What is a TLD (domain extension)?

A TLD (top-level domain), or "extension", is the ending of a web address, the .com in example.com. It's the last part after the final dot. Choosing a TLD is part of choosing your domain, and it affects both price and perception.

The main types

Generic TLDs (.com, .net, .org) are the classics; .com is the most trusted. New TLDs (.io, .app, .dev, .xyz, .ai, .store) are modern and often category-specific. Country TLDs (.us, .de, .co, .io technically) are tied to a country but many are used globally.

How to choose

Default to .com if you can get it, it's what people type and trust. Otherwise pick a TLD that fits your project (.dev for developers, .store for shops) and check the renewal price, not just the first-year promo. Compare live prices per extension, for example .com, .io, .dev.

Does the TLD affect SEO?

Not directly, Google treats new TLDs the same as .com for ranking. What matters is the content and the site. A .com may still help with user trust and word-of-mouth.

Frequently asked questions

Is a TLD the same as a domain extension?

Yes. TLD (top-level domain) is the technical name for the extension, the ending like .com or .io.

What's the best TLD to choose?

.com is the safest and most trusted. If it's taken, choose a relevant modern TLD and check its renewal price before buying.

Do new TLDs like .xyz hurt SEO?

No. Search engines rank new TLDs the same as .com. Choose based on fit, trust, and price.