About .gap domain
.gap is a brand gTLD (generic top-level domain) that was proposed as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program by The Gap, Inc. The application was submitted in 2012, with the stated purpose of creating a trusted, hierarchical namespace for the company's digital strategy. The extension was intended to be a closed registry, operated by Gap Inc. itself to protect its online brand identity and presence.
Who can register .gap domain
Registration is intended to be strictly limited to The Gap, Inc., its subsidiaries, qualified affiliates, and approved strategic partners. The application states that the registry will not be open for public registration, at least initially. After an initial period of at least three years, the company may evaluate expanding registration to external parties, but any such expansion would be fee-based and controlled by the registry operator.
How to register .gap domain
This is a brand TLD allocated exclusively for the registry operator's own use. The Gap, Inc. applied to ICANN to operate the .gap namespace as a closed registry. Domain names within .gap are not available through commercial registrars; they are allocated internally by the brand holder for its own operations, partners, and affiliates. The delegation and management of domains is a proprietary process controlled by the company's digital strategy team.
Typical uses of .gap domain
The primary use case for the .gap extension is to serve as a secure, branded online space for The Gap, Inc. and its family of retail brands. It is intended for official corporate websites, marketing campaigns, and secure channels for online products and services related to the company's operations. The namespace aims to enhance brand protection and provide a consolidated platform for the retailer's digital presence, distinguishing its official channels from the broader internet.
Tips for registering .gap domain
- The registry is a closed, brand-only space, meaning domains are not available for public registration through standard registrars.
- Initial registration and use were planned to be limited to Gap Inc., its subsidiaries, affiliates, and partners for at least the first three years of operation.
- Any future expansion to external registrants would be a fee-based process entirely controlled and evaluated by the registry operator.