The top-level domain (TLD) GP stands for Guadeloupe; it is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the French overseas department and region of Guadeloupe. GP is among over 200 ccTLDs, as listed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a non-profit organization tasked with coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces of the Internet (ICANN).
Domain name registries, such as NETIM or Gandi, manage the registration of these internet domain names. These registries follow policies established by their respective countries and work with domain name registrars (companies that sell domain names to the public) to sell these domain names to interested parties.
As with some other country code TLDs (like .DE for Germany or .CN for China), the .GP domain can be lucrative and attractive for website owners and businesses both within and outside of Guadeloupe. For example, businesses operating in Guadeloupe can use the .GP domain to show their strong connection to the area, while others may use it for domain hacking; a technique where keywords are combined with different TLDs to create memorable or clever phrases. However, it is important to review the registry’s conditions and restrictions on registration (Conditions générales d’enregistrement des noms de domaine).
The Network Information Center for GP (NIC.GP) is responsible for managing and setting the rules for the .GP domain. According to their website, there are certain conditions for registration. For instance, only organizations may register .gp domain names and the applicant must either have a connection with Guadeloupe or have a local representative.
French law protects GP domains, and the French Data Protection Authority (Commission Nationale de L’informatique et des Libertés or CNIL) ensures data protection for .GP registrants. This enforcement of laws, regulations, and policies is common with ccTLDs and offers additional security and trust in the domain (CNIL).
In conclusion, the GP top-level domain is a valuable digital asset for Guadeloupe, serving local organizations and businesses while attracting international entities that either have local connections or use the domain for unique branding strategies.
Sources:
- ICANN Website
- NETIM Registry website
- Gandi Website
- NIC.GP Conditions générales d’enregistrement des noms de domaine
- CNIL Website
