Key takeaways:
- Domain extensions, or top-level domains (TLDs), are the important final parts of a web address that categorizes a website and aids internet navigation.
- While domain extensions don’t directly affect SEO, their various aspects influence user CTR and overall brand credibility.
- Selecting the right domain extension requires considering factors such as branding, relevance, and availability.
Your website’s domain tells people who you are, but the final segment – the domain extension (or TLD) – is just as important. These two or three letters play a big role in shaping user perception, directly influencing things like visitors’ trust and motivation to click on your link.
In this guide, you’ll learn about domain extensions, their types, and how to choose the right one. Whether launching a new blog or an online store, it’s important to learn about domain extensions and apply them for online success.
What is a domain extension?
A domain extension, or a top-level domain (TLD), is the last segment of a domain name after the final “dot”. For instance, in “www.networksolutions.com,” “.com” is the domain extension.
Think of your domain name as your full street address (e.g., “123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 90210”). The domain extension is the zip code or the “CA 90210” part, specifying the general location or type of address within the larger address system.
What are the most common domain extensions?
Domain extensions, such as .com and .net., are used to classify websites according to purpose or geographical location. There are several types of domain extensions that serve different needs, and here are some of the most common ones:
| Type of TLD | Description | Examples |
| Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) | The most common and widely recognized domain extensions These are generic in nature and not tied to any specific country or industry | .com, .org, .net, .info |
| Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) | Assigned to specific countries or territories Often used to target a local audience and establish a local presence. | .us, .uk, .de, .ca |
| Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs) | Managed by private organizations or agencies that establish and enforce rules regarding eligibility to use the TLD | .gov, .edu, .mil, .aero |
| New generic top-level domains (new gTLDs) | Introduced to expand the limited number of traditional gTLDs Often tied to specific industries, interests, or communities | .tech, .app, .store, .online, .art |
| Infrastructure top-level domain | Exclusively used for technical infrastructure purposes Only one exists: .arpa, which is reserved for technical use by IETF | .arpa |
| Test top-level domains (tTLDs) | Designed for testing and documentation purposes Not intended for live, publicly accessible web addresses | .test, .example, .localhost, .invalid |
Why are domain extensions important?
Domain extensions are a way to show your website’s focus, but they also play a big role in how people see and interact with your site:
- Role in navigation
- Branding and memorability
- Trust and user expectations
- Credibility
- Click-through rate (CTR) and perceived relevance
Let’s delve in.
Role in navigation
Domain extensions are fundamental to how the Internet works. When you type a domain name into your browser, the domain extension helps the Domain Name System (DNS) direct your request to where the website is hosted.
Branding and memorability
Your domain extension is an important part of your online brand identity. Choosing it well can make your domain more memorable and relevant to your business.
For example, a US-based business might opt for a “.us” ccTLD for localization, while a tech startup may be better off with “.tech”.
Trust and user expectations
Certain domain extensions have a way of naturally instilling trust and shaping what users expect. For example, people feel more confident visiting websites that end in “.gov” when they’re looking for official government info, or “.edu” when they’re after academic resources.
On the other hand, unfamiliar extensions might sometimes raise questions, although new gTLDs are starting to be recognized. For example, “.app”, a new industry-specific domain extension, is gaining traction for tech entities.
Credibility
Picking the right domain extension helps make your site look more trustworthy. For example, a business website with a .com or .net domain feels more professional than one using a free subdomain. https://www.networksolutions.com/blog/what-is-seo/
Click-through rate (CTR) and perceived relevance
While domain extensions don’t directly impact search engine optimization (SEO) rankings, they can influence user behavior, which can, in turn, affect SEO. Websites with a relevant and trustworthy domain extension are more likely to generate higher click-through rates (CTR), which indirectly contributes to better search engine visibility and user engagement.
Who controls domain extensions?
Several key organizations oversee the governance and management of domain extensions, ensuring the stability and functionality of the Internet’s addressing system.
Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
ICANN is a global non-profit that helps keep the Internet stable and secure by managing important databases for domain names and IP addresses. It also sets rules for how domain names are given out and helps settle disagreements.
Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA)
IANA is a department of ICANN responsible for the global coordination of Internet Protocol (IP) addressing systems, the management of the DNS root zone (which contains the TLDs), and other Internet Protocol-related symbols and numbers. IANA handles the day-to-day operational aspects of managing the Internet’s unique identifiers.
Domain registries vs. registrars
They may sound similar, but they work in different ways. Here’s a breakdown of their functions:
- Domain registries. These organizations manage TLDs and operate a database of domains registered under a specific TLD. For example, Verisign is the registry for .com and .net.
- Domain registrars. These are companies accredited by ICANN (and authorized by registries) to sell and manage domain names directly to the public. They process your registration, renew your domain, and provide tools for managing your domain’s settings (like DNS records).
How to choose the right domain extension?
It’s important to choose the right domain extension because it shapes how people see your brand. Keep these things in mind when picking one:
- Branding
- Industry relevance
- Location
- Trust and security
- Domain availability
Consider the following key points, which we’ll expand on in more detail below:
- Branding. Choose a domain extension that matches your brand identity. For instance, a trendy gTLD like “.tech” might serve you better if you’re focused on technology. It helps your website stand out and communicates your brand’s niche more effectively.
- Industry relevance. Does your chosen extension relate to your industry or niche? As discussed, extensions like “.store” for e-commerce, “.org” for non-profits, or “.edu” for educational institutions communicate the nature of your website.
- Location. A ccTLD is excellent if your business or content targets a specific region. For example, a UK-based business would benefit from a “.uk” domain.
- Trust and security. Some extensions, like the .edu or .gov extension, seem more trustworthy with their history or rigid standards. SSL certificates will do the trick for security, but a professional-looking extension can still contribute to initial user trust.
- Domain availability. With so many established websites, there’s a good chance that someone has already taken your desired domain name with a “.com” extension. New individualized domain extensions have also been added, offering alternatives for traditional extensions.
By considering the key points recently mentioned, you can be sure your domain will fit your branding and meet your business goals.
How do you register a domain extension?
Registering a domain name with your own domain extension is straightforward. Here’s how domain registrations usually go:
- Search availability. Use a domain name search tool by domain registrars (like Network Solutions) to check your desired domain name and extension’s availability. The search tool will tell you if it’s free or if someone else has registered it.
- Pick a registrar. Choose a reputable domain name registrar. Factors to consider include pricing, customer support, additional services offered (like web hosting, website builders, SSL certificates), and ease of use of their platform.
- Register your domain. Once you’ve chosen an available domain name and registrar, it’s time to register it. To register your domain name, you have to provide your contact info, registration period, and payment details.
Note: Not all top-level domains (TLDs) are open for anyone to register. Some, like .gov, .edu, and .mil, have strict rules about who can get them. A few country-code TLDs also have specific criteria (such as residence).
What if my desired extension is taken?
If your preferred domain name with your desired extension is already registered, you have several options:
- Try a different extension. Explore other gTLDs or other relevant generic extensions. For example, if “yourbusiness.com” is taken, “yourbusiness.store” or “yourbusiness.online” might be available and suitable.
- Modify your domain name. Consider adding a word, a hyphen, or an abbreviation to your desired name. This could help make it available with your preferred extension.
- Contact the current owner. Some registrars offer a service to contact the current domain owner for a purchasing inquiry, though this can be expensive.
- Consider a premium domain. Some highly premium domains that were previously registered are available for purchase at a higher price.
Get your ideal domain extension with Network Solutions
To choose the right domain extension, you need to consider branding, credibility, and how well it fits your content. When you’re ready, start exploring options at Network Solutions, where you’ll find various domain extension options—from the classic to the fresh new TLDs. Plus, we offer other helpful services like dependable web hosting, easy-to-use website builders, and SSL certificates to boost your online presence.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, “domain extensions” and “TLDs” are used interchangeably. Both refer to the same part of a domain name – the segment after the final dot.
The best choice depends on your needs, target audience, and branding. For example, generic domain extensions fit for global recognition, while country code domain extensions work better for local audiences.
You cannot directly “change” a domain extension like changing a phone number. If you want a different domain extension, you must register a completely new domain name with that extension. You can then redirect your old domain to the new one.
Search engines treat all TLDs equally in terms of search ranking algorithms. However, they can indirectly affect SEO by influencing user behavior, such as CTR and perceived trustworthiness, which can indirectly impact search performance.
