About .boston domain
.boston is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated in the new gTLD program. It was delegated on November 29, 2016, and entered general availability on October 10, 2017. The registry operator is OpenRegistry, and the applicant was The Boston Globe, which manages the extension with support from the City of Boston. This TLD is a geographic extension intended to serve as an online identity for entities connected to the region.
Who can register .boston domain
Registration for .boston domain names is open to anyone worldwide, with no eligibility restrictions or nexus requirements. Individuals, businesses, and organizations do not need to prove a residence, business presence, or any specific affiliation with the city of Boston to register. This open policy was a deliberate choice by the applicant and the City to encourage broad adoption and future innovation.
How to register .boston domain
- Search for availability: Use a domain registrar's search tool to check if your desired .boston domain name is available. It's wise to search for variations, as shorter or more common names may already be registered.
- Select a registrar and plan: Compare prices, registration term lengths (often 1-10 years), and add-on services like WHOIS privacy protection or email hosting from different accredited registrars.
- Complete the purchase: Add the domain to your cart and proceed through the checkout, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by ICANN.
- Configure your domain: After purchase, access your registrar's control panel to point your .boston domain to your website hosting via DNS records like A or CNAME records.
Typical uses of .boston domain
The .boston extension is commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals with a connection to the Boston area. Local restaurants, tech startups, professional services, cultural institutions, and community groups often choose .boston to immediately signal their geographic relevance and community ties. It provides a distinct, location-specific alternative to broader extensions like .com, helping entities stand out and connect with a local audience in one of America's oldest and most innovative cities.
Tips for registering .boston domain
- There are no eligibility or "nexus" requirements to register a .boston domain; it is open to registrants globally.
- Standard registration terms (e.g., 1-10 years) apply, and domains will follow typical renewal, grace period, and redemption processes.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available through registrars, but you should confirm this feature is offered for .boston before purchasing.
- The registry does not impose specific content requirements or audit rights on .boston domain holders.