ccTLDs

ccTLDs, or country code top-level domains, are two-letter domain suffixes assigned to countries and dependent territories. They correspond to ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 codes and form part of the Domain Name System root. Each code is delegated to a local registry responsible for policy and operation of the zone, while IANA coordinates root zone management on a global level.

Registrations are typically handled through accredited registrars. Policies and eligibility vary by country: many ccTLDs are open to anyone, while others require local presence, citizenship, or affiliation with the country. Examples of widely open ccTLD registrations include .de (Germany) and .ca (Canada); examples of more restricted arrangements exist in some jurisdictions.

Usage: ccTLDs primarily serve as identifiers of a country or territory on the internet, supporting local businesses and institutions. They are also used for branding, content targeting, or as clever marketing choices. Some ccTLDs have gained global popularity beyond their geographic scope, such as .io (British Indian Ocean Territory) and .tv (Tuvalu).

Structure: Some ccTLDs permit registrations directly under the code (for example .de, .fr, .ca), while others rely on second-level domains such as .co.uk or .com.au. Registries may offer IDN (internationalized domain name) variants in local scripts.

Administration: The IANA maintains the root, while individual registries set rules and manage zone files. ccTLDs differ from gTLDs in governance, purpose, and eligibility. They continue to reflect a balance between national policy and global internet infrastructure.