The Top-Level Domain (TLD) “.AIRFORCE” is a more recent addition to the domain name system’s (DNS) root zone database. This TLD brings a unique virtual identity to individuals who are part of or associated with an air force or aviation industry. Registry Services, LLC, a subsidiary of United TLD Holdco Ltd., manages the domain extension, as verified by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).
A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the portion of a domain name that appears to the far right of a website URL. For instance, in the domain name “www.example.com,” ‘.com’ is the TLD (ICANN). Operating since the inception of the web, classic TLDs like “.com,” “.org,” and “.net” are well-known. However, starting in 2012, ICANN began introducing a plethora of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) to provide more options for branding and specialization. One of these new gTLDs is “.AIRFORCE” (Domain Name Stat).
“.AIRFORCE” is among the industry and profession-specific domains like “.lawyer,” “.actor,” “.engineer,” etc. This TLD specifically targets or is relevant to those associated with an air force or aviation industry. It could enable air force personnel and relevant businesses, services, and contractors to establish an online presence related to their profession or industry. For instance, an Air Force recruitment center may use “www.join.AIRFORCE” to increase its visibility and user accessibility.
Options with these new gTLDs also include geographical TLDs such as “.london” or “.nyc,” brand-specific ones like “.microsoft” or “.nike,” hobby-related like”.music” or “.photo,” etc. gTLDs allow for more descriptive, intuitive, or audience-specific domain names (Internet Society).
There are certain eligibility criteria for registering an “.AIRFORCE” domain, and it is not strictly restricted to official air force bodies or personnel. Certain businesses, service providers, or even fans associated with the air force could acquire this TLD (RightOfTheDot). It must be stressed, however, that procuring and using such domains should not infringe upon trademarks or rights of official bodies.
In conclusion, “.AIRFORCE” is a domain extension welcoming those associated with the air force or aviation industry to establish a unique digital identity. Such new TLDs allow for a greater diversity of brand representation, catering to audience-specific, geographical, and specific industry needs.
Sources:
- ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers): https://www.icann.org
- Domain Name Stat: https://domainnamestat.com
- Internet Society: https://www.internetsociety.org
- RightOfTheDot: http://rightofthedot.com/services/new-gtld-services/
