About .design domain
.design is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated to the DNS Root Zone in January 2015. The registry was originally operated by Top Level Design before being acquired by GoDaddy Registry in April 2021. It entered General Availability for the public on May 12, 2015, following a sunrise period and an Early Access Phase. The TLD operates as a standard, unrestricted gTLD under ICANN's new gTLD program.
Who can register .design domain
Registration for a .design domain is open to anyone globally, with no eligibility restrictions. There are no requirements to prove affiliation with the design industry or to provide specific documentation. Both individuals and organizations, regardless of location or purpose, can register these domains. This makes it an accessible product for anyone seeking a domain name with this particular suffix.
How to register .design domain
- Search for your desired .design domain name on a domain registrar's website to check its availability and see if it is offered as a standard or premium name.
- Compare the registration and renewal prices from different accredited registrars, noting that premium domain names may have higher initial and recurring costs.
- Complete the checkout process, which typically includes selecting a registration term (often 1-10 years) and adding services like WHOIS privacy protection if desired.
- After purchase, verify your contact details to comply with ICANN requirements and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .design domain
The .design extension is commonly used by professionals and businesses within the creative industry to establish a clear, topical online identity. It is popular among graphic designers, web designers, interior designers, and design studios for portfolio sites, agency homepages, and project showcases. These users often choose .design over more generic extensions to immediately communicate their field of expertise and to secure a memorable, relevant web address that aligns with their brand. The TLD also sees use by companies in related sectors like fashion, architecture, and product design.
Tips for registering .design domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with multi-year registration options available up to ten years.
- Premium .design domain names are available and are priced higher than standard registrations, often with elevated renewal fees as well.
- WHOIS privacy protection services are generally offered by registrars for this TLD, allowing you to shield your personal contact information from public view.
- The TLD is subject to standard ICANN transfer policies, meaning domains can usually be transferred between registrars 60 days after registration or a previous transfer.
- Disputes over domain names are governed by the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP).
Frequently asked questions about .design domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .design domain?
As of today, .design domains start from $3.30/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $127.25/yr across 35 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .design domains?
NameBeta tracks 35 registrars that support .design domain registration, with the cheapest option at $3.30/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .design domain?
The registry for .design domains is GoDaddy Registry, administered by Registry Services, LLC.
Who can register a .design domain?
Anyone can register a .design domain without needing to verify their profession or purpose. The registry does not impose geographic, organizational, or trademark-based restrictions on registrants. This open policy applies to individuals, freelancers, companies, and organizations worldwide, making it a straightforward purchase through any ICANN-accredited registrar.
Can I transfer a .design domain between registrars?
Transferring a .design domain follows standard ICANN procedures. You must initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar, which will require the domain's authorization code (EPP code) and confirmation from the registered name holder. Transfers are typically prohibited for 60 days following initial registration or a previous transfer. Ensure your domain is unlocked and that WHOIS privacy is temporarily disabled to receive the necessary transfer confirmation emails.
Are there any content requirements for a .design website?
No, there are no specific content requirements or usage restrictions enforced by the .design registry. While the TLD is marketed toward the design community, registrants are not obligated to host design-related content on their websites. You have full control over the content, just as with any other unrestricted gTLD, provided it complies with applicable laws and ICANN policies.
What happens during the sunrise period for a new TLD like .design?
A sunrise period is a phase before general availability when trademark owners can register domain names that match their validated trademarks. For .design, this period occurred from February to April 2015. Trademark holders submitted their claims through the Trademark Clearinghouse to secure relevant names and protect their intellectual property before the TLD opened to the public.
How are disputes over .design domain names handled?
Disputes are resolved using the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which is standard for gTLDs. To succeed in a UDRP complaint, a trademark owner must prove the domain was registered and is being used in bad faith. The .design registry may also participate in other rights protection mechanisms like the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system for clear-cut cases of trademark infringement.
Can I register a .design domain for a long-term project?
Yes, you can register a .design domain for up to ten years in advance, which is the maximum term allowed under ICANN policy for most gTLDs. This is ideal for securing a domain for a long-term project or brand. Be sure to monitor renewal notices from your registrar as the expiration date approaches to avoid losing the domain.
