The .me domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) that was originally designated for Montenegro. However, it has evolved into a popular choice for personal branding, websites, and various online services. The .me domain is often used by individuals and businesses looking to create a more personalized web presence.
The .me domain was introduced on March 24, 2007, following Montenegro's independence from Serbia in 2006. The domain was established to provide a unique online identity for the newly independent nation. The initiative for the .me domain was led by the government of Montenegro, with the goal of promoting the country’s digital presence.
Today, the .me domain is managed by the ME-net, a company based in Montenegro. The administration of the .me domain is overseen by the national regulatory authority, the Agency for Electronic Communications and Postal Services of Montenegro (EKIP). This agency ensures compliance with international standards and regulations for domain management.
Anyone can register a .me domain, making it an accessible option for individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide. There are no specific restrictions based on citizenship or location, allowing global participation in the registration process.
The procedure for obtaining a .me domain is straightforward:
The .me domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing users to register domain names in various languages and scripts. The technical specifications for .me domains include:
The .me domain utilizes standard DNS protocols, and there are no unique features specific to its name servers beyond those typical for ccTLDs.
As with many domain zones, the .me domain has faced issues related to spam and phishing. However, the registry has implemented various security measures to mitigate these risks. The .me domain supports DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC), which adds an extra layer of security to the domain name system, helping to prevent attacks such as cache poisoning.
Additionally, there are mechanisms in place for domain name dispute resolution, allowing for the blocking of domains based on complaints regarding abusive practices.
The .me domain has seen significant growth in registrations since its launch. As of October 2023, there are over 800,000 registered .me domains, reflecting its popularity among users seeking a personal touch in their web addresses.
The cost of registering a .me domain typically ranges from $10 to $30 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains, which are often shorter or more memorable, may be available at a higher price point, sometimes exceeding several thousand dollars.
The .me domain has successfully transitioned from a national ccTLD to a global platform for personal branding and online identity. With its flexible registration policies, strong security measures, and growing popularity, it remains an attractive option for individuals and businesses alike.