Absolutely. The top-level domain (TLD) “.enterprises” is a relatively new addition to the Internet domain name system which was introduced during the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) generic top-level domain (gTLD) expansion program. Essentially, it provides an alternative for businesses who prefer to use “enterprises” instead of most commonly used terms like “llc” or “inc”.
The term “.enterprises” is a gTLD that is categorized under “Generic – Industry” by the ICANN. This new extension provides start-ups, corporations, and every other type of business an innovative alternative to the typical .com, .net, and .biz endings of the past.
The advantages of using .enterprises include a domain name that is unique, innovative, easy to remember, and specifically tailored to the needs of the user. This brings many marketing and branding benefits as highlighted by InterNetX (2020).
A great example of the use of the .enterprises domain is starbucks.enterprises, which redirects to the official website of Starbucks Corporation. Other companies are also recognizing the value of the .enterprises extension as a way to provide a more business-oriented image, to stand out from the crowd in the increasingly cluttered domain name space, and to present a unique branding opportunity.
Moreover, some digital experts also argue that “enterprises” sounds prestigious and professional, helping brands to convey their business seriousness and size, hence can be an ideal choice for larger businesses or those wanting to add an air of authority to their online presence (Domainnamestat, 2021).
However, it’s also important to note potential downsides of using a gTLD like .enterprises. One possible disadvantage resides in its novelty – because .enterprises and other new TLDs have only been around for a few years, they are not yet as well known or universally recognized as the more ‘traditional’ TLDs.
The use of .enterprises domain name also requires implementation procedures that could prove technically challenging to businesses unfamiliar with modifying DNS records, which could be an important consideration for some firms seeking to use the new extension.
In summary, the use of the “.enterprises” TLD represents a significant opportunity for businesses to create unique, innovative online identities. While the recognition and wider acceptance of .enterprises might yet take some time, pioneering adopters stand to reap the benefits of their early move.
Sources:
1. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). “New gTLD Program.” https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/program
2. InterNetX Blog, “The Power of the Right Domain Extension for Your Startup” https://www.internetx.com/en/blog/the-power-of-the-right-domain-extension-for-your-startup/
3. DomainNameStat, “2021 domain industry trends. What to expect?” https://domainnamestat.com/blog/2021-domain-industry-trends-what-to-expect
