Top-level domains (TLDs) are classified into generic top-level domains, new generic top-level domains, and country/region top-level domains. This topic explains the concept of TLDs and their suffixes.
Top-level domain classifications
Generic top-level domains
A generic top-level domain (gTLD) is a type of TLD in the Internet's Domain Name System. It is the most common type of TLD and represents different types of organizations or entities. Alibaba Cloud provides gTLD registration services for domain names such as .com, .net, .biz, .info, and .mobi. A gTLD is at the highest level of the Internet's domain name hierarchy and helps users identify and locate websites. For more information about gTLD suffixes, see Generic top-level domain suffixes.
New generic top-level domains
A new generic top-level domain (new gTLD) is a new type of TLD introduced into the Internet's Domain Name System. New TLD suffixes were opened for registration because traditional domain name suffix resources were becoming scarce. The first batch of new TLDs was approved by ICANN in 2012 and became available for global registration starting in 2014. Alibaba Cloud provides new gTLD registration services for domain names such as .top, .xyz, .shop, .art, and .ltd. These new TLDs help users better define their online identity, increase brand awareness, and promote the further development of the Domain Name System. For more information about new gTLD suffixes, see New generic top-level domain suffixes.
Country/region top-level domains
A Country Code Top-Level Domain (ccTLD) is a TLD established for a specific country or region according to international standards. Alibaba Cloud provides ccTLD registration services for domain names such as .cn, .cc, .co, and .tv. Each ccTLD is operated by a registry operator that follows local policies. For example, to register a domain name with a ccTLD, the registrant may need to be a local resident. A ccTLD is typically used to identify the geographic location or country/region of a website. It helps users understand the website's origin from its domain name and helps search engines classify websites and perform regional searches. For more information about ccTLD suffixes, see Country/region top-level domain suffixes.
In fact, ccTLDs extend beyond countries. They include suffixes for sovereign states, special administrative regions within countries, communities of countries, and other regions.
Top-level domain suffixes
Generic top-level domain suffixes
Domain name suffix | Meaning |
.com | Commercial organizations. Anyone can register. |
.net | Network organizations, such as Internet service providers and maintenance companies. Now, anyone can register. |
.biz | Business. |
.info | Network Information Service organizations. |
.pro | For accountants, lawyers, and doctors. |
.asia | Internet identity for the Asia region. |
.mobi | Optimized for mobile devices. |
New generic top-level domain suffixes
For more domain name suffixes, see Supported domain name suffixes for registration.
Domain name suffix | Meaning |
.top | Top-level domain. |
.xyz | Versatility and multifunctionality. |
.shop | Shops or shopping. |
.art | Art or creativity. |
.ltd | Limited liability company. |
.baby | Subjects related to parenting and infants. |
.bio | To display the resume, biography, or introductory information of an individual or organization. |
.city | Cities or city-related content or services. |