The .lat domain zone is a top-level domain (TLD) that serves as a digital space primarily for the Latin American and Latino communities worldwide. It was designed to provide a unique online identity for individuals, organizations, and businesses that identify with Latin American culture or heritage.
The .lat domain was officially launched on July 16, 2018, as part of an initiative to promote the visibility and representation of Latino culture on the internet. The initiative was spearheaded by the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC), which recognized the need for a dedicated space for the Latino community in the digital landscape.
The .lat domain is currently managed by the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC). LACNIC is responsible for the administration of IP addresses and domain names in the Latin American and Caribbean region. The organization operates under the oversight of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which is the global authority for domain name system management.
Registration for .lat domains is open to anyone who identifies with the Latino community, including individuals, businesses, and organizations. There are no specific citizenship or location restrictions, making it accessible to a global audience. The registration process involves selecting a desired domain name, checking its availability, and completing the registration through an accredited registrar.
As with many new domain extensions, the .lat domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attempts. However, LACNIC has implemented several security measures to mitigate these risks. These include DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) to protect against DNS spoofing and a complaint-based domain suspension policy to address reported abuses.
The .lat domain has seen a steady increase in the number of registered domains since its launch. As of October 2023, there are over 10,000 registered .lat domains, reflecting a growing interest in this TLD among the Latino community. The cost of registration typically ranges from $15 to $30 per year, with renewal fees being similar. Additionally, premium domains may be available at higher prices, depending on their desirability and market demand.