The top-level domain (TLD) “.kaufen” is a relatively recent addition to the domain namespace on the Internet.
The “.kaufen” TLD is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) which was approved by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), the global authority for managing and coordinating the Internet’s domain system. It was proposed and brought into existence by Demand Media, a digital media company situated in the United States that owns and runs online brands. The term “kaufen” translates to “buy” in German and was targeted primarily at German-speaking markets (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, etc.) as a dedicated platform for commerce and online business activities.
According to a document on ICANN’s site (Reconsideration Request 13-4 Verisign v. ICANN), this gTLD officially went live in 2014 and has been open for registration and usage since then. It is currently administered by Rightside Registry, a subsidiary of Demand Media.
Using this TLD can make a difference for businesses looking to connect with German-speaking audiences. Rather than using a more commonplace “.com” or “.net”, businesses can make their websites more inviting and recognizable to the target demographics by implementing a domain name that is specific and relevant to these consumers. For example, online businesses such as bookstores, tech shops, clothing stores, property dealers, and more in the German-speaking region can use the “.kaufen” TLD to indicate that their website is a place for customers to make purchases. This can increase not only the visibility but also the credibility of these websites within the target markets. The “.kaufen” domain fits seamlessly within a URL, making it a powerful marketing and branding tool.
Domain Information Services provides ample statistics about the popularity of various TLDs, and according to them, as of 2021, “.kaufen” holds a ranking within the top 400 gTLDs with thousands of registered domains.
To register a “.kaufen” domain, businesses or individuals can approach domain name registrars accredited by ICANN, such as GoDaddy, Bluehost, Domain.com, etc.
In conclusion, “.kaufen” is a strategic TLD specifically designed for online shopping websites catering to German-speaking audiences. Its usage can generate a significant impact on the visibility, credibility, and overall performance of a website in that market segment.
Sources:
1. ICANN (Reconsideration Request 13-4 Verisign v. ICANN)
2. Demand Media (https://www.owler.com/company/demandmedia)
3. Rightside Registry (https://www.nic.kaufen/)
4. Domain Information Services (https://dofo.com/)
5. GoDaddy (https://www.godaddy.com/)
6. Bluehost (https://www.bluehost.com/)
7. Domain.com (https://www.domain.com/)
