Going for .org Domain Names

The .org domain extension means organization. It is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) that is widely used in the internet's Domain Name System. In the distinctive style of most gTLDs, .org is sometimes pronounced in word form as 'dot-org' or 'dot-oh-are-gee (O R G)' when spoken. However, not all users agree on its usage. Dot-org was one of the original top-level domains, established in January 1985. It was initially intended for use by organizations that did not meet the requirements for other gTLDs. The MITRE Corporation was the first group to register a “dot-org” domain in July 1985.

Anyone can register a .org domain though. There are no requirements for registration, really. The domain was usually recommended for use by individuals, although .name and .info are now the more preferred alternatives. The .org TLD has been operated since January 1, 2003 by Public Interest Registry, who took over from VeriSign Global Registry Services, a division VeriSign. Even though organizations anywhere in the world can register .org domains, many countries have a second-level domain with a similar purpose under their own country code. Such second-level domains are typically of the form .org-.xx or .org.xx, where xx is the country initials used over the world wide web. Registrations are processed through accredited registrars.

The .org domain is mostly associated with non-profit organizations. In addition to its wide use in the charitable field, it is frequently used by the open-source movements. It is almost the opposite of the.com domains, which is mostly used by companies and profit-based groups. Trusted across all backgrounds, ages, and nationalities, .org is where people turn to in order to find credible information, get involved, help fund causes, and support advocacy. As one of the leading domains, .org provides an unrivaled channel to share ideas, enhance lives, and advance a personal or group mission. So if you are into public service, it is best to consider, buy, and register a .org domain.

Why purchase a .org domain? Well, when you buy a .org domain, you're actually buying much more than the name. You are linking your organization to a worldwide community of mission-driven organizations that are trying to make the world a better place. By registering and being one with other .org groups, your organization is linked to a well-established brand of trust and honesty.

As one of the original top-level domains, .org became the domain of choice for organizations dedicated to serving the public interest. Today .org is considered one of the most reliable domains over the internet. Nonprofits, foundations, philanthropic movements, cultural institutions, organizations with religious, civic, arts, social, and fraternal backgrounds, health and legal services, and clubs and community volunteer groups, are part of this big community of internet users. Commercial businesses even benefit from .org domains. Registering a .org name lends credibility to the activities of a charitable arm, protects your brand name registered with other TLD’s and gives customers another path to your website.

Aside from being known for valuable information and representing worthwhile causes, .org domain is also best for online fundraising, since everyone has the connotation that every fund raising activity initiated by a .org website goes to a meaningful project for the community.