The top-level domain (TLD) “.men” is an internet domain categorization intended for websites focused on, or associated with men. In the domain name hierarchy, top-level domains, aka domain name extensions, are situated to the far right of a domain name. For instance, in the address “example.men,” “.men” is the TLD. Each TLD serves a specific purpose and is intended for a certain type of website. The “.men” TLD is a generic top-level domain (gTLD). Other examples of gTLDs include “.com,” “.org,” and “.edu.”
The “.men” TLD was first delegated by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) on April 30, 2015 (Source: IANA). It falls under the category of “generic” top-level domains, signifying it can be utilized by individuals, businesses, and organizations worldwide.
Famous Four Media, a registry responsible for 16 new gTLDs, manages the “.men” domain. The company provides a global, unrestricted, and accessible domain namespace for entrepreneurs, brands, and individuals who want to market specifically to men (Source: ICANNWiki). Examples of websites that could utilize the “.men” domain might include men’s health, men’s fashion, men’s sports, and more.
Moreover, as per its name, “.men” could be highly beneficial for businesses and individuals whose primary target audience or content focuses on men. For instance, a company that sells men’s grooming products may choose to create a website with a “.men” domain. Not only would this help the company establish a clear brand identity online, but it could also enhance the company’s search engine optimization (SEO), making it easier for potential customers to discover their goods or services.
To illustrate, consider the hypothetical website “groominggoods.men.” The domain name immediately communicates that the website is about men’s grooming products. This focused message could attract viewers searching for this particular content, helping the company increase their online traffic and ultimately their sales performance.
Nonetheless, like every TLD, the “.men” domain is susceptible to misuse. For example, Verisign reported in “The Domain Name Industry Brief” (February 2020) that “.men” was among the top 10 TLDs used by phishing websites. Consequently, constant watchfulness is needed from internet users and security agencies to ensure that “.men” websites are legitimate and secure.
Utilization of the “.men” TLD is not extensive as of now. However, as internet users become more accustomed to new gTLDs, and if businesses effectively promote their “.men” websites, this TLD could gain increased prominence in the future.
Sources:
1. IANA: https://www.iana.org/reports/2015/men-report-20150429.html
2. ICANNWiki: https://icannwiki.org/.men
3. The Domain Name Industry Brief – Verisign (February 2020).
