A domain extension, also called a top-level domain or TLD, is the ending of a web address, such as .com in yourbusiness.com. Every extension is managed by a registry, and some come with their own rules about who can register them.
Choosing an extension is mostly about trust and memorability. A familiar ending is easier to remember and type, while a specialised ending can tell visitors what your website is about before they visit.
The three main types
- Generic (gTLDs): .com, .net and .org, recognised worldwide
- Country-code (ccTLDs): .uk, .ca and .au, linked to a country
- New gTLDs: .online, .store and .tech, for specific industries and ideas
.com
The best-known extension in the world. Choose it first if your name is available.
.net
A popular alternative to .com, often used by technology and internet businesses.
.org
Widely used by nonprofits, communities, open-source projects and associations.
.ai
Popular with AI startups, software products and technology brands.
.io
A favourite with developers, startups and software-as-a-service products.
.co
A short, modern alternative for companies, startups and personal brands.
.online
A clear, general-purpose ending for any business or project that lives online.
.store
Tells visitors straight away that they can shop on your website.
.tech
Suits technology companies, product launches, events and tech blogs.
.blog
A memorable ending for personal blogs, company blogs and writers.
.co.uk
The best-known choice for businesses serving customers in the UK.
.ca
For Canadian businesses and individuals. Canadian presence requirements apply.
Start with .com if it is available, because it is the ending most people type by default. If your name is taken, a relevant new extension can be just as effective, as long as it is short and easy to say out loud.
If most of your customers are in one country, a country-code extension can help them recognise you as local. Many businesses also register their main name in a few extensions to protect their brand.
Quick checklist
- Is it short, easy to spell and easy to say?
- Does it match what your website is about?
- Will your customers recognise and trust it?
- Are there registration rules you need to meet?
- Should you also register other endings to protect your name?
Does the domain extension affect SEO?
Google treats generic extensions like .com, .online and .tech equally. Country-code extensions such as .co.uk can signal that your website targets a specific country, which helps local results but not international ones.
Why do prices differ between extensions?
Each extension is run by a registry that sets its own wholesale price and renewal price. Specialised and premium extensions often cost more than .com.
Can I change my domain extension later?
You cannot change the extension of an existing domain, but you can register a new domain and redirect the old one to it.
Do some extensions have registration rules?
Yes. Some country-code extensions, such as .ca, require a connection to that country. We will tell you if an extension has requirements when you search.
Should I register more than one extension?
Many businesses register their main name in a few popular extensions and redirect them to their main website. It protects your brand and catches visitors who type the wrong ending.
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