The .club domain zone is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) that was created to serve as a virtual space for clubs, organizations, and communities of all types. It is designed to provide a dedicated online presence for various groups, ranging from hobby clubs and sports teams to professional organizations and social networks.
The .club domain was launched on May 7, 2014, as part of the expansion of the domain name system, which aimed to increase the number of available gTLDs. The initiative was driven by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) as part of its efforts to enhance competition and innovation in the domain registration market. The .club domain was developed by the company .CLUB Domains, LLC, which sought to create a space for clubs and communities to establish their online identities.
The .club domain is currently managed by .CLUB Domains, LLC, which oversees the registration and administration of the domain. The management of the .club domain is subject to oversight by ICANN, which is responsible for the global coordination of the domain name system. Additionally, .CLUB Domains, LLC adheres to various policies and regulations set forth by ICANN to ensure compliance and security within the domain space.
Anyone can register a .club domain, regardless of their citizenship or location. There are no specific restrictions on the type of applicant, making it accessible to individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide. The registration process typically involves the following steps:
The .club domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing users to register domain names in non-Latin scripts. The following technical parameters apply to .club domains:
Like many gTLDs, the .club domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including instances of spam and phishing. However, .CLUB Domains, LLC has implemented various security measures to mitigate these risks. These include:
The .club domain has seen significant growth since its launch. As of October 2023, there are over 1.5 million registered .club domains, reflecting its popularity among various user groups. The cost of registering a .club domain typically ranges from $10 to $30 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains within the .club space can command higher prices, often due to their desirability or keyword relevance.
The .club domain zone serves as a versatile platform for clubs and communities to establish their online presence. With a straightforward registration process, robust security measures, and a growing user base, it continues to be a popular choice for organizations and individuals looking to connect and engage with their audiences.