Generic top-level domain
a top level domain without country association From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is one category of internet domain with (TLDs) maintained by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) for use on the Internet.
Now, IANA differenting next groups of Inttop-level domain:[1]
- infrastructure top-level domain (.arpa)
- country-code top-level domains (ccTLD)
- sponsored top-level domains (sTLD)
- generic top-level domains (gTLD)
- generic-restricted top-level domains
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Generic Top-Level Domain
A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is one kind of top-level domain (TLD) used on the Internet. It is part of the Domain Name System (DNS), which helps computers find websites by name.[2]
Types of Top-Level Domains
The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) lists these types of top-level domains:[3][4]
- Infrastructure TLD – Example:
.arpa
- Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) – Like
.uk
,.in
, or.jp
- Sponsored TLDs (sTLDs) – Backed by a private sponsor, such as
.edu
or.gov
- Generic TLDs (gTLDs) – Examples include
.com
,.org
,.net
, and newer ones like.app
,.tech
- Generic-restricted TLDs – Like
.name
or.pro
, where some rules apply
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New gTLD Program
In 2012, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) allowed people and companies to apply for new gTLDs. This let organizations create domains like .google
, .bank
, or .music
.[5]
More than 1,200 new gTLDs have been added since then. ICANN plans to open a new round of applications in 2026, with updated rules, fees, and procedures for applying.[3][2][5]. On May 30, 2025 ICANN has published the first draft of the New gTLD Applicant Guidebook for the upcoming 2026 New gTLD Next Round seeking public comments. [6] [7] Post public comment the Final AGB will be published.
How gTLDs Are Used
gTLDs can be used by anyone, unless rules say otherwise. Some gTLDs are open to the public, while others are private or limited to certain groups. Businesses, cities, and even individuals use gTLDs to create custom web addresses. New gTLD Applicant Guide Book will have more detailed information about the next round. [8][9]
References
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