Understanding Domain Extensions (TLDs)
When choosing a domain name, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right domain extension—also known as a Top-Level Domain (TLD). From the classic .com
to newer and more specialized options like .tech
, .store
, or .bd
, the TLD you choose can affect your brand identity, trustworthiness, and even SEO.
In this article, we’ll break down what TLDs are, the different types available, and how to choose the best one for your website.
🌐 What Is a Domain Extension (TLD)?
A domain extension, or TLD (Top-Level Domain), is the last part of a domain name—the suffix that comes after the dot.
📌 Example:
In the domain servers9.com:
servers9
is the second-level domain.com
is the TLD (domain extension)
TLDs are managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and regulated by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers).
🧭 Types of Domain Extensions
There are three main types of domain extensions:
1. gTLD – Generic Top-Level Domains
These are the most common and open for public registration.
Popular gTLDs include:
.com
– Commercial (most trusted and popular).net
– Network services.org
– Non-profits and organizations.info
– Informational websites.biz
– Business-related sites
There are also new gTLDs like:
.tech
,.shop
,.blog
,.online
,.store
,.xyz
, etc.
2. ccTLD – Country Code Top-Level Domains
Two-letter extensions assigned to countries and territories.
Examples:
.bd
– Bangladesh.uk
– United Kingdom.us
– United States.in
– India.ca
– Canada
Many businesses use ccTLDs to localize their websites or target specific regions.
3. sTLD – Sponsored Top-Level Domains
TLDs that are managed by private organizations with specific purposes.
Examples:
.edu
– Educational institutions.gov
– U.S. government entities.mil
– Military.int
– International organizations
These are restricted and only eligible entities can register them.
🎯 How to Choose the Right Domain Extension
Choosing the right TLD depends on your website’s goals, target audience, and availability.
✅ Tips:
- Use
.com
if it’s available—it’s the most trusted and widely recognized. - Use ccTLDs (like
.bd
) to target country-specific visitors. - Use new gTLDs like
.store
or.blog
if you want a descriptive or brandable domain. - Avoid obscure or confusing extensions unless they align with your niche or branding.
📈 Do Domain Extensions Affect SEO?
Google treats most TLDs equally, meaning a .com
, .net
, or .store
can rank just as well—if the content and SEO are optimized. However:
- ccTLDs like
.bd
,.uk
, or.in
signal geographic relevance, which is great for local SEO. - Familiar extensions (like
.com
or.org
) may perform better with user trust and click-through rates.
📦 Where to Buy a Domain?
You can register domains directly from your Servers9 Client Area, with a wide range of TLDs available.
🧩 Related Articles
- Managing Your Domains at Servers9
- How to Enable or Disable Domain’s Privacy Protection
- Nameservers Setup: Pointing Your Domain to Hosting
- Managing Domain Contacts
Understanding domain extensions (TLDs) is key to building a strong and trustworthy online identity. Whether you’re going global with .com
, targeting local visitors with .bd
, or branding creatively with .tech
or .store
, choosing the right TLD helps position your site for success.
📣 Need help choosing or registering a domain?
👉 Submit a support ticket