.store domain
.store is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) and part of the internet's Domain Name System (DNS). It’s used primarily by businesses and individuals to create domain names that are related to online retail and eCommerce. The .store domain name extension is intended to help users easily identify websites that are involved in selling products, services or any other commerce-related activities.
The .store domain extension was introduced as a new gTLD in 2016. It’s managed and operated by the domain registry company Radix. The introduction of new gTLDs was part of an effort, by ICANN, to expand the domain name space and provide more specific and meaningful domain options to users.
As the number of websites published has exploded in recent years, competition for domains has become fiercer and the introduction of new TLDs is to reduce this competition. The .store extension was one of the gTLDs introduced to cater to the growing eCommerce and online retail industry.
Who uses .store and why?
The .store domain is popular among various entities involved in online retail and eCommerce. Here are some of the reasons why:
Online stores, retailers and companies that sell products or services online use .store domain names to establish a distinct online presence related to their core business.
Many brands and manufacturers register .store domains to create dedicated websites for showcasing and selling their products directly to consumers.
Affiliates who promote and sell products from various brands may use .store domains to create specialized sites to market those products.
Bloggers and social media influencers in the fashion, lifestyle or product review niches may use .store domains to create online stores that complement their content and provide affiliate links to products they recommend.
New businesses in the eCommerce sector may choose .store domains to signify their core business model and attract customers looking to shop online.
Learn more: Wix eCommerce
Well-known brands with .store domains
The following large brands have purchased .store domains:
Hanes
Emirates
Amazon
Apple
Jimmy Choo
Websites using .store domain
This revolutionary new camping product has a unique brand name to match the innovation around its product. It's use of the .store in his domain makes it clear its more than just an innovation but something to be sold and used too.
This online store is all about its unique and creative clothes and accessories. But again it's use of the .store domain emphasizes its purpose as an online store.
This online store focuses on creating and selling unique, sustainable hats. Their .store domain reveals their intent to market and sell their hats online.
This online makeup and beauty brand shows that .store domain can be used across a wide range of industries and online store types.
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Is a .store domain a safe and reliable one to use?
The safety of a .store domain, or any domain extension, is not solely determined by the extension itself but by various factors related to the specific domain and its website.
A .store domain is safe and reliable if:
It's owned and registered by a legitimate business or individual.
It represents a website with professional and relevant content.
Its website uses SSL/TLS encryption. A secure website will have "https://" in the URL, indicating that the connection between your browser and the website is encrypted.
It hasn't been reported for spam or phishing activities. Online services like Google Safe Browsing or security software may flag malicious websites or domains.
Using a .store domain is common for e-Commerce websites and businesses related to selling products but it's important to note that cybercriminals can use any domain extension for malicious purposes. Therefore, it's crucial to apply general online safety practices, such as being cautious with unfamiliar websites, not clicking on suspicious links and using up-to-date security software.
As an online store owner you should make sure that your site has robust infrastructure such as secure and safe hosting, 24/7 online security monitoring to thwart and prevent cyber attacks - check out Wix's website security features.
.store and ICANN
ICANN, or the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, is a non-profit organization responsible for managing the Domain Name System (DNS), IP address allocation as well as several other Internet-related tasks. When it comes to domain extensions like .store, ICANN plays a crucial role in overseeing the management and distribution of these top-level domains (TLDs).
When a domain extension such as .store is established, the role of the ICANN is to ensure that it follows the guidelines and standards it sets for TLDs. It manages the registration process, ensuring that domain names are unique and that the associated WHOIS information is accurate. WHOIS is a protocol used to query databases and obtain information about registered domain names, including details about the domain owner, registrar and registration dates.
A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address used to access resources on the World Wide Web/Internet. It includes the protocol (like HTTP or HTTPS), the domain name (which includes the TLD like store), and the specific path to the website on the web server. ICANN's role is to make sure that all URLs are properly structured and that the associated domain extensions adhere to established standards across the whole World Wide Web/Internet.
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How to choose between .com and .store
Choosing between a .com and a .store domain depends on the nature of your website or online presence and your specific goals. Consider the primary focus and purpose of your website. If it's a general website, blog, or personal site, .com may be a better choice. If it's primarily an online store or eCommerce platform, .store could be more suitable. Think about how you want your brand to be perceived. If the word "store" is central to your brand, a .store domain can help reinforce that identity. Think about your long-term goals. If you plan to expand your e-commerce business, a .store domain can be a strategic choice. If your website might evolve beyond e-commerce, a .com domain may offer more flexibility.
Advantages of using .com vs .store
The .com domain is the most recognized and widely used domain extension on the internet. It has a universal appeal and is trusted by users worldwide.
.com domains are versatile and can be used for a wide range of websites, including businesses, blogs, personal websites and more.
If you want to convey a professional image or if your website's content or purpose is not primarily focused on eCommerce, a .com domain may be more suitable.
Users often associate .com domains with established and credible websites, which can be an advantage in building trust.
Advantages of using .store vs .com
If your website is primarily dedicated to eCommerce, selling products or showcasing an online store, a .store domain can be a more specific and fitting choice.
A .store domain can help in creating a unique and brand-specific identity for your online store.
The .store domain can be more memorable for visitors who are specifically looking for online shopping experiences.
Ultimately, the choice between .com and .store should align with your website's objectives and the image you want to convey to your target audience.
How to register a .store domain
To register a .store domain you may need to follow all or some of the following steps:
01. Choose a domain name registrar
Select a reputable domain registrar that offers .store domain registrations. If you make a website with Wix, you can search for domain name availability, choose a domain name and register a domain name, with a premium plan.
02. Check domain name availability
Use the registrar's search tool to check if your preferred .store domain name is available. If it’s available, you can proceed to the next step.
03. Provide contact information and pay
Follow the registrar's instructions to complete the registration process. You'll need to provide your contact information and make the required payment, which is typically an annual fee.
If you choose and register a domain name through Wix, you won’t need to do anything to manage it. You’ll just need to renew its registration annually.
Learn more: Website infrastructure
.store domain extension FAQ
How much does a .store domain cost?
The cost of a .store domain can vary depending on the registrar and any additional services you choose. Prices can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per year.
Can anyone register a .store domain?
In general .store domains are open for registration by anyone on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no specific restrictions beyond those a domain registrar may set.
Is there a renewal process for .store domains?
.store domains typically need to be renewed annually to maintain ownership. Be sure to renew your domain on time to prevent it from expiring, your domain registrar or website builder should send you a reminder notice within plenty of time to renew it.
Can I transfer a .store domain to another registrar?
You can transfer your .store domain to another registrar if you wish. There may be specific procedures and fees associated with domain transfers.