TLD (top-level domain)

The top-level domain is the part to the right of the last dot. There are country-code TLDs (ccTLD, e.g. .de, .at) and generic ones (gTLD, e.g. .com, .shop). Each TLD has its own registry and its own rules.

How it differs: ccTLDs are assigned to countries/regions, gTLDs are thematic/generic.

Example: in "example.de", ".de" is the TLD.

Related terms

ccTLD gTLD Registry

← Back to the glossary

Domain knowledge grounded in official sources

Registry rules and periods come from primary sources such as DENIC, nic.at or EURid — with source link and access date. Editorial review and sign-off are human, and economic affiliations are disclosed.

Editorial guidelines Transparency About the project