Would registering domain names in the .xyz zone and similar ones be beneficial? How would search engines respond to this type of domain? Are domain zones even taken into consideration by search engines these days?
From what I gather, the registration of such domains is handled by private companies like https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.xyz. However, can these registrar companies alter the terms of service, raise renewal costs significantly, or pull support entirely - and perhaps even seize the domain - as they see fit? Will there be any assurances or guarantees in place?
For an extended period, the domain zone has not impacted the ranking of your website in search results. Therefore, if a particular zone is appropriate for your project, it's best to register and worry less about any issues such as seizure or blocking.
It's essential to note that when purchasing a domain, one should look beyond the initial price and pay attention to the renewal costs as well. For instance, a domain may cost just $1 during the first purchase but entail a renewal fee of $xхx.
It's worth mentioning that while domain zones may not impact search engine ranking, they still hold significance in areas like branding and user experience. Selecting a domain that resonates with your brand and is easy for users to remember can make a significant difference in how your website is perceived. Additionally, selecting the right registrar company is crucial as they will handle not just the registration process but also any potential issues that may arise in the future.
.XYZ: Aspirations And Unifying Force
The .xyz domain zone made its appearance in 2014 with a name that pays homage to the theory of generations by William Strauss and Neil Howe. The theory organizes people into distinct generations, including X, Y, and Z: those born from 1961 to 1981, 1982 to 2000, and in the XXI century, respectively.
The .xyz domain zone was created to unify internet users of varying age groups by bridging gaps in their views and lifestyles. Google Corporation was among the first to register a .xyz domain, reserving the address abc.xyz for Alphabet, which now owns Google itself.
By the end of 2015, over one and a half billion domains had been registered in the .xyz zone, pushing it to fourth place in terms of numbers, behind only the big names of .com, .net, and .org.
In 2017, .xyz decided to set itself apart even further by offering registrations for domains using numbers. For instance, users were allowed to register any domain name within the range of 000000.xyz to 999999999.xyz at a discounted rate. This could be useful for sites that incorporate dates or numerical designations in their addresses.
Overall, .xyz offers a unique way to stand out among other domains, making it a choice worth considering for anyone looking to establish a memorable online presence.
Registering domain names in the .xyz zone or other similar zones can be beneficial depending on your specific use case. Search engines generally treat all domain extensions equally, so there should be no negative impact on search engine rankings or visibility.
Regarding the registrar companies, they do have the ability to set their own terms of service and pricing. It is possible for them to raise renewal costs, but usually, they are regulated by industry standards and competition. In terms of seizing a domain, it is highly unlikely unless there is a violation of their terms of service, such as non-payment or illegal activities.
To ensure some assurances or guarantees, it's essential to choose a reputable registrar with a track record of good customer service and fair practices. Researching reviews and recommendations can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, it's advisable to read and understand the terms of service before registering a domain name to be aware of any potential risks or limitations. Many registrars offer additional services like domain privacy protection, which can provide further security and privacy for your domain.