Key Highlights
- Understand what is .co domain and how it compares to .com.
- Discover why the .co extension appeals to startups, tech companies, and global brands.
- Learn the benefits of .co websites, from availability to SEO and online visibility.
- Recognize the drawbacks of .co domain names, including confusion with .com.
- Explore how to register your perfect domain with accredited registrars like Bluehost.
Are you considering buying a .co domain name extension for your website but need help deciding if it’s a good top-level domain (TLD) fit for your needs? If you’ve been asking yourself what is .co domain or what is a .co domain, this guide will explain everything. The .co extension has gained popularity and is now used by startups, entrepreneurs and even .co websites run by global brands.
It was initially assigned to Colombia as their country specific extension. Later, their government opened it to the world as an alternative to .com, making it one of the more popular domain extensions today.
But is .co the right web address for your site? Should I buy a .co domain name or would a more traditional domain extension like .com or .net better suit your target audience? This comprehensive guide will dive deep into the .co domain’s history, benefits, drawbacks and how it compares to other popular domain extensions. Let’s unravel whether the .co TLD perfectly matches your online presence.
Brief history of the .co domain
Initially, .co domain name was originally designated as a country specific extension and served as the official country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Colombia. For years, it was reserved exclusively for entities within the country. However, recognizing its potential appeal, the Colombian government decided to liberalize the registration process in the early 2000s, opening it up to the global market and international audience.
In 2009, management of the .co TLD was handed over to a private entity called .CO Internet S.A.S., an accredited registrar. This marked a pivotal shift, transforming .co into a global alternative to the highly coveted .com and allowing more domains registered under the extension.
Since then, the .co domain name has been recognized worldwide and has become a favorite among startups, entrepreneurs and major brands who want to establish a modern, forward-thinking image with one of the most popular domain extensions.
Are .co domains legitimate and safe?
The .co domain name is both legitimate and widely accepted as a top-level domain (TLD). While its roots are in Colombia as a country specific extension, the .co extension is now recognized and used by businesses worldwide. It is governed by the same standards and practices as other popular domain extensions, ensuring that those who register it must go through reputable domain registrars and accredited registrars.
Just like any other domain extension, .co is subject to routine registration processes and renewals. To maintain ownership, domain holders must ensure timely renewals through a trusted domain registrar.
Failing to renew could lead to losing ownership, but as long as it’s regularly renewed, a .co domain is as secure as a .com or .net. Many .co websites, like AngelList.co and Vine.co, prove that .co domain names are trusted and effective. It is governed by the same standards as other popular domain extensions and those who register must go through accredited registrars.
For business owners, ensuring their website is secure goes beyond the domain extension they choose. It’s essential to implement HTTPS, SSL certificates and regular monitoring to maintain trust with their target audience and improve visibility in search engines.
.co vs .com domains
Choosing between a .co domain name and a .com domain can be tricky. The .com extension is undeniably the most recognized and trusted among all popular domain extensions. It’s often associated with major brands, credibility and established businesses, making it the default choice for many. Users also tend to type “.com” instinctively when searching for a web address, which explains its dominance.
On the other hand, the .co TLD offers a fresh and modern alternative. Agencies, startups and entrepreneurs often see it as better suited for their target audience.
Many also secure exact match domains in .co, which can provide a strong branding edge and potential search engine benefits.
Additionally, .co domains are shorter and easier to remember, giving companies a unique edge in a crowded digital space. This availability makes it appealing for new businesses that struggle to find desirable names with other domain extensions.
However, one potential drawback is confusion. Since .com is so deeply ingrained, some users may mistakenly type your URL as .com instead of .co, which could lead to lost traffic.
For this reason, businesses must decide whether the registration process of securing both versions is worthwhile to maintain ownership and protect their brand.
.co and third-level domain extensions
Third-level domain extensions refer to the portion of a domain name that follows the second level domain. For instance, in the domain “blog.org.co,” the third-level extension is “co.”
It’s also worth mentioning that the terms “extension” and top-level domain (TLD) are often used as synonyms. In this case, .co TLD serves as both the top-level and part of third-level domain extensions.
Some possible third-level domain combinations using .co include
- co.co
- org.co
- info.co
- edu.co
- gov.co
Although the .co domain name is widely used as a global option for major brands and startups, it is typically employed by local organizations and entities when it appears as part of a third-level domain. This demonstrates how versatile the .co TLD can be for both a target audience in Colombia and an international audience.
If you also want to secure a domain. Search and register your desired domain with Bluehost today.
Key benefits of a .co domain name
The .co domain name is a powerful choice for businesses looking to create a strong online presence. It’s short, memorable and has become one of the most popular domain extensions over the years. Below are the main benefits of purchasing a .co TLD:
- Branding: A .co domain helps your brand stand out. Many major brands use it to project an innovative, forward-thinking image. Securing exact match domains can also improve how your domain reflects your identity.
- Global appeal: With recognition across borders, the .co TLD works for a diverse international audience. It’s not tied to one region, unlike many country specific extensions, making it suitable for global businesses.
- SEO benefits: Search engines treat .co the same as other domain extensions. Combined with relevant keywords in your domain name, you may gain visibility in search engine rankings.
- Availability: Since many domains registered under .com are taken, .co offers more opportunities. This makes the domain registration process simpler and often a more straightforward process for startups to secure the right web address.
.co is not just a domain extension. Purchasing this TLD can be a smart investment for any domain owner looking to create a strong online presence. The .co domain TLD is short, memorable, has global recognition and has SEO benefits.
SEO benefits of the .co domain
From an SEO perspective, the .co domain name can be just as beneficial as other popular domain extensions. Search engines like Google treat .co TLDs the same way they treat .com, .net and other generic domain extensions. In fact, a well-chosen .co TLD can offer several SEO advantages.
- Brandable and memorable: A short, memorable web address can attract direct traffic and increase the likelihood of users linking to your site. For example, Angel.co has become a recognizable brand in its own right.
- Keyword availability: With more domains registered in the .co space, you have a better chance of securing exact match domains. This can provide a slight SEO boost, especially when the domain name closely matches your products or services.
- Geotargeting flexibility: Unlike country specific extensions such as .uk or .jp, which are tied to a specific region, .co does not restrict your site. This flexibility makes it appealing for businesses targeting an international audience.
- Backlink opportunities: Because .co is one of the popular domain extensions among startups and major brands, websites with this extension often attract media and blogger attention. It increases the likelihood of earning quality backlinks—one of the most valuable factors in search engine rankings.
Also read: WordPress SEO Made Simple
Drawbacks of a .co domain
There are six main drawbacks to using a .co domain name extension.
1. Potential for confusion with .com
One of the main drawbacks of using the .co TLD is the potential for confusion among users who are accustomed to seeing popular domain extensions like .com. Users who may mistakenly assume that a website’s web address ends in .com may have trouble finding the site they’re looking for. In some cases, this can even result in lost business for companies and major brands that use .co.
2. Not well-known
Another potential drawback of a site using a .co TLD is that it may not be as well-known or recognized as .com, which could make it harder for established businesses to build trust with their target audience. However, this can be mitigated by strong branding and a clear registration process through a reputable domain registrar.
3. Lack of prestige
Another issue is that some people may perceive .co TLDs as less prestigious than .com domain extensions since .com has been the default top-level domain for many years. Opting for a .co domain in certain industries might be seen as a bad idea for those who prioritize traditional credibility. This may make it harder for businesses to attract high-quality employees, investors or partners, who may view a .co TLD as a sign that the person or company is not as established or successful as those with a .com domain.
4. Potential for confusion with other ccTLDs
Lastly, there is the potential for confusion with other country code tld (ccTLDs) that use .co, such as .co.uk (United Kingdom) or .co.jp (Japan). This may make it difficult for users to determine where a domain name is based, which could be a concern for businesses targeting a specific international audience.
5. Resale value
For those considering purchasing a TLD with the intent to resell it, .co domain extensions may not hold the same resale value as premium .com domains. The resale market for .co is still emerging, so its long-term value remains uncertain.
6. Association with Colombia
Even though .co has evolved into a global TLD, some people still associate it with Colombia. This could lead to potential confusion, especially for businesses targeting a specific geographic audience.
Who should consider a .co TLD?
A .co domain is an excellent option for various groups, including:
- Startups: The .co TLD has become synonymous with innovation and entrepreneurship. This makes it an attractive choice for new businesses seeking a modern, fresh image and a memorable web address.
- Agencies: Marketing and creative agencies can benefit from the unique branding opportunities that a .co TLD provides, offering a sleek online presence that resonates with their target audience.
- App developers: App developers seeking to establish a strong digital identity will find .co appealing due to the availability of exact match domains and its association with tech-savvy major brands.
- Global businesses: If your business targets an international audience, the .co domain name offers recognition without being tied to one region, unlike many country specific extensions.
- Personal brands: Individuals looking to create a personal portfolio or blog may also find value in the .co TLD due to its availability, memorability and straightforward registration process.
That being said, if you’re in a competitive industry and trust and credibility are critical to your brand, you may want to opt for a .com domain. It remains one of the most trusted and popular domain extensions for established businesses.
How to buy a .co domain name with Bluehost
Buying a .co domain name is as simple as purchasing any other domain extension. Bluehost is a reputable domain registrar that makes the registration process a straightforward process:
Visit the website: Go to the Bluehost domains page.
Check availability: Enter your desired domain name (related to your business) in the registrar’s search tool, choose the .co TLD and click Continue.
Bluehost also offers an AI tool that can generate exact match domains and creative ideas by analyzing your target audience and brand keywords.
Register: If your domain is available, it will be added to your cart. Domain Privacy + Protection will also be included to help you maintain ownership, but you can remove it if needed. Click Proceed.
Plan add-ons: If you need a web hosting plan or Google Workspace email, you can add them to your cart at this point. Otherwise, click on Continue to Cart.
Checkout and payment details: Provide your personal contact information and billing information. Then, do a final check and click on Submit Payment.
Configure DNS settings: Once payment is complete, your DNS settings will be configured automatically if you’re using Bluehost hosting. Otherwise, you can update them manually with your domain registrar.
Verify registration: After registering your domain, you’ll receive a confirmation email with important details like your registration dates and renewal reminders. Keeping this information safe helps you maintain ownership of your web address.
Also read: How to register a domain name
Final thoughts
Whether or not you choose a .co domain name depends on your goals, target audience and branding needs. Many people ask, is .co a good domain compared to .com. The answer depends on your industry and reputation needs.
If you’re still asking what is .co domain, think of it as a modern alternative to .com. The .co extension is short, global and widely trusted. Many successful .co websites and .co domain names prove its value. For startups, entrepreneurs and tech companies, it could be the perfect domain to grow your brand.
So, should you buy a .co domain? If you’re ready to embrace the future of branding and want a short, impactful and available domain for your business name, the answer is a resounding yes.
FAQs
A .co domain is a top-level domain (TLD) extension that was originally assigned to Colombia. But it is now used by organizations worldwide and global brands. It is widely recognized as a modern option for startups, tech companies and individuals looking for a strong domain that can reach a global audience.
Yes, the .co TLD is a legitimate extension, recognized and accepted by ICANN. It is offered through accredited registrars and trusted domain registration services. Businesses, startups and tech companies worldwide use it to establish a credible online presence. With proper renewal and management, it provides the same security and stability as other popular domain extensions.
The .co domain has become popular due to its resemblance to .com, its availability for short business name domains and its use by global brands and tech companies. It is widely recognized as modern and versatile, making it appealing to a global audience.
Benefits of registering a .co domain name include availability for short and memorable domain names, strong appeal for companies and individuals and potential SEO advantages. With the right domain registrar, it can improve online visibility, boost search ranking and drive organic traffic by appearing in search results.
The cons of a .co TLD include possible confusion with .com, limited availability of desirable names and the perception of being less secure than other popular domain extensions. Some potential customers may see it as less established, but using accredited domain registration services and building a strong brand can help overcome this.
One of the best things about .co is that it’s open to anyone, anywhere. Whether you’re an individual, business or organization, there are no restrictions based on your location. You don’t have to be in Colombia or have specific credentials to register a .co domain name. With accredited registrars and modern domain registration services, the process is simple, making .co accessible to organizations worldwide.
No, .co domains have no major restrictions. You can use the .co TLD for any business name, blog, store or portfolio. Domain registration services from accredited registrars make the registration process a straightforward process. This helps startups, entrepreneurs and tech companies secure a strong domain with ease.
The price of a .co domain name depends on the domain registrar you choose. Most accredited registrars offer competitive rates. You may also add extras like privacy or SSL. Overall, it’s affordable compared to other popular domain extensions.
Most registrars offer a one-year domain registration period. Some allow multi-year options. With accredited registrars, the registration process is easy. Longer terms can help you maintain ownership of your business name online.
Yes! If you ever feel the need to change registrars, you can transfer your .co domain. The process is straightforward and involves unlocking your domain, obtaining an authorization code from your current registrar and initiating the transfer with your new registrar.
Yes, most registrars provide a grace period after expiration, during which you can renew your domain without losing ownership. However, once that grace period is over, the domain may become available for others to register. Always keep an eye on your renewal dates to avoid any unnecessary drama.
After purchase, you’ll need to set up DNS settings. Most accredited registrars make this a straightforward process. With Bluehost, you can easily configure DNS settings and launch your site.
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