About .net domains

About .net domains

.NET is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated in the DNS root zone. The registry operator responsible for .NET is listed by IANA as VeriSign Global Registry Services. Anyone can typically register a .NET name through an accredited registrar, subject to the registry’s registration policy and ICANN consensus policies.

The domain name net is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) used in the Domain Name System of the Internet. The name is derived from the word network, indicating it was originally intended for organizations involved in networking technologies, such as Internet service providers and other infrastructure companies. However, there are no official restrictions and the domain is now a general-purpose namespace.

Who can register .net domains?

Eligibility is defined by the registry operator and its registrars. Most gTLDs are open to anyone worldwide. Many ccTLDs are also open globally; some require local presence, citizenship, or trademark rights. Always confirm current policy with the registry or your registrar.

Registration restrictions

Character rules below follow common ICANN LDH conventions. Individual registries and registrars may impose extra eligibility, length, or residency rules.

Length

1 – 63 characters (label before .net)

Can use

Letters (a–z), numbers (0–9), and hyphens (not first/last or consecutive in restricted cases)

Cannot use

Special characters (e.g. & # @) in standard LDH labels

IDNs

Varies by registry — check IDN support with the registry or your registrar

Features

Operational features (privacy, parking, protection) are registrar-level, not defined by the IANA root zone record.

Registry information

Sponsor / manager

VeriSign Global Registry Services

Registration services

http://www.verisigninc.com

WHOIS server

whois.verisign-grs.com

RDAP server

https://rdap.verisign.com/net/v1/

Root zone registration

1985-01-01

Record last updated

2026-03-10