What Is the Difference Between gTLDs and ccTLDs?
A domain name is your online address that guides your customers to your webpage. However, choosing an NZ domain name is more challenging than it seems. There are a lot of aspects to consider for a perfect domain name.
It starts with choosing between two types of Top-Level Domains. A Top-level domain is formed by generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) and country-code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs). Let us understand in detail what these two terms mean and their difference.
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Difference between gTLDs and ccTLDs
| SR NO | Particulars | gTLDs | ccTLDs |
| 1 | Definition | A generic top-level domain is a broader concept not restricted to any specific country, allowing global registration. | A country code top-level domain targets a specific country or region, often denoted by a two-letter code. |
| 2 | Example | .com, .net, .org, .biz, .name, .pro | .in (India), .sg (Singapore), .tk (Tokelau), .io |
| 3 | Purpose | The generic domain name is used for various purposes, including commercial, network, non-profit, and restricted activities. | The country code top-level domain is utilized for targeting specific geographic locations or regions. |
| 4 | Registration requirement | Registering a generic top-level domain name with the original gTLD is simple and easy. You just need to find a registrar that ICANN approves and follow their rules and fees.
But when it comes to new gTLDs, for instance, .brand or .shop, the process is more complicated. You need to apply to create and manage the registry. This process can take a long time, sometimes more than 20 months. Plus, there are fees for applying and several other allied costs with it. |
Registration of country code top-level domains is also complex. The requirements may differ from country to country. Every country has a governing body that defines and deals with terms for registration.
Therefore, those businesses that fulfill that legal requirement are permitted to make use of country code top-level domains. You also need to be updated with updates provided by governing authorities, as they are capable of amending them. |
| 5 | Recognised | A generic top-level domain name widely recognized and used for diverse purposes. | Country code top-level domains are recognized locally and used for targeting specific countries or regions. |
| 6 | Recognition & Trust Factor | A generic top-level domain name is often perceived as trustworthy and memorable. However, with newer gTLDs, that may not be the case. | Country code |
