Should You Buy a .plus Domain Name?

Key takeaways 

• The .plus domain has positive implications like being a progressive company, which can improve your brand image.
• The .plus domain isn’t all upside. It isn’t as recognized or memorable as contemporary domain extensions like .com or .net. 
• Particular businesses like wholesalers or subscription services are suited for a .plus domain name as it can easily mesh with the business image and values. 

The .plus extension is a unique top-level domain (TLD) that can showcase your business as an innovative thought-leader. It presents the opportunity to highlight that your brand is unique and can offer something that competitors lack.  

However, a unique domain like .plus isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Because it’s eccentric and outside the norm, customers might forget it. Unlike a .com or .org, .plus isn’t as commonplace.  

Uniqueness isn’t all that it takes to build a powerful domain name. You also need to consider memorability and brand cohesion.  

Here, we’ll give you the full rundown on the .plus domain. We’ll help you understand the benefits it can offer you, while also explaining some of its downsides. With our help, you can fully leverage a .plus TLD while minimizing any risks to your brand. 

Key benefits of a .plus domain name 

Choosing a .plus domain comes with compelling benefits that can really boost your brand’s online presence. Know why it might be the right choice for you: 

• Branding power. A .plus domain extension opens up unique branding opportunities. It’s perfect for businesses that want to project a positive and progressive image, or for those offering inclusive services and added value. This domain helps emphasize your commitment to going above and beyond in your industry. 
• Global reach. Unlike country-specific domains, a .plus domain isn’t tied to any particular location, which makes it an excellent option for businesses looking to reach an international audience. Its universal appeal can help position your brand more globally. 
• High availability. Since .plus is a relatively new player in the domain market, it often has more names available than the older, more saturated domains like .com and .net. This gives you a better chance of snagging that perfect, straightforward domain extension that really fits your brand. 

Limitations of a .plus domain 

Opting for a .plus domain has its potential drawbacks that you should consider: 

• Recognition challenges. Being relatively new in the domain scene, a .plus doesn’t instantly resonate with the same level of recognition or trust as established domains like .com or .org. This can impact how new visitors perceive your site’s credibility. 
• Market perception. There’s a chance that some people might not view .plus domains as prestigious or serious as more traditional domain names. This perception could have an impact on how other businesses and consumers view your brand’s professionalism. 
• Risk of over-specialization. Owning a growing and evolving business makes a .plus domain extension inflexible if you decide to rebrand or expand into new markets. This could mean needing a new domain to better suit your altered business focus. 

Who should buy a .plus domain? 

When it comes to selecting the perfect domain name, the .plus domain has a lot to offer, especially for certain types of businesses and entrepreneurs. The .plus extension is one of the newer top-level domains that provides a unique opportunity for companies. Brands looking to emphasize the comprehensive nature of their offerings or promotions can use the TLD to reinforce their brand. 

Take note of these businesses that might benefit from a .plus domain: 

• Retailers and wholesalers. For businesses that deal with bulk or overstock items, a .plus domain is ideal. It immediately communicates that there’s more value or more products available, which can be good news for customers looking for deals or larger quantities. 
• Service providers offering premium packages. Companies offering comprehensive service packages or bundled deals could benefit from .plus domain names. They naturally imply an upgrade or enhanced service, which makes them perfect for businesses that want to highlight their superior offerings. 
• Subscription services. A .plus domain can benefit subscription-based models, where customers gain additional benefits or exclusive content. These can include anything from media streaming services to exclusive membership clubs, where the ‘plus’ signifies more content or additional perks. 
• Community and support networks. Organizations that provide added support or resources, such as parent networks, counseling services, or career development groups, can use the .plus domain to communicate the extra support and extended community they provide. 
• Tech companies with expanded features. Tech companies that offer extended or enhanced versions of their products, such as advanced software tools or expanded platforms, could use a .plus domain to differentiate their premium offerings from the standard ones. 

How to buy a .plus domain name 

Registering a .plus domain name at Network Solutions is easy. Here’s how to do it: 

1. Visit Network Solutions and type your desired domain name in the search bar and click the search button. 
2. Select the .plus domain extension and click the add button. 
3. You’ll see a confirmation message if your domain name is available. Click Continue. 
4. Log in to your Network Solutions account or continue as a guest if you don’t have an account yet. 
5. Choose the package you want to avail yourself of and select the term durations for the items you’re purchasing, then proceed to Checkout. 
6. Enter your payment details and click Place your Order. 

The ideal setup: .plus domain with WordPress hosting 

Pairing a .plus domain with a WordPress hosting plan is a smart move for anyone launching a new website. Known for its ease of use, flexibility, and wide range of features, WordPress is the go-to platform for both newbies and seasoned developers. 

Using a .plus domain can enhance your website by emphasizing the extra value or premium aspect of your services. This matches WordPress’s customizable features well. Together, they make setting up your website simpler. They also help sharpen your brand image by making it clearer and more attractive to your audience. 

Plus, WordPress hosting plans are optimized for performance, which ensures your site runs smoothly and quickly—something today’s online users expect. This is particularly great for startups and entrepreneurs who are keen on building a strong, impactful online presence that really shows they’re offering something extra. 

Pick your perfect .plus today 

If you’re thinking about a domain that really stands out, the .plus domain should be on your list. It’s fresh, not yet crowded, and perfect for businesses that want to highlight they offer something extra, like premium services or added value. 

While it’s true that being relatively new might lead to some recognition challenges compared to a .com, the unique branding opportunity it offers can be a huge advantage, especially for startups and small businesses. 

Build a .plus website of your dreams with the help of Network Solutions. Our domain management, website security, and website building solutions can keep your website running and secure so you can focus on expanding your brand!  

Frequently asked questions