The top-level domain (TWD) “.durban” is a city-specific TLD for Durban, South Africa. Top-level domains are used in Internet addresses to help identify the type and geographical location of websites, with city-specific TLDs helping to promote local businesses, services, and culture.
The “.durban” TLD provides distinct advantages for the city of Durban and its stakeholders. By having a city-specific domain, it’s easier for local businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals to be found online and to market themselves to a targeted local and international audience. A Durban-based restaurant, for instance, can use the “.durban” TLD to distinguish itself from other restaurant websites, helping to drive traffic to its site, increase its visibility, and boost its local economy.
The implementation and management of these domains is governed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). In Durban’s case, the “.durban” domain extension is administered by ZA Central Registry NPC trading asRegistry.Africa, in collaboration with the city of Durban. ICANN approved the delegation of the “.durban” domain to ZA Central Registry NPC trading as Registry.Africa in 2014.
This is a part of ICANN’s initiative to expand the number of new generic Top Level Domains (gTLDs), which began in June 2008. As of 2021, there are more than 1,500 gTLDs available, many of which are city-specific like “.nyc” for New York City, “.london” for London, and “.tokyo” for Tokyo.
The “.durban” TLD has a dual purpose, promoting both the city’s image and its digital economy, due to the large number of businesses and individuals who are turning towards online platforms to provide their services and share their experiences. Although it first launched in 2014 and is not as popular as other general TLDs like .com or .org, or even some other regional TLDs like .nyc, the .durban TLD continues to gain traction as businesses and individuals recognize the benefits of having a geographically recognizable TLD.
To conclude, the “.durban” top-level domain adds digital character to Durban, South Africa, and helps the city to boost its digital presence. With a growing number of businesses and individuals adopting this distinct TLD, it’s an excellent way for the city to increase its visibility in the digital world.
Sources:
1. “About .Durban.” The ZA Central Registry (ZACR). www.registry.net.za/content.php?tag=11.
2. “Delegation Record for .DURBAN.” Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). www.iana.org/domains/root/db/durban.html.
3. “New gTLD Program.” Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/program.
