A top-level domain (TLD) is the last segment of a domain name, or the part that follows immediately after the “dot” symbol. Examples of top-level domains include .com, .net, .org, .gov, etc. These unique identifiers are managed and controlled by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) as per the guidelines from the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA).
The TLD “.glass” is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) introduced as part of ICANN’s new gTLD expansion program. The expansion program’s main objective is to increase the variety of domain names available on the internet; it allows anyone seeking a domain to venture beyond the traditional “.com,” “.net” or “.org” options.
The “.glass” domain was delegated to the DNS root zone on May 22, 2013. If you are wondering why “.glass,” the answer lies in the specifics of the expanded gTLD program. This program has facilitated the introduction of several new TLDs related to various industries, professions, city names, geographical locations, popular terms, and more, aiming to broaden the opportunities for online branding, marketing and communication. The “.glass” TLD fits very neatly into this scenario–it is intended for businesses, individuals, and organizations related to the glass industry.
However, while the “.glass” domain is technically dedicated to the glass industry or glass-related topics, like many TLDs, it can be registered and used for any purpose. That said, credible businesses using this domain are typically in some way involved in the glass industry, whether they manufacture, sell or install glass products, or provide information related to glass.
The “.glass” TLD is managed and maintained by the Donuts Inc registry, a company specializing in domain name registration services. Donuts Inc operates hundreds of gTLDs and provides millions of unique, memorable, and specific internet addresses to entrepreneurs, businesses and organizations globally. Their TLD offerings encompass a broad range of categories, which include industries, locations, professions, identities, and more, providing greater choice and personalization for domain name registrations.
To register a “.glass” domain, you generally need to go through a domain name registrar that works with the Donuts Inc registry. This process involves checking the availability of the domain, filling out the required forms, and paying a registration fee. Many domain registrars offer the option to buy and manage a “.glass” domain, such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, and others.
Sources:
- “About Generic Top-Level Domains”. ICANN. Retrieved from: https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/gtlds-2012-02-25-en
- ”.GLASS”. IANA. Retrieved from: https://data.iana.org/TLD/tlds-alpha-by-domain.txt
- “Donuts Inc.”. Donuts Inc. Retrieved from: https://donuts.domains/
- “Register Domains”. GoDaddy. Retrieved from: https://www.godaddy.com/domains/domain-name-search
- “Domain Name Search”. Namecheap. Retrieved from: https://www.namecheap.com/domains/registration/results/
