About .bw domain
The .bw domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Botswana. It has been active since 1993 and is currently administered by the Botswana Communication Regulatory Authority (BOCRA). Registrations are primarily structured at the third level beneath various categorized second-level labels. This extension operates under an accredited registrar model for public registration.
Who can register .bw domain
Registration is open to both individuals and organizations. Individuals must provide a certified copy of a legally recognized identification card (Omang) for citizens or a passport for non-citizens. Organizations, such as companies or associations, must provide a registration certificate from the Registrar of Companies of Botswana, and the contact person must be legally authorized to bind the entity.
How to register .bw domain
- Search for your desired domain name's availability under the relevant second-level category, such as .co.bw for commercial use or .me.bw for personal use, using an accredited registrar's website.
- Compare the pricing, registration term options, and any bundled services like email hosting from the list of accredited registrars authorized by the BOCRA registry.
- Complete the checkout process, which will require you to submit the necessary eligibility documentation for verification by the registrar.
- After purchase, ensure your contact details in the WHOIS record are accurate and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting or email service.
Typical uses of .bw domain
The .bw extension is predominantly used by entities connected with Botswana. Commercial businesses within the country frequently use .co.bw, while government agencies utilize .gov.bw. It is a popular choice for local companies, academic institutions (.ac.bw), and non-profit organizations (.org.bw) seeking to establish a clear geographic identity and local trust. Individuals and personal brands can also register under the .me.bw category.
Tips for registering .bw domain
- Registrations are made at the third level (e.g.,
example.co.bw), as direct second-level registrations under .bw are no longer offered.
- You must provide certified identification or company registration documents during the application process for verification.
- Domain use must comply with the registry's Acceptable Use Policy, which prohibits illegal content, phishing, trademark infringement, and other abusive activities.
- The registry maintains a list of accredited registrars through which all registrations must be processed.
Frequently asked questions about .bw domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .bw domain?
As of today, .bw domains start from $58.11/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $166.75/yr across 2 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .bw domains?
NameBeta tracks 2 registrars that support .bw domain registration, with the cheapest option at $58.11/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .bw domain?
The registry for .bw domains is BOCRA, administered by Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA).
Who can register a .bw domain?
Registration is open globally, but it requires submitting specific documentation for verification. For individuals, this is a certified ID or passport. For companies or organizations, you must provide a certified company registration certificate. The registry's terms require the listed contact person to have the legal authority to represent the registering entity.
Can I transfer a .bw domain between registrars?
Transfers of .bw domains between accredited registrars are possible, but the process is governed by the registry's policies. You typically need to unlock the domain at your current registrar and obtain an authorization code. The new registrar will initiate the transfer and may require you to re-submit eligibility documentation for verification as part of the process.
What are the different second-level categories available for registration?
The registry offers several categorized second-level domains. Common choices include .co.bw for commercial entities, .org.bw for non-profits, .ac.bw for academic institutions, and .gov.bw for government. Newer categories like .shop.bw for e-commerce, .agric.bw for agriculture, and .me.bw for personal use are also available. Your choice should align with the intended purpose of your website.
What happens if my website violates the Acceptable Use Policy?
The registry, BOCRA, enforces its Acceptable Use Policy. If your domain is used for prohibited activities such as phishing, distributing malware, hosting illegal content, or trademark infringement, the registry can take action. This may involve suspension or cancellation of the domain name registration after following their internal dispute and compliance procedures.
Are there any restrictions on the domain name itself?
Yes, you cannot register a domain name that is identical or confusingly similar to a personal name, company name, or trademark in which a third party has uncontested rights, if the use would deceive or confuse others. This policy is designed to prevent cybersquatting and passing off, and complaints can be filed under the registry's terms and conditions.
