How to distinguish between top-level domain names and first-level domain names?

domain platform editor
11 Apr 2025 11:14:17 AM
In the domain name industry, top-level domains (TLDs) and second-level domains (SLDs) are common and easily confused concepts. As the number of global domain name registrations continues to grow, understanding the difference between the two
How to distinguish between top-level domain names and first-level domain names?

In the domain name industry, top-level domains (TLDs) and second-level domains (SLDs) are common and easily confused concepts. As the number of global domain name registrations continues to grow, understanding the difference between the two is of great significance to corporate brand protection and domain name investment.

What is a top-level domain (TLD)?

The top-level domain is the highest level in the domain name structure, usually located at the far right of the domain name. Common top-level domains include:

Generic top-level domains (gTLDs): such as .com, .net, .org, .xyz, etc., suitable for various purposes worldwide, among which .com is the earliest and most commercially valuable top-level domain.

Country and regional top-level domains (ccTLDs): such as .cn (China), .uk (United Kingdom), .de (Germany), usually used for business or brand display in a specific country or region.

New generic top-level domains (nTLDs): such as .app, .ai, .club, designed to provide more options for specific industries, interests or groups, have grown rapidly in recent years and have attracted market attention.

What is a first-level domain name (SLD)?

The first-level domain name refers to the part before the top-level domain name, which is usually the main part registered and used by users. For example, in the domain name example.com, "example" is the first-level domain name, and ".com" is the top-level domain name. The first-level domain name is an important part of brand building and online identity.

Example:

example.com

Top-level domain name: .com

First-level domain name: example

company.cn

Top-level domain name: .cn

First-level domain name: company

Understanding the difference between top-level domain names and first-level domain names can help companies better arrange digital assets, and also provide domain name investors with a clear basis for value judgment. With the development of the Internet, the scarcity and irreplaceability of high-quality domain names will continue to increase, and the future domain name market still has huge potential and opportunities.

Disclaimers:

Domaincn.com Committed to providing fair and transparent reports. This article aims to provide accurate and timely information, but should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Due to the rapidly changing market conditions, we recommend that you verify the information yourself and consult a professional before making any decisions based on this information.