The top-level domain (TLD) refers to the last segment of a domain name or the part that follows immediately after the “dot” symbol. For instance, in the domain name “google.com,” “.com” is the TLD. There are numerous TLDs that function in the internet world today, including .com, .gov, .edu, .org, and more. Among them, .jll is a less common, newer iteration of the TLD. As the subject matter is unique, the available records pertaining to the .jll TLD are relatively scarce compared to more popular TLD names.
The Domain Name System (DNS) is a naming system for computers and other entities connected to the Internet or a private network. It forms the crucial element of the internet’s functionality by translating user-friendly domain names into numeric IP addresses that devices require to access services on the internet. Since its inception, the DNS has expanded and evolved into a complex system with a diverse range of TLDs that structure the internet’s addressing schemes. Traditionally, these TLDs have been categorized into gTLDs (generic top-level domains like .com or .org) and ccTLDs (country-code top-level domains like .us or .de).
However, in 2012, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)––an international organization responsible for managing and coordinating the DNS to maintain a secure and stable operation of the internet––initiated the New generic top-level domain (gTLD) Program which greatly expanded the domain naming options available. This allowed organizations and companies to apply for customized TLDs.
The .jll TLD is one such result of the New gTLD Program. It was delegated to the Root Zone of the DNS on 23rd June 2015, with the sponsoring organization being Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. The company is a global commercial real estate services firm that operates in more than 80 countries. The .jll TLD provides an exclusive digital space for the company and its associates reinforcing the brand’s digital presence.
The use of brand-name gTLDs such as .jll presents a host of benefits for companies. It can strengthen the brand image, provide a secure and controlled environment, and grant the ability to streamline and manage all online assets under a consistent brand identity.
In conclusion, the .jll is a custom gTLD owned by Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. Its existence exemplifies the expansion of the domain naming system, which is no longer restricted to traditional gTLDs and ccTLDs.
Sources used:
1. ICANN (https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/)
2. Domain Incite (http://domainincite.com/)
3. WHOIS (https://whois.icann.org/)
4. JLL Official Site (https://www.jll.com/)
