Google Shuts Down business.site Websites

The move comes after Google sold its domains to Squarespace.

Highlights

• Google to shut down negocio.site and business.site domains on March 1, 2024.
• Suggests alternatives, such as Squarespace, Wix, Google Sites, GoDaddy, Shopify, and WordPress.
• Importance of self-hosted websites: customization, independence, security, scalability, professional outlook, data ownership, and adaptability.
• Search Berg’s web design service for a consistent, independent business website.

Google has announced that it will be shutting down negocio.site and business.site websites on March 1, 2024. These websites will no longer be accessible and will display a “page not found” error. The decision to shut down these websites comes as no surprise, given that Google recently sold its domains to Squarespace.

The Shutdown at a Glance

If you have a business.site website, it will be redirected to the Google Business Profile listing that’s associated with that website. However, on June 10, 2024, the website will no longer be available. This means that businesses that rely solely on these Google-created sites will need to find an alternative website builder to keep their online presence intact.

Google Site Alternatives

There are several alternatives to business.site websites that businesses can consider. One option is to use a website builder like Squarespace or Wix to create an independent business website. These platforms offer several features and customization options that can help you create a website that ticks your particular boxes.

Another option is to use Google Sites, which is a free website builder offered by Google. Square Online and Carrd are two other solid, free options, but they have not been recommended by Google. GoDaddy, Shopify, and WordPress, on the other hand, are on the search engine’s list of alternatives.

Why Self-Hosted Business Websites?

Having an independently hosted website is essential for businesses for the following reasons:

• More room for customization
• Less dependence on third-party platforms
• More security and scalability
• A more professional outlook
• Data ownership
• Adaptability to technological changes.

Self-hosting offers a reliable foundation for managing an online presence; it mitigates risks associated with platform disruptions and promotes brand credibility.

Read More: The Importance of a Website for Small Businesses

Trade Your Google Site for an Independent Business Website

Search Berg’s web design and development service can be the way for businesses to create a more consistent and independent business website. With Search Berg, you can create a platform and its app through any of the above website builders for your specific needs. You can also ensure it’s in running order and up to speed with the latest industry trends with our website maintenance services.

Learn More: How Much Does Website Maintenance Cost in 2024?