The top-level domain (TLD) “.cg” is the Internet country code for the Republic of Congo. In the domain name system (DNS) of the Internet, country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) represent specific geographical locations. In this case, “.cg” specifically refers to the Republic of Congo.
The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) is responsible for the global coordination of the DNS Root, IP addressing, and other Internet protocol resources. According to its database, the ccTLD “.cg” was delegated in 1997 and is currently sponsored and managed by ONPT Congo and Interpoint Switzerland.
Just like other ccTLDs, “.cg” can be used by individuals, businesses and organizations that want to target Internet users in the Republic of Congo, or want to refer to this location for other reasons. For instance, a business that operates in the Republic of Congo might want to use a “.cg” domain to demonstrate its presence in the country and to potentially increase trust among local consumers.
The use of ccTLDs, such as “.cg”, can have implications on search engine optimization (SEO). Google notes that it uses ccTLDs as one way to geotarget content on websites, so using a “.cg” domain could potentially enhance the visibility of a website to users in the Republic of Congo.
To register a “.cg” domain, one must usually go through a domain name registrar that offers this ccTLD. The exact process can depend on various factors, including the specific registrar’s policies and whether the person registering the domain has a physical presence in the Republic of Congo. Note that use of “.cg” is subject to both local laws and terms set by ICANN, the international body responsible for managing the Internet’s domain name system.
In terms of examples, there aren’t many well-known websites using the “.cg” domain, possibly due to the relative size and global internet presence of businesses and organizations in the Republic of Congo. Examples include www.e-visa.cg, an official government website for electronic visas application.
Sources:
- Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Root Zone Database. https://www.iana.org/domains/root/db
- Google. Understanding domain names. https://support.google.com/domains/answer/3290350
- Search Engine Journal. How to Use .INFO and .CG cctld domains for SEO. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/how-to-use-info-and-cg-cctld-domains-for-seo/6064/
- ONPT Congo and Interpoint Switzerland. www.nic.cg
- ICANN. Registering a Domain Name. https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/register-domain-name-2017-06-20-en
- e-Visa Congo. www.e-visa.cg
