The .name domain extension stands as a unique top-level domain (TLD) specifically designed for individuals to establish their personal online presence. Unlike traditional domain extensions, .name domains serve as digital identifiers for personal names, allowing you to create a personalized web space that truly represents you.
Technical Requirements
Your .name domain must adhere to specific technical constraints:
- Characters allowed: letters (a-z), numbers (1-9), dots (.), and hyphens (-)
- Minimum length: 3 characters for second-level domains (example.name)
- Maximum length: 63 characters (excluding the .name extension)
- Hyphen usage: Cannot be placed at the beginning of the domain
Domain Structure Options
.name domains offer two registration levels:
Second-level domains:
- Format: lastname.name
- Example: smith.name
Third-level domains:
- Format: firstname.lastname.name
- Example: john.smith.name
Registration Restrictions
The .name registry maintains several important restrictions:
- Common surnames are often reserved and blocked from registration
- Third-level domain registration blocks the corresponding second-level domain
- A 5-day waiting period applies before updating registrant contact details
- Names must represent your actual name or a name you’re commonly known by
Name Protection
The registry implements protective measures to maintain the integrity of personal names:
- Reserved names list includes common surnames
- Protection against cybersquatting
- Trademark considerations for personal names
Comparison with Other Personal TLDs
| TLD | Primary Use | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| .name | Personal names | Individuals |
| .me | Personal branding | Professionals |
| .id | Personal identity | General public |
Technical Infrastructure
The .name domain operates within the standard Domain Name System (DNS) framework, supporting:
- Standard DNS records
- Email services
- Web hosting
- Domain forwarding
- SSL certificate compatibility
Best Practices for Usage
To maximize your .name domain:
- Use it for personal websites
- Create professional email addresses
- Build personal portfolios
- Establish family websites
- Create personal blogs
Looking Forward
The .name domain continues to evolve as a specialized space for personal identity online. While not as widely used as .com or other popular TLDs, it maintains its unique position as a dedicated namespace for individual identity representation.
The Final Word
Your .name domain serves as your authentic digital signature, offering a distinctive way to establish your personal presence online. Whether you’re creating a professional portfolio, personal blog, or family website, this TLD provides the perfect foundation for your individual digital identity.