The top-level domain (TLD) “.DEALS” is an Internet extension part of a large group of new generic TLDs (gTLDs) that was introduced as part of ICANN’s (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) New gTLD program in 2011, with the objective of enhancing competition, innovation, and consumer choice on the internet. This initiative resulted in the creation and delegation of over 1,300 new gTLDs to the domain name space.
The “.DEALS” TLD is designed specifically for businesses and individuals interested in promoting special sales or bargain opportunities. This TLD can be leveraged by any entity making it a versatile option for various industry segments including not only the e-commerce sector but also travel, hospitality, real estate, automotive, etc. Businesses can use the .DEALS domain to create unique and targeted websites to publicize and promote deals, sales, and discounts in their respective areas of operation.
For instance, an e-commerce business might utilize the “.DEALS” extension to highlight sales of specific items (e.g., shoes.deals or tech.deals) or, a travel agency might use the TLD to advertise bargain holidays (e.g., holiday.deals or flights.deals).
Donuts Inc., a global registry of domain names, is the operator of “.DEALS”. Donuts Inc. manages hundreds of other top-level domains including .movie, .email, .cafe, etc. The company oversees the registry of these TLDs, maintaining their DNS and Whois records.
In terms of registration, like other TLDs, “.DEALS” domains can be registered through various domain name registrars. Registration does not include restrictions, it is open to anyone interested in securing their unique domain name with the .DEALS extension. A good practice before registering a domain name is to check its availability on domain name search engines like GoDaddy, Namecheap, BlueHost, etc.
However, due precaution is advised when dealing with new gTLDs, including “.DEALS”. ICANN advises prospective registrants to understand the terms and conditions of the domain name registration agreement including the criteria and process the registry uses to allocate domain names.
Overall, the “.DEALS” TLD provides a unique opportunity for domain name diversity and is used by businesses and individuals for specific, deal-focused online identities.
Sources:
1. ICANN’s New gTLD Program (https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/)
2. Donuts Inc. (https://www.donuts.domains/)
3. ACM SIGCOMM Computer Communication Review – “Measurement and Analysis of the .nz Top-Level Domain” (https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/2852439.2852443).
