Second level domain: what it is and why

The second-level domain is the part of the domain name to the left of the dot. What is on the right is already a top-level domain or, in other words, a domain extension. For example, the name of the site looks like this: regery.com, regery is the second-level domain, com is the first level domain.

To better visualize what is a second-level domain, let's give an analogy. A person has a first name and a last name. The surname emphasizes his connection to the family, clan, that is, to a certain group. The name, on the contrary, distinguishes him from the family, emphasizes his individuality. That is, John Smith is a unique John and at the same time a representative of the Smith clan. Also with websites: regery - name, com - family name.

Levels of domains

Domains are organized according to a certain hierarchy. They are made up of parts called levels. These levels are distinguished by dots.

1. Top-level domains or domain zones. They cannot be bought because they belong to a specialized organization, ICANN. They are divided into geographic and thematic. For example, .ru (Russia), .ua (Ukraine), .de (Germany), .photography, .money, .travel and others. But this division is conditional. You can register a domain .de in Ukraine.
2. Second-level domains. Registered within domain zones. Sometimes they can be considered part of a domain extension, as some registry operators limit the assignment of TLDs to second-level domains. For example, the .VC registry operator offers .COM.VC for general use, .ORG.VC for non-commercial projects, and .NET.VC for topical sites. These three examples are called country second-level domains (ccSLDs).
3. Third and subsequent level domains are rare. They are assigned to a second category name. A site owner can create a large number of addresses based on the main name. Such addresses do not need to buy. It looks like this: m.site.com/. Here the "m." - is a subdomain, which indicates that we have a mobile version.

Features of the second-level domain

Each second-level domain must be unique. This is a prerequisite for registration. Domains banana.biz and banana.com are not the same as they are registered in different domain zones.

Buy a second-level domain can individuals and legal entities. Usually registration is free form, and no additional documents, except passport, do not need to present. Although for some zones there are restrictions.

You can use short and long combinations. There is no special difference. But users better remember short names, so do not overdo it with the number of characters.

Registration of a second-level domain, as a rule, is instantaneous. The name is checked for uniqueness and compliance with the requirements of the selected coverage area. Names are registered for a certain period of time - usually a year. After the expiration date, the domain can be renewed for a fee.