The top-level domain (TLD) “.science” is classified under the group of generic top-level domains (gTLD). Domain names with the .science TLD are primarily intended for scientific communities, but there are no specific registration restrictions which means anybody can purchase and use a .science domain name.
Like the famous TLD’s such as .com, .org, or .net, .science works in exactly the same way and is managed by registry operators. The .science TLD is managed by a registry operator known as Famous Four Media. This company has been responsible for a range of new gTLD’s including .loan, .win, .men, .bid, and .stream among others.
Much like other gTLD’s, the .science domain can be used for various applications by anyone interested in science, researcher, science teacher, student, or a company committed to science, technology and innovation. For instance, www.earthscience.tech is a webpage dedicated to exploring and explaining complex earth science concepts in an engaging and straightforward manner, whereas www.alberteinstein.science is a domain name dedicated to the life and research work of Albert Einstein.
While these examples demonstrate the usage of .science TLD, it should also be noted that a .science domain name, just like other gTLD’s, also come with some associated risks. The .science TLD was reported as the most frequently abused top-level domain in 2018 by Spamhaus Project, a non-profit organization that tracks spam and other related cyber threats. Their findings shows that this TLD was largely used for spam and other malicious activities, thereby damaging the reputation of legitimate .science domains.
However, this does not imply that all .science domains are bad. It simply means there’s a higher risk factor associated and thus it is advised to be cautious. However, many legitimate websites still use the .science TLD and maintain its purpose of providing a space for scientific discussion and advancement.
In summary, the .science TLD is a gTLD that provides an online space that can be used for various scientific applications. However, like any other internet property, they’re subject to misuse which highlights the need for potential users to exercise caution when interacting with websites under this TLD.
Sources:
1. https://icannwiki.org/.science
2. https://domainnamewire.com/2015/02/23/famous-four-speaks-on-record-about-the-validity-of-its-50000-new-tld-registrations/
3. https://www.spamhaus.org/statistics/tlds/
4. https://www.101domain.com/science.htm
