Normally, getting a free domain name for your blog uses a subdomain or some other free domain extension from a domain registrar or website hosting service. Note that the idea is that a free domain name normally has limitations to the effect that it cannot be professional like what you would get with a paid domain. Still, they stay a great choice in case you are starting out and just want to test the waters. Here is how you can get a free domain name for your blog:
Get a subdomain:
Most web hosting services offer free sub-domains. A subdomain is actually an extension of the main domain. For example, suppose the hosting service is "example.com", then your subdomain can become "yourblog.example.com." This possibility is offered majorly by famous services like WordPress.com, Blogger, and Wix.
Free domain extension:
Some registrars offer free domain extensions like .tk, .ml, .ga, .cf and .gq. This happens with the aid of services like Freenom. You may register a free domain with any of the above domain extensions, but they come with limitations and are not that popular compared to traditional domain extensions.
Educational or non-profit programs:
Now, if you run an educational or non-profit blog, then you can get a free domain name under several programs. In some cases, the domain registrars themselves may have free domains for educational institutions or other registered non-profit organizations.
Free Website Builders:
Some builders, like Weebly and Wix, give clients a subdomain on their free plans. In a word, you will be able to construct a blog on their side and get a free subdomain.
Web Hosting Promotion:
Some of these web hosting companies will provide free domain names in their web hosting packages. Always be on the lookout for that elusive web host who has a special deal allowing them to offer a free domain name for the first year.
Free Trial Periods:
Some registrars give their customers a feel-good period, probably with the inclusion of free domain registration in the first week.
Community or Forum Gifts:
It's seldom that one or the other, a domain name or a hosting package, is given out as a prize or giveaway in online communities or forums. You can participate in those if you want to get a free domain name.