About .ru domain
The .ru domain is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Russia. It is operated by the Coordination Center for TLD RU, which has managed the registry since its official delegation by IANA in 2006. The extension was introduced in 1994 and operates under a distributed, self-regulated system where accredited commercial registrars handle direct registrations. It is an open-use ccTLD with no restrictions based on nationality or location.
Who can register .ru domain
Registration for .ru domains is open to anyone globally, with no restrictions for foreign individuals or legal entities. There are no geographic or citizenship requirements to register a domain name under this extension. Applicants must, however, ensure their chosen name does not infringe on trademarks or contain prohibited content, such as obscene words or hate slogans. The registration process is conducted on a first-come, first-served basis through accredited registrars.
How to register .ru domain
- Search for your desired .ru domain name's availability using the search tool at an accredited registrar's website, ensuring the name meets the technical requirements of 2 to 63 characters using letters, digits, and hyphens.
- Compare prices and services from different accredited .ru registrars, as fees and bundled features like WHOIS privacy or email hosting can vary significantly between providers.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing accurate contact information which will be used for the mandatory verification process.
- Verify your contact details via email or SMS as required by the registry, then proceed to configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .ru domain
The .ru extension is predominantly used by individuals, businesses, and organizations connected to Russia, serving as the primary digital identifier for the Russian internet space. It is a popular choice for local companies, news media, e-commerce platforms, and personal websites seeking a clear geographic association with the Russian market. Many international entities with operations or audiences in Russia also register .ru domains to establish a local presence and build trust with Russian users.
Tips for registering .ru domain
- The minimum registration term is one year, and domains can be registered for up to ten years at a time.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available through accredited registrars, but the registry's policies require accurate contact information to be maintained.
- Domain names that include words contrary to public interests or morality, such as obscenities or hate slogans, are prohibited from registration.
- The registry operates a "first come, first served" registration policy, but applicants are responsible for ensuring their domain does not infringe on existing trademarks.
Frequently asked questions about .ru domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .ru domain?
As of today, .ru domains start from $6.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $49.99/yr across 4 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .ru domains?
NameBeta tracks 4 registrars that support .ru domain registration, with the cheapest option at $6.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .ru domain?
The registry for .ru domains is Coordination Center for TLD RU.
Who can register a .ru domain?
Registration is open globally to any individual or legal entity, regardless of their country of residence or incorporation. While no specific documentation proving a connection to Russia is required, all applicants must provide valid and verifiable contact information during the registration process. It is the registrant's responsibility to ensure their chosen domain name does not violate intellectual property rights or registry content policies.
Can I transfer a .ru domain between registrars?
Transferring a .ru domain between accredited registrars is a standardized process. You must first obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked and not within 60 days of its initial registration or a previous transfer. The new registrar will initiate the transfer, which requires confirmation from the domain's administrative contact via email to complete the process.
What should I check before registering a .ru domain name?
Before registering, you should conduct a trademark search to ensure the name does not infringe on existing intellectual property in Russia or internationally. You should also verify that the name complies with the technical rules, such as length and character set, and does not contain prohibited content like hate speech. Checking the availability of desired social media handles can also be part of a cohesive branding strategy.
Are there any special dispute policies for .ru domains?
Disputes over .ru domain names are typically resolved using the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which is applicable to this ccTLD. Registrants should be aware that the registry's rules also allow for the suspension of domains that are used contrary to public interests or morality. Proactive monitoring of potential trademark conflicts is advised, as the registration system operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I register a third-level .ru domain, like a .msk.ru address?
Yes, registrations are possible at the third level under various designated second-level domains, such as .msk.ru for Moscow or .com.ru for commercial organizations. These are often managed by specific registrars or organizations, and their availability and registration rules may differ from standard second-level .ru registrations. You would need to check with an accredited registrar that offers these specific third-level domain services.
What happens if I don't verify my contact information after registering?
Failure to verify your contact details within the timeframe specified by your registrar can result in the suspension of your domain name. The registry requires accurate and verifiable contact information for all registrants. It is crucial to respond promptly to any verification emails or SMS messages sent after registration to avoid service interruption and potential loss of the domain.
