About .goog domain
The .goog domain is a brand gTLD operated exclusively by Charleston Road Registry Inc., a subsidiary of Google. It was delegated in ICANN's New gTLD Program and entered the root zone on January 24, 2015. The extension was created to serve as a dedicated, branded Internet space for the registry operator's own use. As a closed generic TLD, it is not available for public registration.
Who can register .goog domain
Registration of .goog domains is strictly restricted to the registry operator, Google. The TLD is completely closed, meaning second-level domains are intended for registration and use by Google only. The general public cannot purchase, sell, or register any domain names under this extension. Charleston Road Registry applied for and received an exemption from the ICANN Registry Operator Code of Conduct due to this exclusive use.
How to register .goog domain
The .goog TLD is not allocated through commercial registrars or a public registration process. Domain names under this extension are allocated internally by the registry operator, Google, for its own use. The registry acts as the sole registrar and registrant for all domains. There is no mechanism for external entities or individuals to apply for or request a .goog domain name.
Typical uses of .goog domain
This TLD is used exclusively by Google to create a recognizable and trusted branded web space for its services and internal projects. It allows the company to categorize and streamline its online offerings under a unified, short extension. The use of .goog domains is intended to support innovation and provide a distinct namespace for Google's various internet-based products and initiatives.
Tips for registering .goog domain
- This is a closed TLD; domains are not available for purchase or registration by the public.
- All domains are registered and used solely by the registry operator, Google.
- The registry operates under an exemption from the standard ICANN Registry Operator Code of Conduct.
Frequently asked questions about .goog domain
Who operates .goog domain?
The registry for .goog domains is Google Registry, administered by Charleston Road Registry Inc..
Who can register a .goog domain?
Only the registry operator, Google, through its subsidiary Charleston Road Registry Inc., can register domains in the .goog extension. This is a strictly closed generic top-level domain, meaning it was established for the exclusive use of the brand that applied for it. There are no eligibility criteria for external registrants because public registrations are not permitted under the TLD's charter.
Can I transfer a .goog domain between registrars?
Inter-registrar transfers are not applicable for the .goog extension because there is only one permitted registrant: the registry itself. Since the TLD is closed and no domains are registered to external parties, there is no process for transferring a .goog domain between registrars or to a different registrant. All domains are managed internally by the registry operator.
Can I buy a .goog domain from a registrar or the registry?
No, you cannot purchase a .goog domain. The TLD is a closed brand extension, meaning the registry operator is the sole entity allowed to register domains. It is not offered for sale to the public through any registrar. The entire namespace is reserved for the internal use of Google and its affiliated entities.
What is the purpose of a closed TLD like .goog?
Closed brand TLDs like .goog allow a company to create a secure, dedicated namespace for its services, internal networks, and branding initiatives. It helps streamline digital assets under a single, recognizable extension that is inherently trusted because it is controlled solely by the brand. This structure can enhance security by eliminating potential confusion with lookalike domains registered by third parties.
Are there any dispute policies for .goog domains?
Formal public dispute policies like the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) are generally not applicable because the registry is the only registrant. Any internal allocation or naming disputes would be handled within the company's own governance framework. The closed nature of the TLD inherently prevents the cybersquatting and trademark conflicts that open TLDs experience.