The Top-Level Domain (TLD) “PLUS” is part of the Domain Name System (DNS) used in the Internet’s addressing scheme. Like other such TLDs, it is typically understood to be part of a website URL that is located to the right of the last dot. For example, in the website URL “www.example.plus”, the top-level domain is “PLUS”. TLDs are primarily classified into two categories, generic (gTLDs) and country-code (ccTLDs). The “PLUS” is in the category of gTLD as it doesn’t represent a specific country.
Introduced on November 4, 2015, the “PLUS” gTLD is managed by Donuts Inc., a leading domain name registrar known for offering a wide variety of gTLDs options. “PLUS” allows Internet users to add a positive value to their brand or identity by integrating the word ‘plus’ into their website’s URL. This is often utilized to suggest an addition, enhancement, or an edge over something. Several businesses, organizations, and individuals around the globe are increasingly using “.PLUS” at the end of their website URLs. This could be obvious in websites like “www.electric.plus” which implies that they offer more than ordinary electric services.
There’s no restriction on who can register a “.PLUS” domain; it’s universally available for registration on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Unlike ccTLDs, this TLD does not require the registrant to be located in a specific country or to provide any specific documents.
The registrar Donuts provides a secure and reliable process for domain registration including “.PLUS”, ensuring the legitimacy of registered domain names. They implement certain safeguards such as a validation process, to prevent illegal activities or misuse such as copyright infringement.
When it comes to popularity, statistics from “Domain Name Stat” as of February 2022 show that the “.PLUS” TLD is not among the top 10 in terms of the number of current domain registrations. Still, its usage and appreciation are definitely growing among users who wish to mark a ‘positive quality’ or ‘additional value’ to their identities or brands online.
In conclusion, the “.PLUS” TLD holds a unique space in the internet structure because of its intrinsic positive connotation. Whether it’s being used by businesses or individuals, it opens creative avenues to build an online identity denoting a plus factor or added value. And while it may not be chart-topper among gTLDs, its usage is certainly evolving and expanding in various online spheres.
Sources:
1. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
2. Donuts Inc. Official Website
3. DomainNameStat.com Website
4. Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) Website.
