Glossary · Internet & Web

TLD (Top-Level Domain)

A TLD is the last label of a domain name, such as .com, .org or .in, and sits at the top of the DNS hierarchy under the root.

Updated October 6, 2026

A TLD (top-level domain) is the final part of a domain name, after the last dot. Examples are .com, .org, .net, .dev and country codes such as .in.

Why it matters

The TLD decides which registry operates the name, the rules for registration and often the price. Some are open to anyone, others are restricted to certain organizations or countries. Visitors may also associate a TLD with trust or location, though it is not a guarantee of either.

New generic TLDs such as .app, .shop and .dev have appeared alongside the classic ones, and some require HTTPS by policy, so check the registry rules before choosing.

Example

In www.example.co.uk, the TLD is uk. co.uk is a public suffix under which names are registered. In shop.example.com, the TLD is com.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming every TLD works the same for renewal price, privacy and transfer rules.
  • Registering lookalike TLDs without redirecting them to the main site.
  • Believing a particular TLD gives better search rankings by itself.

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