Selecting a domain name can be a challenging task for both companies and webmasters. For companies, this task is made more complicated by the fact that the domain name needs to represent the brand in some way. While experts hold differing opinions on the importance of a domain name, some believe that it is crucial for a company.



In the past, choosing a domain name was simpler as fewer domain zones existed. Today, however, with new TLDs like ".store" and ".sеxy", selecting a domain name has become more complex. Several misconceptions and myths persist about domain names, but let's take a closer look at a few of the main ones.

One prevalent myth is that using the ".com" domain zone is critical for Search Engine Optimization (SEO) purposes. This myth has been around for a long time, but Google has stated that new gTLD search algorithms are equivalent to traditional domain zones' algorithms. Therefore, if two sites of equal rank and other parameters are hosted on old or new domain zones, they will receive comparable rankings in search results.

It is sometimes believed that users are hesitant to trust websites hosted in new domain zones. However, studies have shown that site quality and information content are more important for users than the site's domain zone location.

Changing to a new domain is often not a simple process. Even when redirects and other tactics are used, search engines still perceive the site as new, leading to a prolonged evaluation period.

The ".com" domain zone isn't dying; it still constitutes 39% of all registered domains, a percentage that continues to grow. Meanwhile, the popularity of new gTLDs is consistently increasing, with new websites growing to 42 million in just two years.

It is a misconception that old brands do not work well with new gTLDs. Many well-known companies such as Microsoft, Barclays, and BNP Paribas actively use the .tech and their own registered gTLDs, while real estate websites thrive in the .estate zone.

Meanwhile, the idea that certain domain zones like .fm is only suitable for radio, .tv for TV, or .dj for DJ sites, is false. Telecommunications and media companies often use these zones for their own purposes without issue.

Another common misconception is that young sites should be placed in any zone, but then moved to .com once they grow. However, since search services rank all zones almost equally, it does not make sense to move to .com. In some cases, such as for national companies whose sites exist in only one language in national zones, moving to .com might be appropriate.

Many international companies have already adopted new domain zones for their main site or side sections. Examples include Google, Microsoft, Barclays, BNP Paribas, CERN, and The Consumer Electronics Show (CES). There are tens of thousands of such companies and organizations. Don't be afraid of new domain zones and give them a try.

New domain zones are advantageous due to their lower percentage of taken domains, making it easier to choose a domain name. In some cases, the domain zone name may be incorporated into the domain name itself, reducing its length.

The SEO impact of domain zones is insignificant; however, reputation is a different matter altogether.
When it comes to trust, most people prefer the .com zone over newer zones like .xyz. This is because many scam sites utilize cheaper domain names, making .com a more trustworthy option in comparison. Despite this, there is a growing preference for unique, young domain names since they can be easily resold and are simpler to get into the top search engine results.

It's important to note that while some myths and misconceptions persist about domain names, the landscape of online presence continues to evolve. The expansion of domain zones has opened up new opportunities for businesses to find relevant and memorable domain names that align with their brand and offerings. This diversification has also empowered companies to create more specific and targeted web addresses, enhancing their digital identity and visibility.

Furthermore, the use of new gTLDs provides flexibility and creativity in domain name selection. Businesses can leverage these new options to craft unique and memorable web addresses that resonate with their audience and reflect their brand identity. Additionally, new gTLDs offer businesses the chance to find shorter and more memorable domain names in a market where most desirable .com names are already taken.

It's crucial for companies and webmasters to consider their specific branding, marketing strategies, and target audience when selecting a domain name. While the technical aspects of domain names and SEO considerations are important, the overall brand representation, user trust, and alignment with business objectives are key factors in the decision-making process.

Another important aspect to consider in the selection of a domain name is the potential impact on branding, marketing, and user experience. A well-chosen domain name can contribute to brand recognition, credibility, and memorability. Here are some additional points to consider:

1. Brand Representation: A domain name should align with the company's brand identity, values, and offerings. It should be easily associated with the business and reflect its unique selling propositions.

2. User Trust and Perception: While the domain zone is just one aspect, the overall quality of the website, content, and user experience play a significant role in building trust with visitors. Providing valuable and reliable information on the site is crucial for user engagement and trust, regardless of the domain zone.

3. Marketing and Communication: A domain name can serve as a powerful marketing tool, conveying a message about the company or its products/services. It's important to choose a domain name that supports marketing efforts and is easy to communicate verbally and in print.

4. SEO Considerations: While the choice of domain zone may not directly impact search engine rankings, other SEO factors related to domain names should not be overlooked, such as using relevant keywords and maintaining a strong backlink profile.

5. International Reach: For companies with an international presence or aspirations, choosing a domain name that resonates globally and considering country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs) for specific regions can be strategic.

Finally, it's essential for companies and webmasters to stay informed about industry trends, consumer behavior, and technological advancements related to domain names and online presence. By continuously evaluating the effectiveness of their chosen domain name and adapting to changes in the digital landscape, businesses can optimize their online branding and reach their target audience effectively.