Domain Extensions and What Purpose They Serve

Domain Extensions

Domain extensions are the letters that come after the final dot. Typically, it either reflects the website`s category or where it is located, in some cases both. A quick example – www.example.co.de – the website is commercial and located in Germany. 

Types  

There are three types of domain extensions – Generic Top-Level Domains, Sponsored Top-Level Domains and Country-Code Top-Level Domains. More information about them can be found below. 

gTLDs

The Generic Top-Level Domains or gTLDs category includes the following extensions – .com, .org, .net. These were some of the first domain extensions, that`s why they are labeled “generic” in contract to country-code extensions. Such domains are not restricted in terms of who can own them and do not require a representative. 

sTLDs

Sponsored Top-Level Domains or sTLDs typically are used by a specific entity. That could be a branch of government, a business, or another type of group. Some of the most common sTLDs – .mil, .gov, .edu. 

ccTLDs

Country-Code Top-Level Domains or ccTLDs are intended to be specific to countries, sovereign states, and territories. Each country-code domain extension has its own rules.  

How to choose a domain extension

Be careful when choosing domain extensions for your site. Consider the following factors when deciding which domain extension to choose. 

Website Purpose

An essential factor to consider when choosing a domain extension is the purpose of your website. For example, most nonprofit organizations selects .org extension because it gives them apart from education and government agencies. 

.com

For most websites the reliable .com is the best way to go. People recognize and trust this extension. 

Clear Purpose

Domain extensions are designed to classify sites by their type or purpose. Your domain name must be clear enough in order to choose the best extension for it.