Types of Domain Names: A Helpful Guide
Navigating the world of domain names is a big deal when setting up your online presence. You’ve got a lot of options, from the usual .com and .net to more specific ones like .info, .biz, or even ones that show your location like .nyc and .london. Each has its job and can affect how people see your website. If you know what each type does, you can pick one that shows who you are as a business and helps your online marketing. Want to look professional, show where you’re based, or highlight your industry? Choosing the right domain name is a smart move on your way to going digital.
What are domains?
Domains are like addresses on the web. They’re simple, easy-to-remember names you type into your browser to visit a website, rather than using a complex series of numbers (IP addresses). Each one is unique and helps you find websites easily.
Elements of a domain name
Let’s break down the structure of a domain name to help you understand how they direct us around the internet with ease:
Top-level domain (TLD)
The top-level domain (TLD) is the part of the domain name located to the right of the last dot. It’s the highest level of domain names on the internet. Common examples include .com, .org, and .net for general use and country-specific versions like .uk for the United Kingdom and .de for Germany.
Example: www.example.com
Domain name
The domain name includes the entire human-readable web address that people type into their browser to find your website. It comprises the TLD and the second-level domain (the part directly left of the TLD). Instead of typing a complex website’s IP address, users enter the domain name.
Example: In www.example.com, example.com is the domain name.
Root domain
Think of the root domain as the core of your website’s domain structure. It combines your unique domain name with the TLD, excluding subdomains or prefixes like www. It’s typically the base from which subdomains are created.
Example: In shop.example.com, example.com is the root domain.
Subdomain
Subdomains are added to the front of the root domain to help organize and navigate different website sections. They can denote specific areas or functions, such as a blog or a web store.
Example: In blog.example.com, blog is a subdomain that points directly to the blog section of the example.com site.
Domain types
Domain types are the categories within the internet’s Domain Name System (DNS). They each serve a unique purpose and audience. From the widely recognized .com and .org to country-specific codes and industry-specific domains, understanding these types can greatly enhance your web presence and branding strategy.
Top-Level Domains (TLDs)
- Generic top-level domains (gTLDs): These are the most common domain extensions, including .com, .org, .net, .info, and .biz. They are often used for various purposes and by different types of businesses and organizations.
- Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs): These are two-letter domain name extensions assigned to countries or geographical locations, like .uk for the United Kingdom, .de for Germany, .ca for Canada. They are usually used by entities connected with these countries.
- Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs): These domains are sponsored by specific organizations and represent specific communities, industries, or groups, such as .edu (educational institutions), .gov (government entities), .mil (military), and .aero (aviation industry).
Second-level domains
These are the domains directly below a TLD in the DNS hierarchy. For example, in example.com, example is a second-level domain. People typically purchase this domain from a domain registrar to establish their own website’s unique address.
Third-level domains
Third-level domains or subdomains organize and navigate different sections of a website. They are the third level of a domain’s hierarchy and help segregate extensive website content.
You might encounter subdomains like blog.example.com or shop.example.com, where blog and shop are subdomains used to host a blog and a store, respectively.
Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs)
IDNs are domains that include characters in the local representation of languages not written with the twenty-six letters of the basic Latin alphabet. For example, domains in Chinese, Arabic, and Cyrillic letters. They allow users worldwide to use domains in local languages and scripts.
SEO best practices for domains
Pick the perfect domain extension
Choosing the right domain extension can shape how both users and search engines see your website. While .com or .org are great for broad appeal, a country-specific domain like .uk or .au might serve you better if your audience is located in a specific area.
Make your domain name snappy and memorable
A catchy, short domain name is not only easy to remember, but it’s also easy to type. This reduces mistakes when typing your URL and helps spread the word about your site. Try to steer clear of numbers and hyphens because they can confuse and dilute your site’s identity.
Smartly use keywords in your domain
Including a keyword in your domain can give users and search engines a quick hint about what your site is about. If you run a coffee shop, adding ‘coffee’ to your domain name can be a clever move. Just make sure it sounds natural and not forced.
Align your domain with your brand
It’s crucial that your domain reflects your brand to keep your online presence consistent. A domain that matches your brand boosts recognition and builds trust with your audience. This makes you more visible in search results.
Safeguard your brand
To protect your brand, consider securing various domain extensions and similar domain names. This will prevent competitors from registering close matches and ensure your audience doesn’t end up at the wrong site.
Registering your domain name at Domain.com
To register your desired domain name at Domain.com, follow these steps:
- Head to the Domains section of Domain.com and type your desired domain in the search bar and click Search.
- If the domain is available, it will automatically be added to cart. Select Continue.
- You’ll have the option to add domain add-ons. Add the necessary ones that you need. Once you’re finished, click Proceed to billing.
- Provide your billing information, create a Domain.com account, and enter your payment information. Review your shopping cart once more, then click Purchase now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your domain type can shape who swings by your site. Opt for a country-specific domain like .uk or .ca, and you’ll likely attract more local visitors. This is great for businesses focused on a specific geographic area. If you’re aiming for a global crowd, a .com or .net might be the way to go because they’re recognized worldwide.
Think about where your audience is. If your customers are mostly local, a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) can help your site rank better in local searches. But if you’re targeting a wider, international market, a generic TLD (gTLD) like .com might be better.
New domain extensions like .tech or .blog can set you apart and align closely with your work. However, they don’t yet have the same level of recognition as the classics like .com, which might make them a bit harder for some people to trust.
Yes, you can change your domain type if needed. It’s like moving to a new physical address. You’ll need to register a new domain, set up your site there, and redirect traffic from your old site to make sure everyone knows about the change. While this process can temporarily impact your search rankings, planning and seeking expert advice can help ensure a smooth transition.