A top-level domain (TLD) is the highest-level segment of a website’s domain name, located at the end of the domain name. TLDs are used to categorize and identify different types of websites and organizations on the Internet.
There are several types of TLDs, including:
- Generic TLDs (gTLDs): These include .com, .org, .net, .info, .biz, and others. They are meant for general use and are not restricted to any particular industry or organization.
- Country-Code TLDs (ccTLDs): These include .uk, .fr, .de, .au, and others. They are specific to a particular country or geographic region and are usually restricted to organizations and individuals located within that region.
- Sponsored TLDs: These include .edu, .gov, .mil, and others. They are intended for use by specific organizations or groups, such as educational institutions, government agencies, and military organizations.
The choice of TLD can have an impact on a website’s search engine visibility, as some TLDs may be perceived as more credible or authoritative than others. Some TLDs may also be subject to additional regulations or restrictions, such as country-code TLDs, which may only be registered by individuals or organizations located within that country.