The top-level domain (TLD) .inc is a relatively new addition to the long list of internet domain extensions, including .com, .org, and .net. Introduced by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), an international organization that oversees all aspects of domain names and IP addresses, .inc was launched to the general public in May 2019 by the registry service, Intercap Registry Inc.
As it directly denotes “incorporated”, the .inc TLD is marketed directly toward businesses, specifically incorporated companies. While all kinds of businesses are technically eligible to register a .inc domain, it’s primarily aimed at legally incorporated businesses to highlight their corporate identity online. It’s worth noting that there are no geographical restrictions for .inc domain registrations which means it can be registered and used by entities around the world.
When compared to traditional TLDs like .com or .net, the .inc TLD carries a significantly higher price point. This fee includes many premium benefits and business services. However, because of its high cost, some smaller businesses may choose to stick with the familiar and less expensive .com or .net domains.
Investment in .inc domain can provide a range of benefits. Firstly, it adds immediately recognizable corporate identification to a website URL. As many businesses are legally incorporated, it seems reasonable to include this important status in the company’s internet address. Additionally, the .inc TLD is still relatively new, there’s plenty of availability – meaning businesses could potentially get their exact company name, as opposed to a .com or .net URL where many common names are already taken.
Furthermore, investing in a .inc domain heightens brand protection. As each .inc domain costs a significant amount, it is less likely for domain squatters to buy up .inc domains with familiar sounding names.
Various industry opinions suggest that .inc can be a worthwhile investment for suitable businesses. Website Planet, for instance, notes its appeal to legally incorporated businesses who want to highlight their corporate status online. DomainNameStat, a domain statistics portal, suggested that due to its global availability, it opens up opportunities for businesses to expand or protect their brand.
Sources:
1. “.inc Domain Names | An Official Registry for Your Business Online.” websiteplanet.com. Website Planet, 2019.
2. “Press Release: The Launch of .INC – Reinventing Domain Names.” 101domain.com. 101domain, 2019.
3. “.inc Launch – The Domain That Means Business.” trademark-clearinghouse.com. Trademark Clearinghouse.
4. “Introducing .inc – The Domain That Means Business.” get.inc, Intercap Registry Inc.
5. “.inc Domain Statistics – Tld List.” Domainnamestat.com. DomainNameStat, 2020.
6. “New Generic Top Level Domains (gTLDs).” Icann.org. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.
