About .az domain
.az is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Azerbaijan. It is operated by IntraNS (Intra Network Systems) and was first introduced in August 1993. The registry provides registration services through accredited local and foreign registrars. The TLD has specific registration rules and a defined "Stop-list" managed by the National Administrator to enforce content and naming policies.
Who can register .az domain
Registration for .az domains is open to everyone globally, with no specific citizenship or residency requirements. However, registrants must adhere to the registry's content policies, which prohibit certain words and expressions. There are restrictions on using geographical names, surnames of prominent personalities, and terms related to Azerbaijani state bodies without proper consent or documentation. Verification may be required for specific categories of names.
How to register .az domain
- Search for your desired .az domain name's availability through an accredited registrar's website, checking both the second level (e.g.,
example.az) and available third levels like .com.az or .org.az. - Compare pricing, registration terms (minimum one year), and additional services like WHOIS privacy from different accredited registrars before selecting one to proceed with.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact details as required by the registry's policies for validation.
- After payment, verify your contact information via email if required and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, through your registrar's control panel to point the domain to your hosting.
Typical uses of .az domain
The .az extension is most commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals with a connection to Azerbaijan, serving as a clear geographic identifier for local websites. It is popular within the country for commercial ventures, educational institutions, and government services, often utilizing second-level domains like .com.az or .org.az. Entities outside Azerbaijan, such as those in Arizona or the Azores, sometimes register .az domains for branding purposes that align with the "AZ" abbreviation, though this is a secondary use case.
Tips for registering .az domain
- The minimum registration term is one year, and domains must consist of 3 to 63 characters, using only Latin letters, digits, and hyphens (which cannot be at the start, end, or consecutive).
- Registrations involving certain reserved names, like geographical features or names of prominent personalities from Azerbaijan, require explicit consent from relevant persons or authorities.
- The registry maintains a "Stop-list" of prohibited terms; registrars must reject or cancel domains containing words deemed contrary to social order, morals, or that violate trademark rights.
- WHOIS privacy services may be available through your chosen accredited registrar, but you should confirm this during the comparison and purchase process.