About .guide domain
.guide is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Donuts (Snow Moon, LLC) as the registry. It was delegated to the root zone in May 2014 following ICANN's New gTLD Program. The rights to operate the TLD were secured by Donuts through a private auction process. As a commercial gTLD product, it is available for public registration through accredited domain registrars worldwide.
Who can register .guide domain
Registration for a .guide domain is open to anyone globally, with no restrictions based on geography, industry, or organizational status. There are no specific verification or documentation requirements for the majority of registrants. Both individuals and entities can register a .guide domain name for any lawful purpose. The TLD operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to register .guide domain
- Begin by using a domain registrar's search tool to check if your desired .guide domain name is available for registration.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting from different accredited registrars offering .guide domains.
- Complete the online checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period, which is typically one year or more.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email if required and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your website or hosting service.
Typical uses of .guide domain
The .guide extension is commonly chosen by individuals and organizations creating informational, instructional, or advisory content. It is frequently used for websites that serve as tutorials, how-to manuals, travel guides, or expert resource hubs. Businesses in consulting, education, and hobbyist communities often select .guide to immediately signal the instructive nature of their site's content, differentiating it from more generic commercial extensions.
Tips for registering .guide domain
- .guide domains typically have a minimum registration term of one year, with options to register for multiple years upfront.
- WHOIS privacy protection services are generally available for .guide domains through most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact details from the public database.
- The TLD follows standard ICANN transfer policies, meaning domains can usually be transferred between registrars 60 days after initial registration or a previous transfer.
- Standard grace periods for renewal and redemption likely apply, but specific timelines should be confirmed with your chosen registrar.
Frequently asked questions about .guide domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .guide domain?
As of today, .guide domains start from $5.49/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $76.88/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .guide domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .guide domain registration, with the cheapest option at $5.49/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .guide domain?
The registry for .guide domains is Identity Digital, administered by Binky Moon, LLC.
Who can register a .guide domain?
There are no eligibility restrictions for registering a .guide domain; it is open globally to individuals, businesses, and organizations. You do not need to prove you are creating a guide or tutorial to register the name. The registration process is straightforward and does not require submitting special documentation or undergoing a verification process beyond standard ICANN requirements for contact accuracy.
Can I transfer a .guide domain between registrars?
Transferring a .guide domain to a new registrar follows the standard ICANN inter-registrar transfer policy. The process is initiated by obtaining an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and providing it to the gaining registrar. Transfers are typically prohibited for the first 60 days after initial registration or a previous transfer. Ensure your domain is unlocked and WHOIS privacy is disabled before starting the transfer.
Are there any content restrictions for .guide websites?
The .guide registry does not enforce specific content requirements on websites using the extension. Registrants must comply with all applicable laws and ICANN policies, but there is no mandate that the site must contain tutorial or guide material. This makes .guide a versatile choice for various projects, even if they are not strictly instructional in nature.
What dispute policies apply to .guide domain names?
.guide domains are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which allows trademark holders to challenge bad-faith registrations. The registry also likely participated in the Trademark Clearinghouse during its launch phase, offering trademark owners Sunrise and Claims services. These mechanisms help protect intellectual property rights within the TLD namespace.
Can I register premium .guide domain names?
Yes, the registry likely holds back certain premium .guide domain names, which are sold at higher, often non-standard prices. These premium names might include short, generic, or highly sought-after keywords. Availability and pricing for premium names vary by registrar and are typically listed separately from standard-priced domain inventory during a search.
