Custom Domain vs Hosted Subdomain: Which Is Right for Your Brand in Nepal?
A first-time buyer guide explaining .com.np registration, DNS routing, and hosted subdomains.
AssetGainLab Research Team
Web Infrastructure Architect
When preparing to launch your business or sales funnel in Nepal, one of the first decisions you face is your web address. Should you spend Rs. 2,000 on a commercial `.com` domain, wait 48 hours for a government-approved `.com.np` domain, or start immediately on a hosted subdomain?
1. The Three Approaches to Web Addressing in Nepal
Understanding the differences between the three main choices will help you pick the right starting point without overpaying or delaying your launch:
Option A: Hosted Subdomain (e.g. `john.assetgainlab.com`). Built into the platform. SSL certificates, DNS routing, and servers are provisioned automatically. Perfect for fast testing and immediate campaign launches.
Option B: Commercial Custom Domain (e.g. `johnsharma.com`). Purchased through global or local domain registrars for around Rs. 1,600 to Rs. 2,500/year. Gives you full independent branding.
Option C: Free Local Country Code Domain (e.g. `johnsharma.com.np`). Free for life through the official Mercantile register, provided your requested name matches your legal citizenship or firm registration name.
2. How to Register a Free .com.np Domain in Nepal
If you want a free official Nepali domain, follow these steps:
1. Visit the official registration portal at `register.com.np`.
2. Search for your domain name. Note that personal names must strictly match your Nepali Citizenship or Passport name.
3. Upload a scan of your citizenship card (both sides) and a signed cover letter requesting the domain.
4. Specify your Primary and Secondary Name Servers (DNS).
5. The registration team typically reviews and approves valid applications within 24 to 48 business hours.
Strict Name Matching Rule
Mercantile will reject applications if you apply for generic words (e.g. `bestshoes.com.np`) under a personal citizenship. To register commercial or brand keywords, you must submit a company registration certificate and PAN.
3. DNS Setup: CNAME and A-Records Explained
When connecting a custom domain to a platform like AssetGainLab, you don't need to move web hosting servers. You only configure two lightweight DNS records at your registrar:
• `www` CNAME Record: Point `www.yourdomain.com` to your hosted platform subdomain (e.g. `john.assetgainlab.com`).
• Apex / Root A-Record: Point `@` (the naked domain) to the platform's anycast routing IP address.
Once saved, global DNS propagation takes anywhere from 10 minutes to a few hours, after which your site serves securely over automated HTTPS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will starting on a subdomain hurt my Google rankings?
Not for direct response advertising or social media campaigns. However, if your long-term strategy focuses heavily on organic SEO authority, having your own top-level custom domain is recommended.
Can I upgrade from a hosted subdomain to a custom domain later?
Yes! With AssetGainLab, you can start on the Basic plan with an instant subdomain, and upgrade to a custom domain anytime without losing your leads, content, or customer data.
Final Thoughts
Do not let domain indecision delay your launch. Start with a clean hosted subdomain today, prove your offer, and attach your custom domain as your brand expands.
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