The .com domain zone is one of the most recognized and widely used top-level domains (TLDs) on the internet. Originally intended for commercial entities, it has evolved to encompass a broad range of websites, including personal blogs, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions. The .com domain is particularly popular among businesses seeking to establish an online presence, making it synonymous with the commercial aspect of the internet.
The .com domain was created in 1985 as one of the first TLDs in the Domain Name System (DNS). It was established to serve commercial organizations, reflecting the growing importance of the internet for business purposes. The initiative for the .com domain came from the need to organize and categorize the rapidly expanding number of websites. The first registered .com domain was symbolics.com, registered on March 15, 1985.
Today, the .com domain is managed by Verisign, Inc., a global leader in domain name registry services. Verisign operates the authoritative registry for .com and is responsible for maintaining the database of registered domain names. The process is overseen by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which is the international body responsible for coordinating the global internet's systems of unique identifiers, including domain names.
Anyone can register a .com domain, and there are no specific restrictions based on citizenship, location, or type of applicant. The registration process typically involves the following steps:
The .com domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing for non-Latin characters in domain names. The technical specifications for .com domains include:
Despite its popularity, the .com domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attacks. To combat these issues, Verisign has implemented various security measures, including:
The .com domain remains the most registered TLD globally, with over 150 million domains registered as of October 2023. The cost of registering a .com domain typically ranges from $10 to $20 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains, which are shorter or contain popular keywords, can command significantly higher prices, sometimes reaching thousands or even millions of dollars.
The .com domain zone continues to be a cornerstone of the internet, serving a diverse range of users and organizations. Its historical significance, coupled with ongoing administrative and security measures, ensures that it remains a trusted choice for individuals and businesses alike.