The top-level domain (TLD), or domain extension, is the part after the last dot: .com, .de, .shop. It is run by a registry with its own price and rules, and it shapes how visitors perceive your site.
Key terms
| Type | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Generic (gTLD) | .com, .net, .org, .info | Open to anyone, worldwide audience. .com is the most recognised. |
| Country code (ccTLD) | .de, .uk, .us, .sg, .pk | Tied to a country; some require local presence. Strong local trust. |
| New gTLDs | .shop, .online, .tech, .app | Descriptive and often available; some have higher renewal prices. |
| Sponsored / restricted | .edu, .gov, .bank | Only for eligible organisations. |
Does the TLD affect SEO?
Search engines treat generic TLDs, including new ones, equally. A country-code TLD is a signal that a site targets that country, which helps local results there but can limit reach elsewhere. Content and links matter far more than the extension.
How to choose
- Global audience: try
.comfirst. - One country: the local ccTLD often builds the most trust.
- Name taken: a relevant new TLD (
.shopfor a store) beats an awkward.comwith hyphens. - Check renewal prices, not just the first-year offer.
- Protect your brand: register common variants and redirect them to the main domain.
Note: Some TLDs, such as .app and .dev, require HTTPS for every site. MdmHost's free AutoSSL handles that automatically.