A country code top-level domain (ccTLD) or country specific domain name is a TLD generally used or reserved for a country. They are now gaining in popularity given that the usual extensions like .com and .net are fast being snatched up by so many websites.

Each country has its own extension. For example, Britain uses .co.uk, India uses .co.in and Germany uses .de. Country-specific domain extensions are generally targeted at a particular country. Most countries prefer their ccTLD over a TLD. It is not necessary for a website to be physically located within the country of the extension. However each country has its own set of guidelines, like a .ca (Canadian) domain extension is available only for Canadian companies, while some countries have opened up their registration for anyone. It is always advisable to research country codes before they are bought.

Benefits of Using Country Specific TLDs

• Identifies itself to a certain geographical location. For e.g. people in the USA need not have to waste their time trying to purchase a service from ‘drycleaning.co.uk.’
• Country specific domain names are given a ranking boost by local search engines (Google.co.uk, Google.cn, Google.co.in, Google.com.au).
• Increases your click-through rates, i.e. if you are targeting a U.K. audience, and your display URL in your Google Adwords account shows a .co.uk domain name, you instantly gain credibility.
• You can customize and optimize the content to suit your market. For e.g. British consumers are more conservative and careful to market messages posted on websites. (more…)