If you’ve ever thought about buying an old website name to make your site rank faster, Google’s got some bad news: that strategy no longer works.
Google’s John Mueller recently explained why you shouldn’t bother with old website names that were created and then left inactive, also called expired or parked domains. Many believed that if they did, their new site would rank higher. But Google says that’s not how it works now.
What Google Explained
When a domain name expires, it’s like an empty house. No one lives there anymore.
Over time, Google stops paying attention to it.
When someone buys that old domain again and builds a new site, Google doesn’t treat it as brand new right away. It still remembers the way the site was, even if it was years ago.
That means your new website might not show up in Google searches right away, even if it looks great. Google needs to wait for some time to “learn” that your site is new and unique.
John Mueller also said that there’s no reset button to make Google forget that the old domain was used for. If the domain was used for spam or ads, it might still carry that “bad history.”
For more detailed info, check out the Search Journal blog about Expired domains
Why It Matters
Many people buy old domains hoping for a quick SEO boost. They think, “This site already has backlinks, so it should rank faster.”
But Google’s update makes it clear: Expired domains don’t give you an easy win.
Here’s what can go wrong:
- The old domain might still have bad or spammy backlinks.
- Google might still think it’s about something totally different.
- It takes time for Google to trust that the domain now belongs to a real business.
Instead of speeding things up, it can also slow down the process.
What Tech Support Plus I.T Services Advice
At Tech Support Plus, we’ve helped many clients who tried buying expired domains for quick results. Most ended up surprised when their new sites didn’t show up in search results.
Our advice? Do things the right way. Good SEO takes time, effort, and trust, not shortcuts.
1. Start Fresh with a Clean Domain
Buying a new domain name is usually the best option.
You’ll have a clean start, with no old problems or penalties.
2. Check Google Search Console
Always connect your site to Google Search Console.
This free tool shows if there are any issues, penalties, or things that stop your site from ranking.
3. Create Unique Brand Messages
Help Google see that your site is real and active.
You can do this by:
- Making a Google Business Profile
- Being active on social media
- Linking your site from trusted platforms like YouTube or LinkedIn
4. Follow Good SEO Habits
Whether your domain is old or new, SEO basics stay the same:
- Write helpful and original content
- Use clear keywords like digital services and SEO marketing
- Keep your website fast and easy to use on phones
- Post updates and blogs often
5. Be Patient
Search results do not happen instantly.
The more consistent you are, the more Google will trust your website.
“A domain name is like your reputation online. If it’s been sitting for years, it needs time to earn trust again.”
— Tech Support Plus Team
Think of it like this:
You buy an old restaurant and turn it into a tech store. Even if you change the sign and paint the walls, some people will still show up expecting to buy food..
That’s how Google treats old domains. It remembers what the website used to be and takes time to realize it’s something new.
That’s why quick tricks don’t work anymore.
Real SEO success comes from trust, good content, and consistency.
What You Can Do Right Now
If your website isn’t showing up in Google searches, don’t panic. Here’s a simple plan:
- Check for problems using Google Search Console.
- Write good content that your audience will find useful.
- Share your website on social media and other platforms.
- Get backlinks from trusted sites in your industry.
- Be consistent, keep improving, and update your site over time.
These small but steady steps will help Google see your website as new and trustworthy.
The Big Takeaway
Buying an expired domain might sound like an easy way to rank higher, but Google wants to see real, honest growth. It rewards websites that post good content, share updates, and build trust over time.
So don’t waste energy looking for quick SEO hacks. Instead, focus on building a brand that Google and your customers can trust.
That’s how you win online today.
Stay tuned for more updates from Tech Support Plus Digital Marketing News, your friendly guide to SEO and online growth.
Need Help Fixing Your Website Rankings?
If your site isn’t ranking or you think an old domain might be holding you back, our team at Tech Support Plus can help.
- Check if your domain has any old issues
- Improve your website’s SEO
- Create a simple plan to boost your online visibility
Contact Tech Support Plus today for a free website check-up and SEO consultation.
We’ll help you rebuild your domain’s strength the right way.
