gTLDs

Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) are a category of top-level domains in the Domain Name System (DNS) intended for broad, non-country-specific use. They appear to the right of the final dot in domain names, such as example.com, where com is a gTLD. They are distinct from country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) like .uk or .de, which denote specific countries or territories.

Management and policy: gTLDs are managed by registry operators under contract with ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. Registrations are offered through accredited registrars. ICANN sets broad policy, coordinates root-zone management, and maintains dispute-resolution mechanisms such as the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP).

Types and program: Some gTLDs are open to anyone (open gTLDs), while others are restricted to particular communities or industries (sponsored or restricted gTLDs). The original gTLDs included widely used ones such as .com, .net, and .org. In 2012 ICANN launched a program to expand the gTLD space, leading to thousands of new gTLDs such as .app, .shop, .blog, .online, and many geographic or community-specific strings. This expansion introduced both open and restricted options and an increased role for trademark and brand protection.

Registration and technical features: Individual gTLD registries determine eligibility, pricing, and technical requirements for domain names under their string. Registrations are typically handled through registrars; most gTLDs support DNSSEC and allow internationalized domain names (IDNs) in non-Latin scripts, depending on policy and technical readiness.

Impact and usage: The expansion aimed to increase branding flexibility, relevance, and competition among registries and registrants, though it also required safeguards against abuse, phishing, and cybersquatting. Examples include widely used commercial domains and niche or regional strings spanning various industries and languages.