customise and enhance websites, they provide access to a curated library of Themes and Plugins created by top web designers. Additionally, a tool to “Design a professional looking logo in minutes” is available, assisting with brand identity development.

Email and Productivity Services

Professional communication is vital for any online presence, and thenames.co.uk addresses this with dedicated email and productivity solutions.

• Titan Business Email: They offer Professional Email for your Business via Titan Business Email, providing a dedicated and reliable email service under your own domain name.
• Google Workspace Integration: For businesses preferring a comprehensive suite of cloud-based tools, thenames.co.uk facilitates Google Workspace integration, including professional email, cloud storage, and collaboration applications.

Security and Backup Features

In an era of increasing cyber threats, the platform emphasises security and data protection. Hey-honey.co.uk Review

• SSL Certificates: Essential for website security and SEO, they provide SSL Certificates with up to 256-bit encryption and free reissues, ensuring data privacy and trust.
• SiteLock Malware Detector: To protect websites from hackers, viruses, and malware, they offer SiteLock Malware Detector. Given that “Over 5000 websites get attacked everyday,” this is a critical tool for maintaining website integrity.
• Codeguard Website Backup: Data loss can be catastrophic, so Codeguard Website Backup is offered to secure website data in just a few minutes, providing peace of mind through regular backups and easy recovery options.

thenames.co.uk Pros & Cons

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any service provider is crucial for making an informed decision. Thenames.co.uk, like any platform, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of thenames.co.uk

The platform offers several appealing aspects that might attract users seeking web services.

• Comprehensive Service Offering: One of the standout pros is the breadth of services offered. Users can register domains, host websites, build sites with a drag-and-drop builder, manage emails, and secure their online presence all from a single provider. This convenience can simplify the management process for individuals and small businesses, reducing the need to juggle multiple accounts and interfaces. A unified dashboard, while not explicitly detailed, is often implied with such a broad offering.
• Competitive Introductory Pricing: The advertised introductory prices for domains and hosting plans are quite competitive. For example, a .CO.UK domain at £4.55 and combo offers starting at £4.99/month are attractive entry points for budget-conscious users. This can be particularly beneficial for startups or individuals testing a new online venture.
• Valuable Add-ons and Tools: The inclusion of free email, DNS management, and theft protection with every domain registration adds significant value. Furthermore, tools like the name suggestion tool and Whois lookup enhance the user experience during the domain selection process. The availability of SiteLock and Codeguard as security and backup solutions, even if they are paid add-ons, signifies a commitment to essential website safeguards.
• Focus on UK Market: Being thenames.co.uk, with specific pricing for .CO.UK domains and payments in GBP, clearly positions them as a strong choice for users in the United Kingdom. This can translate to better localised support and understanding of the UK regulatory landscape for online businesses. Their registered office in London also adds a layer of trust for UK-based customers.

Disadvantages of thenames.co.uk

Despite its advantages, there are areas where thenames.co.uk could improve, and potential users should be aware of these limitations.

• Lack of Transparent Renewal Pricing: A common industry practice that can be a drawback is the “starting from” pricing model without immediately clear renewal rates. While introductory offers are appealing, the actual long-term cost can significantly increase after the initial term. This lack of upfront transparency on renewal fees can lead to unexpected expenses and customer frustration. Users often have to navigate deep into the terms of service or a specific product page to uncover these details.
• Limited Information on Support Channels: While the website mentions “Contact Support” and a “Knowledge Base,” it lacks prominent details on specific support channels like live chat, phone support availability, or average response times. For critical web services, immediate and efficient support is paramount, especially when facing technical issues or outages. The absence of clear, easily accessible support information can be a concern for users who might need urgent assistance.
• Generic Feature Descriptions: Many feature descriptions, while informative, are somewhat generic. For instance, “99% uptime for rock-solid performance” is a standard claim, but specific Service Level Agreements (SLAs) detailing compensation for downtime are not readily visible on the homepage. Similarly, while “over 100 themes” are mentioned for the website builder, the quality, customisability, and ongoing updates of these themes are not detailed. More specific metrics or examples would build greater confidence.
• Potential Upselling of Security Features: While SiteLock and Codeguard are vital security features, they are often presented as separate products or add-ons. For a comprehensive solution, users might find themselves paying extra for these essential safeguards, which some competitors might bundle into their core hosting plans. This can inflate the overall cost beyond the initial advertised price.
• Currency Conversion Caveats: The statement that “Prices are calculated at the daily forex rate and are for display purposes only. Payments will be made in GBP” might be confusing for international customers. This means that while they see prices in their local currency, the actual amount debited could vary slightly due to daily exchange rate fluctuations and bank fees, leading to potential discrepancies.

thenames.co.uk Alternatives

When it comes to establishing an online presence, thenames.co.uk offers a broad array of services. However, it’s always wise to explore alternatives to ensure you find the best fit for your specific needs, budget, and ethical considerations. Here, we delve into some of the leading alternatives in the domain registration, web hosting, and website security space, focusing on options that uphold ethical standards and provide robust features.

Domain Registration and Management Alternatives

While thenames.co.uk offers domain services, several other providers specialise in this area, often with competitive pricing and excellent management tools. Progressionfitness.co.uk Review

• Namecheap: A highly popular choice globally, Namecheap is renowned for its affordable domain registration and renewal rates. They consistently offer free Whois privacy protection for life with most domain registrations, a feature often charged by other registrars. Their interface is user-friendly, and they provide a wide selection of domain extensions. Beyond domains, they also offer competitive hosting, SSL certificates, and professional email. For businesses and individuals looking for a reliable and budget-friendly domain solution, Namecheap is a strong contender.
• GoDaddy: As one of the largest domain registrars in the world, GoDaddy offers an extensive range of domain extensions and bundles. While their initial registration prices can be attractive, users should carefully review their renewal rates. GoDaddy provides a comprehensive suite of services including web hosting, website builders, and marketing tools, making it a one-stop shop for many. They are a well-established and well-supported platform, albeit one that can sometimes be more expensive on renewals.

Web Hosting Alternatives

For hosting your website, there are numerous providers that offer diverse hosting types, performance, and support.

• SiteGround: Known for its superior performance, excellent customer support, and robust security features, SiteGround is a premium choice for shared hosting, WordPress hosting, and cloud hosting. They offer features like free SSL, daily backups, and a custom caching solution. While their pricing might be slightly higher than some budget hosts, the value derived from speed, reliability, and dedicated support often justifies the investment. Their data centres are strategically located for global reach.
• Bluehost: A popular choice, especially for WordPress users due to its official recommendation by WordPress.org. Bluehost offers affordable shared hosting plans with a free domain for the first year, free SSL, and a one-click WordPress install. Its user-friendly interface makes it ideal for beginners, and their customer support is generally well-regarded. While performance can be inconsistent for very high-traffic sites on their basic plans, it’s a solid choice for small to medium-sized websites.
• OVHcloud: For users seeking more control and scalable infrastructure, OVHcloud provides a range of options including shared hosting, dedicated servers, and VPS. They are known for their competitive pricing for high-performance solutions and extensive network of global data centres. OVHcloud is a good option for developers and businesses that require robust, customisable hosting environments, although its interface might be less intuitive for absolute beginners.

Website Security and Performance Alternatives

Securing your website and ensuring optimal performance is paramount, and several services specialise in these critical areas.

• Cloudflare: A global leader in web performance and security, Cloudflare offers a free CDN (Content Delivery Network), DDoS protection, and DNS services. By routing your website traffic through their network, they significantly improve loading speeds and shield your site from various online threats. Their Web Application Firewall (WAF) and SSL/TLS encryption further enhance security. Cloudflare is an essential tool for any website aiming for better performance and robust protection, with accessible free and paid tiers.
• Sucuri: Specialising in website security, malware removal, and firewall protection, Sucuri is an excellent choice for businesses serious about protecting their online assets. They offer comprehensive scanning, malware detection and cleanup, and a powerful firewall that blocks attacks. If your website has been compromised, Sucuri is often recommended for its effective cleanup services. While it’s a premium service, the peace of mind and protection it offers are invaluable.

Professional Email Alternatives

Beyond basic email included with hosting, dedicated professional email services offer enhanced features and reliability.

• Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): An incredibly popular choice for businesses, Google Workspace offers professional email (Gmail for business) with your domain name, alongside a suite of productivity tools like Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Calendar. It’s known for its reliability, extensive features, and seamless collaboration capabilities. While thenames.co.uk integrates Google Workspace, purchasing directly or through a specialised reseller can sometimes offer more tailored support or specific billing arrangements.
• Proton Mail: For users prioritising privacy and security, Proton Mail stands out with its end-to-end encrypted email service. Based in Switzerland, it offers robust data protection laws. While it might lack some of the advanced integrations found in Google Workspace, its focus on privacy makes it an excellent ethical alternative for sensitive communications. They also offer Proton Drive, Calendar, and VPN for a comprehensive secure suite.

How to Cancel thenames.co.uk Subscription

Cancelling a subscription with any online service provider can sometimes be a convoluted process, but understanding the steps beforehand can save a lot of time and frustration. While thenames.co.uk’s homepage doesn’t explicitly detail the cancellation process, general industry practices and common patterns suggest a typical approach. It’s crucial to be aware of renewal dates and any specific terms of service to avoid unwanted charges.

Understanding the Cancellation Process

Typically, the cancellation of services like domain names, web hosting, or other subscriptions with providers like thenames.co.uk involves navigating through your client area or contacting customer support directly. The goal is to ensure that future billing cycles are stopped and that you don’t incur charges for services you no longer wish to use. Handmadeteddiescardsgifts.co.uk Review

1. Log In to Your Client Area: The first and most critical step is to log in to your account on thenames.co.uk. Look for a “Login” or “Sign Up” button, usually located in the top right corner of the website. Once logged in, you should be able to access your dashboard or client area, which lists all your active services and subscriptions.
   • Action: Navigate to https://thenames.co.uk/login.php and enter your credentials.
2. Locate Your Services/Subscriptions: Within your client area, there will typically be a section dedicated to “My Services,” “Products,” “Subscriptions,” or “Domains.” Click on this section to view a list of all the services you currently have active with thenames.co.uk.
   • Tip: Services are usually listed with their status (active, pending, expired), renewal date, and options to manage or cancel.
3. Initiate Cancellation Request: For each service you wish to cancel (e.g., a specific domain, a hosting package, an SSL certificate), there should be an option to manage it. Within the management interface for that specific service, look for a “Cancel,” “Terminate,” or “Don’t Renew” option.
   • Important: Some services, especially domain names, are often registered for a year or more, and cancellation might mean simply not renewing the service at its expiration date, rather than receiving an immediate refund for the remaining term. Review the terms carefully.
4. Confirm Cancellation: You will likely be prompted to confirm your cancellation request. Some providers may ask for a reason for cancellation to gather feedback. Ensure you complete all necessary steps until you receive a confirmation that your service has been successfully cancelled or set not to renew.
   • Verification: Look for an email confirmation of your cancellation. Keep this email for your records as proof.

Specific Considerations for Different Services

• Domain Names: Cancelling a domain name typically means setting it not to auto-renew. The domain will remain active until its registration expiry date, after which it will enter a grace period and eventually become available for re-registration by others. If you wish to transfer the domain to another registrar, ensure you initiate the transfer well before the expiry date, as transfers can take several days.
• Web Hosting: When cancelling web hosting, all website files, databases, and emails associated with that hosting account will be deleted. It is crucial to back up all your website data (files, databases, emails) before initiating a hosting cancellation. Thenames.co.uk does offer Codeguard Website Backup, which could be useful here if you’ve subscribed to it.
• Add-ons (SSL, SiteLock, Codeguard): These services are often linked to a primary domain or hosting package. Cancelling the primary service might automatically cancel the add-ons, or you might need to cancel them individually. Check the terms for each.

Contacting Support for Assistance

If you encounter any difficulties or cannot find the cancellation option within your client area, the next step is to contact thenames.co.uk’s customer support. The website lists a “Contact Support” link.

• Method: While not explicitly stated on the homepage, support is usually available via a ticketing system, email, or possibly live chat/phone. Refer to their “Contact Support” page for the most accurate methods.
• Information to Provide: When contacting support, have your account details (username, email, service details) ready to expedite the process.

How to Cancel thenames.co.uk Free Trial

Free trials are an excellent way to test out a service before committing to a paid subscription. Thenames.co.uk offers a “Free Sitebuilder” for 12 months, which functions as a trial period. Understanding how to cancel this free trial before it converts into a paid service is essential to avoid unexpected charges.

Understanding the Free Trial Conversion

Typically, free trials for services like website builders convert into a paid subscription after the trial period ends unless cancelled. This is a standard business model, and it’s the user’s responsibility to manage the trial.

1. Mark Your Calendar: The most proactive step is to note the end date of your 12-month free trial for the Sitebuilder. Set a reminder a few weeks before the trial expires to give yourself ample time to decide whether to continue the service or cancel.
   • Information Source: The start date should be available in your account’s service activation details.
2. Access Your Client Area: Similar to general subscription cancellation, you’ll need to log in to your thenames.co.uk client area. This is where all your active services, including the free trial, are managed.
   • Login Link: Use https://thenames.co.uk/login.php.
3. Locate the Free Sitebuilder Service: Once logged in, navigate to the section that lists your active products or services. Look for the “Free Sitebuilder” or “Website Builder” service listed. It should indicate its trial status and expiry date.
4. Initiate Cancellation or Non-Renewal: Within the management options for the Sitebuilder, you should find a clear option to “Cancel,” “Do Not Renew,” or “Terminate” the service. The goal is to prevent the automatic conversion to a paid subscription.
   • Crucial Step: Ensure you select the option that explicitly stops the service from becoming a paid subscription.
5. Confirm the Cancellation: Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm your decision. You might be asked to provide feedback on why you’re cancelling. A final confirmation message or email should be sent to you.
   • Record Keeping: Keep the confirmation email as proof of cancellation.

Important Considerations for Free Trials

• Data Backup: If you’ve built content using the Free Sitebuilder and wish to retain it, check if there’s an option to export your site’s data or content before cancellation. Once the trial ends and the service is terminated, your website content will likely be deleted. Thenames.co.uk’s Codeguard service is for backups, but this applies to hosting, not typically website builder content unless it’s hosted externally.
• Associated Services: Check if the Free Sitebuilder trial is bundled with any other services that might also convert to paid subscriptions. Read the terms of the trial carefully to understand any implications.
• Timing of Cancellation: It’s generally best to cancel a few days before the trial officially ends. This provides a buffer in case of any technical issues or delays in processing your request. Cancelling too early might mean you lose access to the site builder before you’ve fully evaluated it, though most trials allow access until the end date regardless of when you cancel.

Seeking Assistance

If you face any issues while trying to cancel the free trial, or if the option isn’t clearly visible:

• Contact Support: Utilise thenames.co.uk’s “Contact Support” options. Provide your account details and clearly state that you wish to cancel the “Free Sitebuilder” trial to prevent it from rolling into a paid subscription. Be specific about the service you are cancelling.
• Knowledge Base: Check their “View Knowledge Base” (https://cp.thenames.co.uk/kb) for articles on managing subscriptions or cancelling specific services, as they might have detailed guides.

thenames.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of thenames.co.uk requires a bit of navigation beyond the attractive introductory offers highlighted on the homepage. While they present themselves with competitive “starting from” prices, a complete picture involves looking at individual service costs, potential add-ons, and crucial renewal rates. Croftdrainage.co.uk Review

Domain Pricing

Thenames.co.uk showcases various domain extension prices directly on its homepage:

• .COM: £9.99
• .ORG: £10.69
• .LONDON: £30.59
• .CO.UK: £4.55

These prices are for initial registration, typically for one year. The crucial detail here is that these are often promotional rates. It’s standard practice in the industry for renewal prices to be significantly higher than the initial registration fee. For instance, a .CO.UK domain might renew at a higher rate after the first year. To get precise renewal figures, users would need to click “View Domain Pricing” (https://thenames.co.uk/domain-registration/domain-registration-price.php) and carefully examine the terms for each TLD (Top-Level Domain).

Hosting Pricing

Thenames.co.uk offers different hosting plans, each with its own pricing structure:

• Shared Hosting (Linux Hosting / WordPress Hosting): Advertised as “Starting From £2.50 per mo.” This indicates the lowest tier plan. These plans usually vary based on factors like storage space, bandwidth, number of websites allowed, and included features (e.g., email accounts, databases).
  • Common Pricing Tiers: Typically, shared hosting plans progress through tiers like “Basic,” “Plus,” “Pro,” with increasing resources and features at higher prices. The £2.50/month likely corresponds to the most basic plan, often requiring a multi-year commitment to secure that specific rate. Monthly billing usually comes at a higher effective cost.
• VPS Hosting (Linux KVM VPS): While a starting price isn’t explicitly shown for VPS on the homepage, these plans are generally more expensive than shared hosting, reflecting the increased resources and control they offer. VPS pricing depends on CPU cores, RAM, SSD storage, and bandwidth.
• Combo Offers: They highlight “Combo Offers” starting at £4.99/mo, which typically bundle a domain name and hosting. These are designed to be cost-effective entry points. Again, users must verify what specific domain and hosting plan are included at this price and the cost after the initial promotional period.

Website Builder Pricing

The “Free Sitebuilder” is offered as “Free for 12 months,” suggesting it’s a trial that converts to a paid service.

• Conversion Cost: After the initial 12 months, this “Free Sitebuilder” will likely convert into a paid subscription. The price for this conversion is not clearly stated on the homepage. Users should check the terms associated with the free trial or the dedicated Website Builder page (https://thenames.co.uk/website-design/do-it-yourself-website-builder.php) to understand the ongoing monthly or annual fee.
• Themes and Plugins: While they offer a “curated library of products,” it’s not clear if all themes and plugins are free or if premium options come with additional costs. This is a common model where basic themes are free, but advanced ones require a purchase.

Security and Email Pricing

These are presented as separate services or add-ons, meaning they come with their own costs: Lizhalsey.co.uk Review

• SSL Certificates: Starting From £19.20 per year. Prices for SSL certificates can vary based on the type (e.g., Domain Validated, Organisation Validated, Extended Validation) and the level of encryption.
• SiteLock: “Over 5000 websites get attacked everyday. Get SiteLock…” This implies it’s a paid service. Pricing for SiteLock typically depends on the scan frequency and features included (e.g., malware removal, vulnerability patching).
• Codeguard Website Backup: “Your data is precious. Secure your website in just a few minutes.” Again, this suggests a paid service. Codeguard plans usually depend on the amount of storage required for backups and the frequency of backups.
• Titan Business Email / Google Workspace: These are professional email solutions. While Titan Business Email might have its own pricing structure, Google Workspace generally has tiered pricing per user per month, depending on storage and features.

Overall Pricing Transparency

The main challenge with thenames.co.uk’s pricing, common across many providers, is the reliance on “starting from” figures and the lack of explicit renewal rates on the homepage. This necessitates diligent research by the potential customer to avoid financial surprises. Always read the fine print, check the terms of service, and ideally, compare the full cost (including all required add-ons and renewal fees) across different providers before making a decision. Furthermore, the currency conversion notice (“Prices are calculated at the daily forex rate and are for display purposes only. Payments will be made in GBP”) implies that what you see in your local currency might not be the exact amount charged due to exchange rate fluctuations at the time of payment.

thenames.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating thenames.co.uk, it’s insightful to place it alongside its competitors in the web services industry. This comparison reveals its market positioning, strengths, and weaknesses relative to other established players offering domain registration, web hosting, and website building tools.

Comparison with GoDaddy

GoDaddy is perhaps the most globally recognised name in domain registration and web hosting.

• Domain Registration:

  • thenames.co.uk: Offers competitive initial pricing for UK-specific domains (.CO.UK at £4.55) and a good range of international TLDs. Includes free basic features like DNS management.
  • GoDaddy: Very aggressive initial pricing for many TLDs, often bundling them with introductory offers. Has a vast selection of domain extensions. However, GoDaddy’s renewal rates are notoriously higher than its initial offers, and Whois privacy often comes at an extra cost.
  • Verdict: GoDaddy has more global reach and marketing power, but thenames.co.uk provides good value for UK-centric domains. For long-term domain holding, thenames.co.uk might offer better value if their renewal rates are more transparent and reasonable.

• Web Hosting: Cabluu.co.uk Review

  • thenames.co.uk: Offers Linux Shared Hosting, WordPress Hosting, and Linux KVM VPS. Mentions cPanel/Plesk and 99% uptime.
  • GoDaddy: Provides a broad range of hosting, including shared, WordPress, VPS, and dedicated servers. They are known for their ease of use, particularly for beginners. Performance can be inconsistent on shared plans, and customer support receives mixed reviews.
  • Verdict: Both offer a similar range. Thenames.co.uk’s 99% uptime claim is standard, but GoDaddy’s sheer volume means more diverse user experiences.

• Website Builder:

  • thenames.co.uk: Free Sitebuilder for 12 months with 100+ themes and drag-and-drop.
  • GoDaddy: Offers its own “GoDaddy Website Builder” which is user-friendly and integrates with their hosting and marketing tools. It’s often bundled with hosting packages.
  • Verdict: Both provide accessible website builders. Thenames.co.uk’s 12-month free period is attractive, but GoDaddy’s builder is very tightly integrated with their broader ecosystem.

Comparison with Namecheap

Namecheap is a strong competitor, particularly known for its value-driven pricing and customer-centric approach.

• Domain Registration:

  • thenames.co.uk: Good pricing for UK domains, useful tools.
  • Namecheap: Highly competitive pricing for registration and renewals, and critically, includes free WhoisGuard privacy protection for life with most domain registrations. This is a significant value proposition as many competitors charge for this essential privacy feature.
  • Verdict: Namecheap often beats thenames.co.uk on overall domain value due to inclusive privacy and transparent, competitive renewal rates.

• Web Hosting:

  • thenames.co.uk: Standard shared and WordPress hosting.
  • Namecheap: Offers affordable shared, WordPress, VPS, and reseller hosting. Generally reliable, with a user-friendly cPanel interface. Their performance is solid for the price point.
  • Verdict: Namecheap provides strong competition with its reliable and affordable hosting, often seen as a better overall value package for small to medium sites.

• Security & Email: Sondiz.co.uk Review

  • thenames.co.uk: Offers SSL Certificates, SiteLock, and Codeguard as separate purchases. Also provides Titan Business Email and Google Workspace integration.
  • Namecheap: Provides competitive SSL options, email hosting (Private Email), and a marketplace for security add-ons. Their strong focus on security is evident, and their Private Email service is a good alternative to Google Workspace for those seeking more control or privacy.
  • Verdict: Both offer essential security and email. Namecheap’s bundled free WhoisGuard sets it apart for domain privacy.

Comparison with SiteGround

SiteGround is generally considered a premium host known for performance and support, a different league compared to the more mass-market offerings.

• Web Hosting Performance:

  • thenames.co.uk: Claims 99% uptime. Basic shared hosting features.
  • SiteGround: Renowned for superior speed and performance due to technologies like SSD drives, NGINX direct delivery, and their custom SuperCacher. They offer dedicated resources and optimised setups for WordPress.
  • Verdict: SiteGround is definitively superior in hosting performance, ideal for users who prioritise speed, reliability, and advanced optimisation. Thenames.co.uk is more of a budget-friendly, general-purpose host.

• Customer Support:

  • thenames.co.uk: Mentions knowledge base and contact support, but details on responsiveness are limited.
  • SiteGround: Widely praised for its 24/7 expert customer support via live chat, phone, and ticketing system, with quick response times and knowledgeable technicians.
  • Verdict: SiteGround excels in customer support, which is a major draw for users needing reliable assistance.

• Included Features:

  • thenames.co.uk: Free email, DNS, theft protection with domains; SSL, SiteLock, Codeguard as add-ons.
  • SiteGround: Free SSL certificates, daily backups, free CDN (Cloudflare integration), staging environments for WordPress, and proactive security monitoring are often included in their plans.
  • Verdict: SiteGround offers a richer set of high-value features directly included in their hosting plans, providing more comprehensive solutions out-of-the-box.

In summary, thenames.co.uk is a viable option for those seeking a convenient, all-in-one provider, especially within the UK market, with competitive initial pricing. However, for those prioritising long-term cost predictability (like Namecheap), top-tier performance and support (like SiteGround), or global market dominance (like GoDaddy), alternatives might offer a more specialised or robust experience. Always compare feature sets, customer reviews, and crucially, renewal costs, before committing. Motoringclassics.co.uk Review

FAQ

What is Thenames.co.uk?

Thenames.co.uk is a UK-based web services provider offering a range of products, including domain name registration, web hosting (shared, WordPress, VPS), website building tools, professional email solutions (Titan Business Email, Google Workspace), and security services like SSL certificates, SiteLock, and Codeguard.

Is Thenames.co.uk a legitimate company?

Yes, based on the website, thenames.co.uk appears to be a legitimate web services provider. They list a registered office address in London (9 Bromells Road, London SW4 0BN), a company registration number (3730401), and a VAT registration number (751 9901 14) under the trading name of TwentytwentyMedia Ltd.

What domain extensions can I register with Thenames.co.uk?

Thenames.co.uk allows you to register over 50+ domain extensions, including popular ones like .COM, .ORG, .CO.UK, and .LONDON, as well as new domain extensions and internationalized domain names (IDN).

Does Thenames.co.uk offer free email with domain registration?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk states that “Free email, DNS, theft protection and more” are included with every domain registration. This typically means a basic email service under your newly registered domain.

What types of web hosting does Thenames.co.uk provide?

Thenames.co.uk offers Linux Shared Hosting (for general websites and blogs), WordPress Hosting (optimised for WordPress sites), and Linux KVM VPS (Virtual Private Server) for users needing more dedicated resources and control. Thehearingclinicmk.co.uk Review

Does Thenames.co.uk have a website builder?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk offers a “Free Sitebuilder” for 12 months, which features a drag-and-drop interface and over 100 themes, allowing users to build a website without needing coding skills.

How much does a .CO.UK domain cost at Thenames.co.uk?

According to their homepage, a .CO.UK domain costs £4.55 for initial registration. However, be aware that renewal prices may differ from the introductory offer.

Are SSL Certificates included with Thenames.co.uk hosting plans?

The homepage lists SSL Certificates as a separate security service “Starting From £19.20 per yr,” implying they are not automatically included with all hosting plans and might be an additional purchase.

What security features does Thenames.co.uk offer?

Thenames.co.uk offers SSL Certificates for data encryption, SiteLock Malware Detector to protect against hackers and malware, and Codeguard Website Backup for data protection and recovery.

Is customer support available 24/7 at Thenames.co.uk?

Thenames.co.uk mentions “24 x 7 Servers Monitoring” and has a “Contact Support” link and a “Knowledge Base.” However, the specific channels for customer support (e.g., live chat, phone support, ticketing system) and their immediate availability are not prominently detailed on the homepage. Powerburn.co.uk Review

Can I transfer my existing domain to Thenames.co.uk?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk provides options for domain transfer, including “Transfer your Domain” and “Bulk Domain Transfer” for moving multiple domains to their platform.

What is the purpose of the “Name suggestion tool” on Thenames.co.uk?

The “Name suggestion tool” helps users generate ideas for their ideal domain name by spinning or suggesting names, which can be useful during the domain registration process.

Does Thenames.co.uk offer cloud hosting?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk lists “Cloud Hosting” among its hosting and product offerings, suggesting they provide cloud-based hosting solutions in addition to shared and VPS options.

What is a “Whois lookup” and does Thenames.co.uk provide it?

A Whois lookup allows you to check the registration details and availability of a domain name. Yes, Thenames.co.uk provides a “Whois lookup” service on its website.

What currency are payments processed in on Thenames.co.uk?

Thenames.co.uk explicitly states: “Prices are calculated at the daily forex rate and are for display purposes only. Payments will be made in GBP.” This means all final payments will be in British Pounds. Perfectjeans.co.uk Review

Can I get Google Workspace through Thenames.co.uk?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk lists “Google WorkspaceNew” under its Email & Productivity offerings, indicating that you can acquire this cloud-based email and productivity suite through their platform.

Are there any hidden fees with Thenames.co.uk?

While not explicitly “hidden,” the website uses “starting from” pricing, which is common. This implies that the initial advertised price is often a promotional rate, and renewal costs or additional features may incur higher fees. Users should review specific product pages and terms for full pricing transparency.

How does Thenames.co.uk handle data backups?

Thenames.co.uk offers “Codeguard Website Backup” as a service, designed to secure your website data in minutes. This suggests it’s an available add-on for data protection and recovery.

Does Thenames.co.uk offer a reseller program?

Yes, Thenames.co.uk has a “Join Reseller Program” link in its footer, indicating that individuals or businesses can partner with them to resell their services.

Where is Thenames.co.uk’s registered office located?

Thenames.co.uk’s registered office is located at 9 Bromells Road, London SW4 0BN, in England and Wales. Thatscleaning.co.uk Review