The .cn domain is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the People's Republic of China. It is primarily intended for entities associated with China, including businesses, organizations, and individuals. The .cn domain serves as a digital identity for Chinese entities on the internet, promoting local presence and enhancing visibility in the global online landscape.
The .cn domain was officially introduced in 1990, during a period when the internet was beginning to expand globally. The initiative to create the .cn domain was led by the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC), which was established to manage internet resources in China. The introduction of .cn marked a significant step in China's engagement with the internet, allowing for a more localized approach to domain registration and internet governance.
Today, the .cn domain is managed by the China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC). CNNIC is responsible for the registration and administration of .cn domains, ensuring compliance with national regulations and policies. The domain is also subject to oversight by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) of the People's Republic of China, which plays a crucial role in regulating internet activities within the country.
Registration of .cn domains is open to both domestic and foreign entities. However, there are specific requirements and restrictions:
The procedure for obtaining a .cn domain typically involves selecting a domain registrar accredited by CNNIC, submitting the required documentation, and paying the registration fees. The registration process usually takes a few days, depending on the completeness of the submitted information.
The .cn domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing for the use of Chinese characters and other non-Latin scripts. The technical specifications for .cn domains include:
The .cn domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attacks. However, CNNIC has implemented several measures to enhance security:
These measures aim to maintain the integrity of the .cn domain and protect users from malicious activities.
The .cn domain has seen significant growth in registered domains over the years. As of October 2023, there are over 20 million registered .cn domains, reflecting its popularity among Chinese businesses and individuals.
The cost of registering a .cn domain varies by registrar but typically ranges from $10 to $30 per year, with renewal fees being similar. Premium domains, which are often short or keyword-rich, may be priced significantly higher, depending on market demand.
The .cn domain is a vital component of China's internet infrastructure, facilitating local and international online presence for Chinese entities. With its robust management, evolving security measures, and increasing registration numbers, the .cn domain continues to play a crucial role in the digital landscape of China.