About .cloud domain
.cloud is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by the Italian company Aruba PEC SpA. It was delegated to the DNS root zone in June 2015 after a competitive application process during ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry's back-end services are provided by ARI Registry Services. As a product, it is an unrestricted, open domain extension available for public registration.
Who can register .cloud domain
Registration for .cloud domains is open to everyone with no eligibility restrictions. Individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide can register a .cloud domain without needing to provide any special documentation or verification. There is no requirement to be involved in or offer cloud computing services. The registration process is real-time and follows standard procedures common to most gTLDs.
How to register .cloud domain
- Search for your desired .cloud domain name using a domain registrar's search tool to check its availability. Domain names must be between 3 and 63 characters and can include letters, numbers, and hyphens (though hyphens cannot be the first or last character).
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from various accredited registrars that offer the .cloud extension.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, selecting your desired registration period, which can be for multiple years.
- After purchase, verify your contact details in the WHOIS record as required by ICANN policy and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your hosting provider or website.
Typical uses of .cloud domain
The .cloud extension is commonly adopted by technology companies, IT service providers, and startups operating in the cloud computing sector, as it directly communicates their field of expertise. It is also used by businesses offering software-as-a-service (SaaS), storage solutions, and any online platform that leverages remote infrastructure. Beyond the tech industry, it's chosen by blogs, projects, or brands that want a modern, forward-looking domain name that suggests innovation or data-centric services, providing a clear alternative to more traditional extensions.
Tips for registering .cloud domain
- There is no limit to the number of .cloud domains one person or entity can register.
- Domains can be registered for any number of years, offering flexibility for long-term brand planning.
- WHOIS privacy services are available for .cloud registrations, allowing you to shield personal contact information from the public directory.
- The registration process is real-time and does not require submitting any supporting documentation.
Frequently asked questions about .cloud domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .cloud domain?
As of today, .cloud domains start from $1.00/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $48.22/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .cloud domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .cloud domain registration, with the cheapest option at $1.00/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .cloud domain?
The registry for .cloud domains is ARUBA PEC, administered by ARUBA PEC S.p.A..
Who can register a .cloud domain?
Anyone can register a .cloud domain, as there are no geographic, organizational, or professional restrictions. You do not need to prove you are involved in cloud computing or any specific industry. The process is designed to be as straightforward as registering a .com, with no special eligibility checks or verification steps required from the registrant.
Can I transfer a .cloud domain between registrars?
Transferring a .cloud domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN transfer policy. You will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked and not within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer. The new registrar will initiate the transfer process, which requires confirmation from the domain's administrative contact email.
Are there any content or usage restrictions for .cloud domains?
No, the .cloud registry does not impose specific content or usage restrictions on domain names. While the extension is naturally attractive to the cloud computing industry, registrants are free to use their .cloud domain for any lawful purpose, including personal websites, blogs, or non-tech related businesses, without fear of audit or revocation based on content.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .cloud domains?
.cloud domains are subject to ICANN's standard Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which allows trademark holders to challenge bad-faith registrations that infringe on their rights. The registry also participated in a Sunrise period prior to general availability, allowing trademark owners to secure their marks and providing an additional layer of rights protection.
Can I register a .cloud domain name with privacy protection?
Yes, WHOIS privacy protection is available for .cloud domains through most accredited registrars. This service replaces your personal contact information in the public WHOIS database with the details of a proxy service, helping to reduce spam and protect your privacy while keeping the domain registration fully ICANN-compliant.
