If you are going online with your business, congrats! But if you are choosing whatever TLD, stop right there! First, read everything you need to know about it.
What does TLD mean?
TLD means Top-Level-Domain and is the last domain name element.
Domain name construction involves three elements separated by a dot. On the left side, you have the subdomain (www). Then, you find the name or brand that introduces the type of business you own (example domain), and this is called Second Level Domain (SLD). Finally, in the end, the Top-Level-Domain comes (.us, .org, .net, .gov, .com). Now, you can easily visualize it, www.exampledomain.org.
Types of TLD
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICAAN) establishes the following categories for TLDs.
gTLD or generic top-level domains.
A wide variety of domains can be registered using generic TLDs. Here you will find very well-known choices such as .com and .org, used to make a difference between profitable and non-profitable businesses, .net, .info, and many more.
sTLD or sponsored top-level domains.
These are TLDs supported by specific groups, industries, organizations, professional fields, etc. Examples: .gov, .travel, .edu, .post, .jobs, etc.
ccTLD or country code top-level domains.
These TLDs are directly linked to countries or regions. They use a two-letter code to refer to the country. ccTLDs are a very convenient choice for identifying domains operating in specific countries or regions. If you plan to target a local market, you should think about using its TLD. For instance, .mx for Mexico, .nl for the Netherlands, .cn for China, .fr for France, etc.
Infrastructure top-level domain.
There is only one official TLD in this category, the Address and Routing Parameter Area or ARPA. It is exclusively available for the Internet Engineering Task Force.
Is TLD important?
Yes, the TLD is an integral part of the process of setting up a domain. The recommendation is to pick the one for your business accurately because:
- TLD is the second highest level in the DNS hierarchy. Without it, a domain name just won’t work.
- It provides key information to users, like the purpose of the domain, IP geolocation, and owner’s identity. This improves visitors’ trust to access your domain and purchase your ideas, products, or services.
- It is a sign of legitimacy to potential visitors.
- An accurate TLD for your domain is as important as having a memorable brand (SLD) for people to remember and access your domain.
- Once you define your domain name, it has to be registered, and that costs. The final price will vary based on the registrar you pick to arrange this process and the TLD you finally choose. Consider that there are many TLDs, and they have different costs. Make that investment pay off!
Conclusion
The TLD is an important component of your domain name. They are very few letters, but they are essential to clarify necessary information related to your business. Choose your TLD smartly!