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  • Compare .gq domain prices

    RegistrarPriceRenew PriceWHOIS PrivacyPayment Methods
    $31.36Cheapest
    $63.98Cheapest renewal
    Free
    Credit or Debit CardPayPalBank TransferCryptocurrency
    Type
    Country-code top-level domain
    Territory
    Equatorial Guinea
    Registry
    GETESA
    Launched
    DNSSEC
    Not supported
    IDN
    Not supported

    About .gq domain

    The .gq domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Equatorial Guinea. It was delegated in July 1997 and is operated by GETESA. The registry is notable for its partnership with Freenom, which introduced a free registration model in 2015, making it one of the few TLDs available at no cost. As a domain product, it is managed through the Dominio.gq platform.

    Who can register .gq domain

    Registration for .gq domains is open to any individual or legal entity globally, with no restrictions based on residency or organizational status. There is no limit to the number of domains a single registrant can own. For free registrations, the registry enforces a content policy that prohibits certain types of websites, such as those involving adult content, gambling, or hate speech. Paid registrations offer full legal ownership without these content-based usage restrictions.

    How to register .gq domain

    1. Search for your desired .gq domain name on a participating registrar's website to check its availability, noting that many names may be available due to the free registration model.
    2. Choose between a free registration with content restrictions or a paid registration for full ownership, and compare any associated services like email hosting or website builders offered by the registrar.
    3. Complete the checkout process, which for free domains may require creating an account with the registry's partner, while paid registrations will involve standard payment processing.
    4. After registration, verify your contact details in the WHOIS record and configure your domain's DNS settings to point to your web hosting or email service.

    Typical uses of .gq domain

    The .gq extension sees a wide variety of uses, though its adoption within Equatorial Guinea itself is relatively limited. It is commonly chosen by individuals and organizations globally seeking a short, memorable domain name, often for personal projects, link shortening, or experimental websites, due to its availability and historic free registration tier. However, its low cost has also led to significant use for spam and phishing campaigns, which has impacted its overall reputation. Users selecting a .gq domain for legitimate purposes often do so for its affordability and distinctiveness.

    Tips for registering .gq domain

    • Domains can be registered for free under a specific model with strict content policies, or purchased as paid registrations which confer standard legal ownership rights.
    • Free .gq registrations are subject to active content review and can be suspended if the website violates the registry's prohibited content categories.
    • Paid .gq domains are eligible for standard dispute resolution procedures like the UDRP, while free domains typically are not.
    • The registry supports the registration of emoji domain names, allowing for creative and visually distinctive web addresses.

    Frequently asked questions about .gq domain

    How much does it cost to register and renew a .gq domain?As of today, .gq domains start from $31.36/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $31.36/yr across 1 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.
    Which registrars support .gq domains?NameBeta tracks 1 registrars that support .gq domain registration, with the cheapest option at $31.36/yr. Full list on this page.
    Who operates .gq domain?The registry for .gq domains is GETESA.
    Who can register a .gq domain?

    While registration is open to anyone globally, the type of registration matters. Free .gq domains require adherence to a content policy that bans sites with adult material, hate speech, or gambling. For registrants seeking full control and traditional ownership rights without these usage restrictions, purchasing a paid .gq domain is the recommended path.

    Can I transfer a .gq domain between registrars?

    Transferring a .gq domain between registrars follows standard ICANN procedures for ccTLDs. You will need to unlock the domain at your current registrar and obtain an authorization code (EPP code). It's important to confirm whether your domain is a free or paid registration, as transfer policies and eligibility may differ between these two product types.

    What content is prohibited on a free .gq domain?

    The registry's content policy for free domains explicitly prohibits websites containing racism, hate speech, adult entertainment, promotion of drugs or weapons, gambling, viruses/spyware, domain parking pages, or non-existent pages. Sites found in violation are subject to suspension. This policy does not apply to paid .gq domain registrations.

    Are there any special protections for trademark holders?

    Yes, the registry conducted a sunrise period prior to the public launch of the free registration model, allowing trademark owners to secure their names. For paid .gq domains, standard trademark protection mechanisms like the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) are available to address cases of cybersquatting.

    What happens if my free .gq domain is suspended?

    If a free registration is suspended for violating the content policy, the domain name is typically reclaimed by the registry. The registrant loses access and cannot transfer it. To maintain permanent control and avoid content-based suspension, registrants should consider upgrading to a paid .gq domain registration.