About .uk domain
.uk is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the United Kingdom, managed by the registry Nominet UK. It was first registered in July 1985, making it one of the earliest ccTLDs. The extension operates under a well-established set of registration rules and is available through a wide network of accredited registrars.
Who can register .uk domain
Registration for most second-level .uk domains, such as .co.uk, .org.uk, and .me.uk, is open to any individual or legal entity without geographic restrictions. Some specific second-level domains have eligibility requirements; for example, .ltd.uk and .plc.uk require the registrant to be a corresponding type of company registered at UK Companies House, while .sch.uk is restricted to educational institutions.
How to register .uk domain
- Search for your desired domain name's availability on the website of a Nominet-accredited registrar, checking both the direct .uk and popular second-level options like .co.uk.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from several registrars, as costs and features can vary.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact details, which will be validated.
- After purchase, verify your email to confirm the registration and then configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting.
Typical uses of .uk domain
The .uk extension is predominantly used by entities connected to the United Kingdom, ranging from global corporations to local small businesses and individuals. It is a strong choice for establishing a local presence and trust with a UK audience. Many organizations choose .co.uk for commercial ventures, while .org.uk is common for charities and non-profits, making it a versatile and recognizable national identifier online.
Tips for registering .uk domain
- Domains can be registered for a minimum of one year, with renewal terms also typically set annually.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available for most .uk second-level domains through accredited registrars.
- A "right of registration" period previously allowed holders of certain .uk second-level domains first claim to the matching direct .uk domain.
- Registration follows a strict first-come, first-served basis, and names must correspond exactly to a company's registered name for restricted domains like .ltd.uk.
Frequently asked questions about .uk domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .uk domain?
As of today, .uk domains start from $5.30/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $54.50/yr across 27 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .uk domains?
NameBeta tracks 27 registrars that support .uk domain registration, with the cheapest option at $5.30/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .uk domain?
The registry for .uk domains is Nominet, administered by Nominet UK.
Who can register a .uk domain?
Registration is open globally for most second-level domains like .co.uk. Specific SLDs have restrictions; for instance, .ltd.uk domains require the registrant to be a UK private limited company with a matching name at Companies House. Personal names can be registered under .me.uk, which is reserved for natural persons.
Can I transfer a .uk domain between registrars?
Transferring a .uk domain between accredited registrars is typically straightforward, initiated by obtaining an authorization code from the current registrar. The process is governed by Nominet's transfer policy to ensure security. There is no mandatory transfer lock period, but the domain must be more than 60 days old and not be in a pending legal or administrative status.
What happens if I don't renew my .uk domain on time?
Nominet provides a grace period after a domain expires, during which you can usually renew it at the standard rate. If the domain is not renewed during this period, it enters a redemption phase where recovery is possible but may involve an additional fee. Ultimately, unredeemed domains are deleted and become available for public registration again.
Are there any content requirements for a .uk website?
There are no specific content mandates imposed by the registry for most .uk domains. Registrants must, however, comply with Nominet's Terms and Conditions, which include providing accurate contact details. The use of certain restricted second-level domains like .sch.uk or .police.uk is tied to the eligible organization's operations.
How are disputes over .uk domain names handled?
Disputes are resolved through Nominet's own Dispute Resolution Service (DRS), which is similar to the UDRP but tailored for .uk domains. The process can involve mediation and, if necessary, a decision by an independent expert. Complaints often center on allegations of abusive registration, such as cybersquatting on trademarks.
