The top-level domain (TLD) “.bz” is the Internet country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Belize. This is verified by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), an authoritative body that manages the global IP address space, DNS root zone, and other Internet protocol resources, where they list “.bz” as a ccTLD representing Belize in their Root Zone Database.
A country code top-level domain (ccTLD) like “.bz” is a two-letter Internet top-level domain specifically designated for a particular country, sovereign state, or dependent territory. These are typically used or reserved for a specific country like Belize in this case, and are meant to assist with localizing the web addresses and allowing users to readily identify the country affiliation of a particular website.
The “.bz” domain was first launched in September 1991 and the University Management Limited (UMLTD) served as the administrator. UMLTD later formed the Belize Network Information Center (BZNIC) to maintain the domain. As of 2015, the “.bz” domain management was transferred to the University of Belize.
Belize itself markets the “.bz” domain for businesses worldwide, indicating it could represent ‘business’ because of its phonetic similarity. An example of this is an Italian broadcasting network, JazzRadio.bz. They use the “.bz” domain, although they are not located in Belize. This is because the “.bz” domain name was marketed worldwide as an abbreviation for ‘business’.
The use of the “.bz” TLD is regulated, and the registrant must comply with the policies the registry has in place. It is open to anyone, but they must abide by the rules and regulations that have been set up by the University of Belize as the domain’s registrar.
The use of Technically specified in a DNS settings, the TLDs”.bz” domains can help localize a website for users in Belize, augmenting the user experience by presenting relevant, localized information. Moreover, for businesses, holding a “.bz” can add a level of trustworthiness and integrity, given that ccTLDs are often perceived as more legitimate compared to generic TLDs.
In summary, the “.bz” domain is the country code top-level domain for Belize, managed by the University of Belize and regulated by their set of policies. It is used both by organizations that are based in Belize and by businesses worldwide wishing to present a business-oriented site.
References:
1. IANA. Root Zone Database. Available at: https://www.iana.org/domains/root/db
2. University of Belize. .BZ Domain Name Policy. Available at: https://www.ub.edu.bz/service-category/domain/
3. JazzRadio. Our Story. Available at: https://www.jazzradio.com/our\_story
4. ICANN. Country Code Top-Level Domains. Available at: https://learning.icann.org/en/m02/ccTld
5. Niigata University. Recommendations for Country Code Top-Level Domain (ccTLD) Administration. Available at: http://www.nic.ad.jp/en/docs/recommendations.html
