What is a TLD? Top Level Domains Explained
When you’re in the process of setting up your website, the first thing you’ll need is a domain name. You may have heard of the term “TLD” before, but what does it actually mean? And more importantly, which one should you choose for your business?
Read more as we break down exactly what a top level domain (TLD) is and how the right extension can impact both your brand authority and SEO.
What is a Top Level Domain (TLD)?
A Top Level Domain (TLD) or domain extension, is the first segment of a domain name, the part after the final dot. For example, in uk2.net, the TLD is .net.
TLDs were built to help segment websites by their purpose, organisation type or geographical location. They are the highest level in the hierarchy of the Domain Name System (DNS) of the internet.
Breaking Down the Most Popular TLDs
Not all TLDs mean the same thing. It all depends on your goals as some carry more “trust” compared to others. Let’s breakdown some of the most popular top level domains:
The .com domain extension is the most commonly recognised TLD on the planet. It was originally created for commercial businesses but has now become the default.
Use Cases: Businesses with worldwide ambitions or international customers.
Benefits: High trust value and easy to remember.
The .co.uk extension is a Country Code TLD which is specifically for the United Kingdom.
Use Cases: UK companies targeting local audiences
Benefits: Both users and search engines recognise that your business is British which can improve local SEO rankings within UK search results.
Typically, .org was created for non-profit organisations or charities.
Use Cases: Charities or educational hubs.
Benefits: Conveys community and the mission to help others.
.io has been taken on by the tech industry.
Use Cases: Tech startups and developers.
Benefits: Trendy and has often better availability than .com.
Over the years, there has been a rise in new TLDs. They are perfect for niche branding such as .photography or .shop.
Use Cases: Specific businesses seeking creative, unique URLs.
Benefits: Good availability and niche.
Which Top Level Domain Should You Choose for a UK Business?
If you are a UK-based business, the choices usually come down to .co.uk or .com.
.co.uk is more often the superior choice. It enables British consumers to feel more confident buying from a .co.uk website as they know things like shipping costs or consumer rights are applicable to them. Google also uses Country Code TLDs as a signal for targeting. If a London user makes a search, Google is more likely to prioritise .co.uk compared to a generic TLD.
.com is perfect if you are selling products or services from the offset, .com could be the more suitable choice as you are not bound to a specific country. If possible, it is wise to register both TLDs to prevent competitors from getting close to your brand.
Understanding what a TLD is the key first step to building a digital footprint. No matter if you choose global or local authority for your domain name, ensure it aligns to your business aims.