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Having a personalized domain is crucial for establishing an online footprint, as it plays a significant role in defining a brand’s identity, boosting credibility, and enhancing online reputation.
Having a carefully selected domain for a website, blog, or online store can provide significant advantages in different areas, particularly in the current digital landscape where individuals are increasingly relying on social media to establish their presence. This unique virtual address can serve as a crucial asset, offering diverse opportunities for various types of businesses.
It is crucial to understand the concept of a domain, its categories, and the registration rules within this framework.
This article explores the primary domain categories and their distinctions, which can be crucial for individuals selecting a domain for their company or online project. Keep reading to learn more!
What does a domain refer to?
A domain is a distinct address that serves to identify and locate a website or application online, similar to a house address. Different domain categories exist, each with specific purposes and features, but let’s begin by covering the fundamental concepts before delving into the main categories.
A domain typically consists of two primary components in its structure.
- When registering a domain, the domain name is the chosen part of the domain, such as “example” in the domain “example.”
- The domain extension, also known as Top-Level Domain or TLD, is the part that comes after the domain name and can convey information about the website’s purpose, location, or organization type.
The components of a domain are divided by periods. It is important to note that a second top-level domain (TLD) can be included to indicate the domain’s country of origin. Additionally, subdomains can be added to the left of the primary domain name. To clarify, refer to the diagram provided.
I suggest reading the article on what a domain is to gain further understanding of the topic.
The main domain categories are found in the Top-Level Domains (TLDs). Let’s learn more about this now.
Best websites for domain registration can also be found.
What does Domain Category refer to?
The domain category typically follows the domain name and aims to assist users in recognizing the nature of the content or service offered at the specific address, although this is not always the case.
The most frequent domain categories include TLDs (Top-Level Domains) and ccTLDs (Country Code Top-Level Domains).
Top-Level Domains (TLDs) are the most general types of domains, like .com, .org, .net, and .info, among others. They are commonly used worldwide by websites and are not associated with any particular country. For instance, a website utilizing the .com domain is typically intended for commercial use.
Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs) are domains assigned to specific countries, like .br for Brazil, .uk for the UK, and .ca for Canada. They are primarily utilized by websites associated with a particular country or business location, with some exceptions.
Some country code top-level domain endings, intended for country identification, are often utilized for different purposes in reality. Here are a couple of instances:
The ccTLD .ai, originally designated for Anguila, is now commonly utilized for websites and services related to artificial intelligence. Similarly, the ccTLDs .am and .fm, which were intended for Armenia and Federated States of Micronesia, are frequently used by radio stations and podcast programs.
Each top-level domain (TLD) has registration rules that must be followed, making it impossible to choose a domain category arbitrarily. For instance, in Brazil, certain entities, like NIC.br, set the rules for registering domains under .br.
Before you purchase a domain, it is essential to consider the most suitable category for your content and audience, similar to selecting the perfect location for your online store in the digital world.
For those interested in exploring domain names further, here is another reading suggestion explaining TLD, gTLD, and ccTLD, focusing on top-level domains.
Main categories of domains
Generic TLDs and ccTLDs are the main and most commonly used domain categories on the internet. Let’s explore some of the popular domain categories within these groups.
Main categories of domains in Brazil
In Brazil, registering a domain directly in the name format .br is not allowed except for special entities. Domains that wish to have a Brazilian address typically use the format example.cat.br, where “cat” represents the category of the domain.
Registry.br mandates the submission of specific details prior to registration, including name, identification numbers, address, and email, for both individuals and companies. This information is publicly accessible through Whois tools for .br domains, unlike international domains where key contact details can be concealed.
We will learn about some of the primary domain categories utilized by Brazilian websites.
It is the top and most widely used category on websites ending in .br, originally intended for businesses in Brazil but now commonly used for any type of website.
Non-profit organizations in Brazil, including charitable institutions, NGOs, and other entities supporting social causes, can apply for the .org.br category by providing proof of their nature through documentation submission to the Registry.
Originally targeted at tech companies and internet providers, the .net.br domain category is now utilized more broadly.
Category utilized by educational establishments in Brazil, including schools, colleges, and universities.
Category designated for Brazilian government agencies and entities.
New domain categories have been incorporated into the .br extension ecosystem in recent years.
Category targeting applications.
dev.br: For developers and development platforms.
Domain category for blogs is blog.br.
Brazilian cities with a population exceeding 500,000 residents were given the opportunity to select their own top-level domains through a public vote facilitated by NIC.br.
Rio de Janeiro: Urban area in Rio de Janeiro.
City of São Paulo: sampa.br.
Porto is known as the Joyful City.
Florianópolis is known as the City of Floripa.
Fortaleza city in Brazil.
São Paulo ABC region on abc.br.
Victoria City can be found on vix.br.
Besides cities, there are various domain categories designed for professionals like lawyers, engineers, veterinarians, and more.
You can view the complete list of categories for .br domains by visiting this link.
Also check out: creating a website for an app using Wix
Main global domain classifications
The registration rules for international domains can vary significantly from those for national domains like those ending in .br. In many instances, you can register any domain extension without the need for specific documentation.
ICANN mandates that individuals or businesses maintain current contact information for domain registration, which must be accessible to the public through Whois-type tools and domains ending in .br. However, contact details can be concealed using “domain privacy” services provided by various domain registration companies.
We will learn about some of the primary domain categories used globally.
It is a widely used and versatile extension that is commonly linked to commercial or business websites, but has also been utilized by websites across different sectors and fields since the early days of the internet. Explore further information about the .com extension.
Originally designed for nonprofit organizations, it is now utilized by a range of websites.
Initially created for technology and networking firms, .net is now commonly utilized by organizations and businesses across different sectors.
Often utilized by websites that offer general or news updates.
.gov is a top-level domain reserved for U.S. government entities.
Domain category utilized by corporations and websites in the technology sector.
Some domain extensions like .app, .dev, and .store were introduced for distinct functions in Brazil, serving as helpful indicators for users regarding the website’s purpose.
Some country domain extensions are repurposed for other uses, such as the .io domain originally intended for the British Indian Ocean Territory but now commonly used by technology companies.
These examples represent some of the primary domain categories. To see the full list of international domain extensions, you can check out a Wikipedia page or a text file regularly maintained by ICANN.
Which category of domain should I select for my website?
Choosing a domain name and category for registration depends on the goals of the project, such as whether it is a personal blog, online store, or institutional website.
Consider your target audience when selecting a domain extension, as it can convey key information to visitors. Tailor your choice of domain category to align with your online strategy and goals.
The availability of the desired name within the preferred category could impact the decision on the domain extension chosen. If the name is already in use and unavailable for registration, opting for the same name but in a different category could be considered. However, caution should be exercised when selecting a domain closely resembling an existing one to avoid potential negative implications on brand development.
In numerous situations, it is advisable to register multiple domains for the same website or project, despite the previous point made. Find out more in the article on why you should consider registering several domains for your website.
I also suggest reading the article on how to select a domain for your website to further understand the topic.
In summary
We learn about the primary domain categories, both domestic and international, in this article. Selecting a domain is a crucial aspect of establishing any online project. I trust that you now grasp the main domain categories and their distinctions after reading this article.
Before you register a domain, conduct thorough research and consider seeking guidance from digital marketing experts if needed. A thoughtfully chosen domain that aligns with your business strategy not only enhances your online identity but also aids visitors in remembering and finding your website easily. Best of luck with your online endeavors, as your domain is the initial key to success!
Here are some top websites where you can register your domain if you’re prepared to make your choice.
Publication date: 16/10/2023 (last revised on 22/07/2025)
Concepts are identified by tags.
