Generic and geo TLDs
We have extensive experience in supporting all varieties of generic & geo top-level domains (TLDs).
The internet has expanded and a revolution is underway; hundreds of new extensions are available. You are now able to select from over 1,100 new domain endings including dictionary words. This list is set to grow.
When ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers next opens a window for applications, any public or private sector organisation can apply for a new website extension. Why don’t you join the expanding internet and allow us to support you in applying for and running your own generic or geo TLD? With our years of experience, you can rely on our expertise to support you every step of the way.
What is a generic domain extension?
A generic domain extension is a dictionary word that can be used to the right of the dot. Traditionally generic extensions have been .com, .org or .net. However, this has now expanded with hundreds of words available such as .fashion, .fishing or .law.
What is a geo domain extension?
A geo domain extension is geographic; a TLD that represents a region such as .miami, .wales or .bayern. This differs from the traditional country codes like .uk, .de, .ca; the two letter identifiers reserved for countries, sovereign states, or dependent territories.
Why go generic?
Consumers expect to have an extension that clearly defines the purpose of their online presence, whether that’s for their hobby or business. Have you identified a niche? Do you have an area of expertise? Why not create a registry to match and offer consumers a choice that fits with their passion?
What can you do with a generic TLD?
- Create your business terms - once you’ve secured your word to the right of the dot, you can decide who you would like to sell them to. This could be mass market (e.g.: .cooking) or a sector with specific eligibility criteria such as .law – the distinct, official and trusted website extension for the legal industry.
- Sell your domains - after you’ve established your terms and pricing, you will be able to sell your domains through a channel of registrars, or become the registrar yourself. A registrar offers additional services needed to create a website such as hosting, website builders or security certificates.
- We support your growth - for your application to be successful, you need to appoint a service provider to protect your systems and run your infrastructure. When choosing, you should consider whether they can support your wider business objectives. Some providers will be able to help you grow your business through leveraging their industry expertise, marketing support or existing partnerships. Nominet has a channel of over 2500 registrars and resellers; many could be integral to your go-to-market strategy.
Why go geo?
As website extensions become more diverse, consumers will be looking for more choice to find the right home on the web for their community. This is your opportunity to create an online space for your region to thrive. You could even set eligibility criteria, providing additional credibility to local businesses, helping to fly the flag for your community on a global platform.
What can you do with your DotGeo?
- Showcase community projects - by securing your own .geo, you are providing an online platform for local projects to showcase themselves and identify with a specific region such as local parks, community centres or charity events.
- Support local campaigns - with your .geo domain, local campaigns, such as community action groups or upcoming election campaigns, can be promoted, clearly identifying them with the local area.
- Promote local businesses - making your .geo accessible for local businesses, for example shops or restaurants, enables them to clearly identify with the region and make it easier for visitors to find amenities in the area.
FAQs
A generic TLD is simply a dictionary word or abbreviation of three or more distinct characters. Generic TLDs have been classed as such for historical reasons, to distinguish them from country specific TLDs such as .uk or .de.
There are specific technical rules which will apply to all proposed gTLD strings, for example, an application for a string composed entirely of numbers would be rejected. Applicants for a gTLD that is a geographic name must also meet additional requirements. See the section on Geographics.
Currently there is no process for reservations or pre-applications and there is unlikely to be one. ICANN, the non-profit corporation responsible for generic TLD applications, does not endorse third party organisations to do this. Be aware of organisations who claim they can.
A geo domain extension is a form of generic application linked to a geographical region, examples include .miami, .wales and .bayern. This is different from the traditional country codes such as .uk, .de, .ca which are the two-letter identifiers reserved for countries, sovereign states, or dependent territories.
Any public or private organisation can apply for a geographical TLD, however they are likely to need the backing of the governments or public authorities for the application to be authorised.
During the first round of applications there were some specific rules identified when applying for a geographical generic name. ICANN ensured appropriate consideration was given to the interests of governments or public authorities in that place. Applications for country names and country codes (as per ISO 3166-1 standards) have not formed part of the generic TLD process to date.
However, the following are considered with support or non-objection from the relevant governments or public authorities:
- Capital cities
- City names
- Subnational place name
- UNESCO regions
Get in touch
For more information, submit your details or contact us on:
UK: +44 (0) 330 236 9478
Email: [email protected]