The .hu domain zone is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Hungary. It serves as a digital identifier for entities associated with Hungary, including individuals, businesses, and organizations. The primary purpose of the .hu domain is to promote a national online presence and facilitate communication within Hungary and with the international community.
The .hu domain was established in 1990, shortly after Hungary began transitioning to a market economy and embracing the internet. The initiative to create the .hu domain was led by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, which recognized the need for a national domain to support the growing internet infrastructure in the country.
Today, the .hu domain is managed by the Hungarian Internet Foundation (Magyar Internet Alapítvány), which oversees domain registrations and ensures compliance with national and international regulations. The administration of the .hu domain is also subject to oversight by the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH), which regulates telecommunications and media in Hungary.
Registration of .hu domains is open to both individuals and organizations. There are no specific restrictions based on nationality or location, allowing anyone interested in establishing a presence in Hungary to register a .hu domain. The registration process typically involves the following steps:
The .hu domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing for the use of Hungarian characters in domain names. The following technical parameters apply to .hu domains:
Like many other domain zones, the .hu domain has faced issues related to spam and phishing. However, the Hungarian Internet Foundation has implemented several security measures to combat these threats:
The .hu domain has shown steady growth in the number of registered domains. As of October 2023, there are approximately 600,000 registered .hu domains, reflecting a healthy demand for online presence in Hungary. The cost of registering a .hu domain typically ranges from €10 to €20 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains are available, often at a higher price, depending on their desirability and market demand.
The .hu domain zone plays a vital role in Hungary's digital landscape, providing a platform for individuals and organizations to establish their online identities. With a supportive administrative framework, robust security measures, and a growing number of registrations, the .hu domain continues to be a valuable asset for those looking to connect with the Hungarian market.