How to Find Out Who Made a Website
May 30, 2025
Have you ever stumbled upon a beautifully designed website and thought, "Who made this?" Whether you're a business owner looking to hire the designer, a developer curious about the competition, or just someone intrigued by great digital work, finding out who created a website can be both insightful and useful. In this guide, we’ll walk you through different ways to identify the person, team, or agency behind a website.
1. Check the Website Footer
Start with the easiest place—scroll to the bottom of the page. Many web developers, designers, or agencies include a small credit line in the footer. It might say:
"Designed by XYZ Studio"
"Website by John Smith"
"Powered by ABC Digital"
Sometimes this credit is hyperlinked, taking you directly to the creator’s own website or portfolio.
Tip: If you're using a mobile device, rotate to landscape or check the desktop version—some footer content may be hidden or minimized on mobile.
2. Use a WHOIS Lookup Tool
Domain registration details are publicly available through WHOIS lookup tools. These tools can reveal:
The name of the registrant
Organization (if used)
Email address (unless privacy protection is enabled)
Popular WHOIS tools:
Note: Many website owners use domain privacy protection to mask personal info. But if it's a professional agency, the business name might still be visible.
3. Inspect the Source Code
Right-click on the webpage and choose “View Page Source” (or press Ctrl+U / Cmd+Option+U). Then search for metadata or developer comments.
Look for:
HTML comments like
These small clues can reveal the identity or agency name of the creator.
4. Analyze the Website's Technology Stack
Tools like BuiltWith or Wappalyzer can identify which technologies and platforms a website uses, such as:
CMS (WordPress, Webflow, Shopify, etc.)
Hosting provider
Analytics tools (like Google Analytics or Hotjar)
Why this helps: Some CMS themes or frameworks include creator information. Also, certain platforms (like Webflow) may display template author credits.
5. Look Up Hosting Information
You can sometimes determine who hosts the website and whether it's part of a group of websites (common with freelance developers or small agencies).
Use tools like:
This won't always lead you to the creator directly, but it can offer context or related sites they’ve worked on.
6. Search Social Media and LinkedIn
Businesses often announce new website launches on social media—and tag the designer or agency.
Try this:
Search the business name + "website by" on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn
Check recent posts or blog announcements for credits
Agencies and freelancers usually showcase client work, so you might find the answer on their own profile too.
7. Browse Website Galleries Like a-fresh.website
If the website you admire has a strong visual design, it might be featured on design inspiration platforms.
Our gallery at a-fresh.website curates the best modern, clean, and creative website designs—including B2B, SaaS, and personal portfolios. Each listing often includes the creator’s name or a link to their site, making it easier to track down the designer.
8. Just Ask
If you can’t find any information using the above methods, the most straightforward solution is to reach out.
Use the website’s contact form or general email and send a short, polite message:
Hi there! I came across your website and really loved the design. Would you be open to sharing who built it? I’m currently exploring options for a similar project.
Most site owners are happy to share this info—especially if it could bring more business to their designer.
Conclusion
Tracking down who made a website can feel like digital detective work, but with the right tools and steps, it’s very doable. From footer credits and WHOIS records to tech analysis and curated galleries like a-fresh.website, you have plenty of options. Whether you're seeking inspiration or collaboration, knowing the creator can open the door to valuable opportunities.