About .gu domain
.gu is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Guam. The domain is managed and operated by the Guam Network Information Center, with sponsorship from the University of Guam. It was introduced on April 15, 1994. Unlike many commercial TLDs, registrations are processed directly through the sponsoring organization rather than through a competitive open registry model.
Who can register .gu domain
Registration for a .gu domain name is restricted. Applicants must be a business that is officially registered with the Department of Revenue & Taxation on Guam. Furthermore, the registrant must maintain a contact presence within Guam. Registrations are not made at the second level (e.g., example.gu) but are instead accepted at the third level beneath designated second-level labels.
How to register .gu domain
This TLD is not allocated through standard commercial registrars. To obtain a .gu domain, interested parties must submit an application directly to the Guam Network Information Center, which is managed by the University of Guam. The process involves filling out an official application form and providing proof of business registration with Guam's tax authority. The sponsoring organization reviews applications and makes allocation decisions based on eligibility. Successful applicants receive their third-level domain (e.g., example.com.gu) upon approval.
Typical uses of .gu domain
The .gu domain extension is primarily used by entities with a verifiable presence in Guam. This includes local businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations operating on the island. It serves as a geographic identifier for websites targeting the local community or representing Guamanian interests. Due to its eligibility restrictions, it is not widely used by entities outside the territory, making it a focused, local namespace.
Tips for registering .gu domain
- Registrations are accepted only at the third level, beneath second-level labels like .com.gu, .org.gu, .net.gu, .gov.gu, and .edu.gu.
- There is no publicly listed fee for registration, as indicated by sources stating it is free of charge.
- Eligibility is strictly limited to businesses registered with Guam's Department of Revenue & Taxation and requires a local contact.
- The registry is operated by a non-commercial entity (the University of Guam), suggesting policies may differ from typical for-profit registries.