.in domain
The .in domain extension is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for India, signifying the geographic location or affiliation of a website with India.
The .in domain was introduced in 1989. It was created to represent India on the internet, allowing entities within the country to have a distinctive online presence. Initially managed by the National Centre for Software Technology (NCST), it transitioned to the National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) in 2005. NIXI then transferred management to Neusar in 2019.
As of May 2022, there were believed to be 3 million plus registered .in domains.
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Why use .in?
Geographical significance: Ideal for businesses, organizations, and individuals with a focus on Indian audiences.
Credibility: Establishes a local and credible online presence for entities operating within India.
Availability: Often, .in domains have more availability compared to generic extensions.
When to use .com vs .in?
Use .in when targeting primarily an Indian audience.
Use .com as an international or global business looking for a broader audience.
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Benefits of using a .in domain
01. Local presence:
Using a .in domain extension helps businesses establish themselves as local entities in India. This is especially beneficial for small businesses that primarily operate in a specific region or city within India.
02. Improved SEO:
Search engines tend to prioritize local websites when displaying results to users in the same location. Having a .in domain helps local businesses rank higher on SERPs in India, increasing their online visibility and attracting more potential customers.
03. Brand recognition:
The use of a .in domain name extension can be particularly advantageous for small businesses that are looking to establish themselves in the Indian market and build brand recognition among local consumers.
04. Trust and credibility:
Having a .in domain extension adds credibility to the business, especially for Indian consumers who trust and prefer local businesses.
How to register .in?
1. Select a domain registrar accredited by NIXI. Wix is one example.
2. Verify if your desired .in domain is available. You can use a domain name search tool for this.
3. Submit the required details, including contact and administrative information.
4. Complete the registration payment process.
5. Respond to any verification emails or processes required by the registrar.
Pro tip: When making a website with a website builder like Wix, domain name registration is included with a premium plan.
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.in FAQ
Can anyone register a .in domain?
Yes, .in domains are open for registration by individuals, businesses and organizations worldwide.
Are there any specific requirements for registering a .in domain?
As of now, there are no specific restrictions, and most .in domains can be registered without stringent requirements.
How long does it take to register a .in domain?
The registration process typically takes a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the registrar's procedures.
Can I transfer my existing domain to a .in extension?
Yes, domain transfers to a .in extension are possible by following the standard transfer procedures of your domain registrar.
Are there any renewal restrictions for .in domains?
.in domains can be renewed on an annual basis, similar to other domain extensions. Ensure timely renewal to avoid expiration issues and to protect your website's security.