About .cd domain
.cd is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is operated by the Société Congolaise des Postes et Télécommunications (SCPT). The extension was launched in 1997, replacing the former .zr ccTLD for Zaire. It is an active, unrestricted ccTLD where registrations are permitted directly at the second level.
Who can register .cd domain
Registration for .cd domains is open to anyone globally, with no requirement to have a registered company or a local presence. There are no geographic restrictions for registrants. However, certain second-level names like .com.cd, .net.cd, and .org.cd are reserved and cannot be registered by the general public.
How to register .cd domain
- Search for your desired .cd domain name's availability using the search tool at a participating registrar or the registry's official website, hosting.cd.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from different accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period, which is typically one year or more.
- Verify your contact details via email as required and proceed to configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .cd domain
The .cd extension is commonly used by entities connected to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including local businesses, organizations, and individuals. It also sees occasional use for music-related websites, leveraging the association with "CD" as an abbreviation for compact disc. This dual appeal makes it a choice for both geographically relevant projects and creative or media ventures seeking a short, memorable domain.
Tips for registering .cd domain
- Domains are typically registered for a minimum term of one year, with renewal required annually to maintain ownership.
- WHOIS privacy services may be available through certain registrars to protect registrant contact information from public display.
- The registry operates under the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) for resolving trademark disputes over domain names.
- Always ensure your registrant contact information is accurate and kept up-to-date to comply with registry policies and avoid administrative issues.
Frequently asked questions about .cd domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .cd domain?
As of today, .cd domains start from $55.79/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $149.92/yr across 3 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .cd domains?
NameBeta tracks 3 registrars that support .cd domain registration, with the cheapest option at $55.79/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .cd domain?
The registry for .cd domains is Office Congolais des Postes et Télécommunications - OCPT.
Who can register a .cd domain?
While open globally, registrants must provide valid and verifiable contact information during the registration process. There is no requirement to submit business documentation or prove a local address. The primary restriction is that reserved second-level domains like .org.cd are not available for public registration.
Can I transfer a .cd domain between registrars?
Transferring a .cd domain to a new registrar follows standard procedures, requiring an authorization code from the current registrar and an unlocked domain status. The process is initiated at the gaining registrar and typically completes within a few days, provided the domain is not within a transfer lock period following a recent registration or previous transfer.
What happens if I don't renew my .cd domain on time?
If a .cd domain expires, it typically enters a grace period where the original registrant can still renew it at the standard rate. After this grace period, the domain may enter a redemption phase where recovery is possible but often involves an additional fee. Ultimately, unredeemed domains are deleted and returned to the pool of available names for registration.
Are there any content restrictions for .cd websites?
The .cd registry does not enforce specific content policies for websites using the extension. However, all domain registrations are subject to applicable international and local laws, as well as ICANN policies like the UDRP for trademark disputes. Registrants are responsible for ensuring their site content complies with relevant regulations.
Can I register a premium .cd domain name?
The registry or its partner registrars may classify certain .cd domain names as "premium," meaning they are priced higher than standard registrations due to their perceived value, brevity, or keyword relevance. Availability and pricing for such names are set by the registry and can vary significantly between different registrars.
