Using a DOT NET domain

[british steve]

We run a number of websites, all of which run on either a .co.uk or .com, there is a domain that I want (very project specific) but both the .co.uk and .com have gone but the .net is still available so I am thinking or buying that instead! Having never had a site with a .net i have no idea if it makes any difference over the other 2 domains?

Anyone have any thoughts on using a .net domain for a uk site? Most visitors will come in from other sites although the new product will be launched with a major press and TV media drive to drum up business.

I did make an offer for the .co.uk and the .com but one came back with a stupid price and the other came back with a really stupid price so both are a no go.

 

[Voicebooth]

Once upon a time, .com domains were reserved for commercial purposes, whilst .net were typically for networks, ie service providers and so on. These days, it's more of a matter what domain you can get hold of without paying through the roof

There's no technical difference between different domain names, other than the root registrar authority that controls them which sometimes dictates the pricing of it when you go to things like godaddy, 1&1, etc to register them. It makes no difference to hosting whether it's a .com, .net or .co.uk.

All you have to think about is: Will people be able to remember it's a .net rather than automatically try and go to the .com one?

 

[MASSEY]

I agree with the guy above to be honest, these days companies are using all sorts of funky domains. I guess plus.net advertising on telly will have helped people understand that there is life outside of .co.uk and .com.

I've never really looked at them from an seo perspective, they just don't seem to rank all that well or maybe it is because they are less popular so less likely to show up in the serps.

 

[mit74]

Google doesn't discriminate against extensions so the .net makes little difference. Also people are generally pretty clued up on the internet these days and they know about .net and all the others. If they go to a wrong site they'll know straight away and/or probably google your business anyway.

 

[positivesparks]

Great comments above, I'd say go with the .net if it is nice and memorable and it reflects the name you want in the domain.