About .lk domain
.lk is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Sri Lanka. It was introduced on June 15, 1990, and is operated by the LK Domain Registry. The extension functions as a structured namespace, offering registrations at both the second level and beneath categorized third-level domains. Its management includes specific policies governing name eligibility and use.
Who can register .lk domain
Registration is open to organizations, including statutory bodies, corporations, firms, and associations, as well as to individuals. Foreign companies without a local presence can reserve a name but must have a local contact address in Sri Lanka to complete registration and use the domain. Certain second-level domains like .gov.lk, .ac.lk, .sch.lk, .net.lk, and .int.lk are restricted to specific entity types such as government departments, academic institutions, schools, ISPs, and international treaty organizations.
How to register .lk domain
- Search for your desired .lk domain name's availability, noting that registrations can occur directly at the second level (e.g.,
example.lk) or at the third level under specific categories (e.g.,example.com.lk). - Choose a registrar accredited by the LK Domain Registry, comparing their service terms, as you may need to provide justification for your chosen name and documentation depending on the registration level.
- Complete the checkout process, which will require submitting accurate registrant information and, for foreign entities, arranging for a local administrative contact address in Sri Lanka.
- Finalize the registration by verifying your contact details and configuring your DNS settings; remember that registering a name at the second level automatically blocks its registration under all third-level categories.
Typical uses of .lk domain
The .lk extension is predominantly used by entities connected with Sri Lanka, serving as their primary national online identifier. It is popular among local businesses, commercial entities using .com.lk, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and government bodies. Users choose it to establish a clear local presence, trust, and relevance within the country, often preferring it over generic TLDs for targeting the Sri Lankan market. Hotels, associations, and societies also utilize specific third-level domains like .hotel.lk and .soc.lk for industry-specific branding.
Tips for registering .lk domain
- Registrants must provide a clear justification for registering a particular name, and numerous generic or protected names (e.g., country names, town names, terms implying government patronage) are prohibited unless specific approval or licensing is demonstrated.
- Domain names must contain at least two letters, can only use letters a-z, digits 0-9, and hyphens, and cannot begin or end with a hyphen.
- A second-level registration (e.g.,
name.lk) automatically reserves that name from being registered by anyone else under any of the available third-level categories (e.g.,name.com.lk). - Specific second-level domains like .gov.lk and .ac.lk are reserved for exclusive use by government organizations and academic institutions, respectively.