.us Domain Names Overview
The .us domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the United States. It is a popular choice for businesses, organizations, and individuals looking to establish a digital presence tied to the U.S. market. Unlike some country-specific domains, .us does not require local presence, making it accessible to registrants worldwide. The domain is managed by Neustar under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Commerce. With a straightforward registration process and flexible terms ranging from 1 to 10 years, .us domains are widely used for commercial, governmental, and personal websites. The extension is particularly favored by American businesses aiming to emphasize their national identity or target U.S.-based audiences.
.us Domain Names Facts
The .us domain has been operational since 1985 and is one of the oldest ccTLDs. It supports domain lengths between 3 to 63 characters, but does not offer internationalized domain names (IDNs) or sub-domains. Registration is automated, with no need for company documentation or VAT numbers. Both individuals and legal entities can register a .us domain without prior rights or an application form. Renewals can be done for 1 to 9 years, with a 30-day grace period for late renewals. Domain restoration is possible between 30 to 60 days after expiration. Transfers require an authcode, and the expiration date extends by one year upon transfer. Owner changes can be done online without additional documents.
.us Domain Names Uses
.us domains are versatile and commonly used by U.S.-based businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals. They help reinforce a local identity, making them ideal for companies targeting American customers. Government entities often use .us for official websites, while small businesses leverage it to build trust with local audiences. Personal blogs and portfolios also utilize .us domains to highlight a connection to the U.S. The lack of strict registration requirements makes it accessible for startups and entrepreneurs. Additionally, .us domains are sometimes used for regional marketing campaigns or geo-specific services. Their simplicity and recognition make them a practical choice for anyone seeking a U.S.-centric online presence.
Frequently Asked Questions for .us Domains
What is a .us domain name?
A .us domain name is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the United States. It is used by businesses, organizations, and individuals to establish a digital presence tied to the U.S. market. Unlike some ccTLDs, it does not require local presence, allowing global registrants to secure a .us domain. The domain is managed by Neustar and is regulated by the U.S. Department of Commerce. It is widely recognized and trusted, making it a popular choice for entities targeting American audiences or emphasizing their U.S. affiliation.
How do I buy a .us domain name?
To buy a .us domain name, you can register through an accredited domain registrar. The process is automated and does not require additional documentation or a local presence. Choose a registrar, check domain availability, and select a registration term between 1 to 10 years. Provide the necessary registrant details, complete the payment, and the domain is instantly activated. Some registrars may offer additional services like privacy protection or hosting. Transfers between registrars require an authcode, and the domain’s expiration date extends by one year upon transfer.
Are there requirements for .us domain name registration?
No strict requirements exist for registering a .us domain name. Unlike some ccTLDs, it does not mandate local presence, company registration, or VAT numbers. Both individuals and legal entities can register a .us domain without prior rights or an application form. The domain length must be between 3 to 63 characters, and IDNs are not supported. The registration process is fully automated, making it quick and hassle-free. However, registrants must comply with U.S. laws and policies governing domain usage, which can be reviewed at https://www.about.us/policies.
.us Registry Rules and Policies
You consent to be bound by the Registry's Terms and Conditions by registering a .us domain name. The registration, renewal, transfer, and use of domain names within this registry are governed by these terms. Before completing your registration, it is mandatory that you read these terms carefully. Your domain name may be suspended or deleted without a refund if you don't follow these terms.