About .cm domain
.cm is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Cameroon. It is managed by the Agence Nationale des Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication (ANTIC), which took over operational control following a formal transfer process completed in 2024. The TLD was initially delegated in 1995 and operates under a policy framework established by Cameroonian law. It is notable for its history of wildcard DNS configurations and its commercial availability through accredited registrars.
Who can register .cm domain
Registration for .cm domains is open to any applicant, whether based in Cameroon or internationally, with no requirement for local presence. However, certain second-level domains like .gov.cm, .edu.cm, and .pol.cm are restricted to eligible government, educational, or political entities, which must provide verification. All registrants, regardless of location, are subject to Cameroonian law regarding website content and intellectual property rights.
How to register .cm domain
- Search for your desired .cm domain name using an accredited registrar's search tool to check its availability, noting that many short or common names may already be registered or classified as premium.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from different registrars, as fees and policies can vary significantly between providers.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate contact information which will be subject to verification, and select your desired registration period, which typically starts at one year.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email if required and promptly configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting or email service.
Typical uses of .cm domain
The .cm extension is commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals connected to Cameroon, serving as their primary national online identifier. It also sees significant global registration for domain hacks and brand-protective typosquatting due to its visual similarity to the popular .com extension. Some registrants leverage this for memorable short URLs or to capture typing errors, while others within Cameroon utilize the structured second-level domains like .gov.cm or .edu.cm for official purposes.
Tips for registering .cm domain
- Domains can be registered for a minimum of one year, with renewal terms set by individual registrars; always confirm the renewal price, as it may differ from the promotional registration fee.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available for .cm domains through most commercial registrars, but their inclusion and cost should be verified during the checkout process.
- The registry maintains a list of reserved names, including terms related to Cameroon's government, heritage, and public institutions, which cannot be registered by the general public.
- Be aware of the TLD's historical association with security risks and typosquatting; conduct due diligence to ensure your desired domain does not infringe on existing trademarks or mimic well-known .com addresses.
Frequently asked questions about .cm domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .cm domain?
As of today, .cm domains start from $83.68/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $182.45/yr across 15 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .cm domains?
NameBeta tracks 15 registrars that support .cm domain registration, with the cheapest option at $83.68/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .cm domain?
The registry for .cm domains is ANTIC, administered by Agence Nationale des Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication (ANTIC).
Who can register a .cm domain?
While open globally, applicants for restricted second-level domains like .gov.cm or .edu.cm must provide documentation proving their status as a legitimate government body, educational institution, or political party as defined by Cameroonian regulations. International registrants should be aware that by registering a .cm domain, they agree to abide by Cameroonian law concerning online content and intellectual property, even if they are not physically located in the country.
Can I transfer a .cm domain between registrars?
Transferring a .cm domain between registrars follows a standard process initiated by obtaining an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar. You must ensure the domain is unlocked and that WHOIS privacy is disabled to facilitate the transfer request. The process can take several days to complete, and it's advisable to confirm that the domain has been registered for at least 60 days and is not within a redemption grace period before initiating a transfer.
Are there any specific naming rules or prohibited terms for .cm domains?
Yes, the registry prohibits domain names that are contrary to public order, morality, or that express racial or ethnic hatred. Specific terms related to Cameroon's state institutions, historical heritage, international organizations, and regional names are reserved and cannot be registered by the general public. Names must consist of letters, numbers, or hyphens, cannot begin or end with a hyphen, and accented characters are not allowed.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .cm domains?
.cm domains are subject to the registry's own dispute management policy for resolving conflicts over domain ownership. While the global Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) may also be used by trademark holders, the local policy provides a specific framework for challenges based on Cameroonian law and registry regulations. It is important for registrants to ensure their domain choice does not infringe on third-party rights to avoid costly disputes.
What should I know about premium .cm domain names?
The .cm registry and its partner registrars often classify short, generic, or commercially valuable domains as "premium," which are sold at significantly higher prices, sometimes through auctions. These premium names may also have different renewal fees. Before registering, check with your registrar if your desired name is considered premium and understand its total cost of ownership, including any non-standard renewal rates.
