Anyone can buy a .org domain. There are no restrictions in place.

You can register a .org domain for an initial period of 1-10 years. After this period has passed, you will need to renew the domain.

Simply use the domain search bar at the top of this page and enter the name of your choice. A new window will open, and you will immediately see if the name you want is still free. If the name of your choice is not available, our system will automatically show you some options that are still free instead.

Yes, this is possible for this extension. You can enable this option when you purchase a domain through the Openprovider control panel.

You can easily renew your domain through the Openprovider control panel. You will receive multiple reminders by email when your domain is due to be renewed. Another option is to turn on the auto-renew feature in the control panel, which ensures that your domain is automatically renewed as long as you have sufficient balance on your account.

.org domain names should be between 3-63 characters in length. They may contain letters (a-z), numbers (0-9) and hyphens. Internationalized domain names are supported for various languages. You can find a full overview of these here.

Your .org domain will be renewed automatically if you have the auto-renew feature turned on and if you have enough balance in your account. If your domain is expired, you have 40 days to restore your domain for free before it is deleted.

History of the .org domain

The .org domain was introduced in January 1985 as one of the original top-level domains (TLDs) in the Domain Name System (DNS) of the internet. The primary aim was to create a space for organisations that did not fit into the commercial (.com), educational (.edu), or governmental (.gov) categories. Initially managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), it was later transferred to the Public Interest Registry (PIR) in 2003, which continues to oversee its administration. Over the years, the .org domain has become synonymous with credibility, trust, and a commitment to serving the public interest. Its history reflects the evolving landscape of the internet, where the need for a distinct identity for non-profit and mission-driven entities remains critical. Today, .org domains are utilised by a wide array of organisations, from grassroots movements to well-established international bodies.

Purpose and use cases

The primary purpose of the .org domain is to serve as a reliable and recognisable space for organisations dedicated to public service, advocacy, and community support. Initially intended for non-profit entities, it has expanded to include a variety of mission-driven organisations, including charities, educational institutions, and cultural groups. However, the .org domain is not restricted to non-profits alone. Many for-profit businesses and social enterprises also choose .org to convey a sense of trustworthiness and social responsibility. Typical use cases for .org domains include hosting websites for fundraising, informational resources, volunteer coordination, and advocacy campaigns. From local community groups to global NGOs, the .org domain offers a platform to amplify their message and engage with stakeholders effectively. Its versatility and association with integrity make it an appealing choice for any entity looking to build a genuine and impactful online presence.

The .org domain is ideally suited for organisations and individuals committed to public interest and community service. Non-profit organisations, charities, and advocacy groups often opt for .org to signal their mission-driven focus. Educational institutions, open-source projects, and cultural institutions also find .org to be an appropriate choice, reflecting their dedication to knowledge sharing and public enrichment. Additionally, professional associations, clubs, and civic groups use .org to create a trustworthy online presence. Even for-profit companies with a strong emphasis on corporate social responsibility or community engagement can benefit from using a .org domain, as it helps them align with values of integrity and public service. Solo entrepreneurs and social enterprises aiming to create a positive impact may also choose .org to establish credibility and trust. In essence, any entity that prioritises ethical practices, transparency, and community welfare can make effective use of a .org domain.

Trust and credibility

One of the most significant benefits of a .org domain is the inherent trust and credibility it conveys. The .org domain is widely recognised as a hallmark of integrity and commitment to the public good. This perception stems from its historical association with non-profits, educational institutions, and other mission-driven organisations. When users encounter a .org website, they are more likely to view it as a reliable source of information and a trustworthy entity. This credibility can be particularly advantageous for organisations looking to build a strong online reputation, gain support, or solicit donations. Even for-profit businesses can benefit from a .org domain by signalling their dedication to ethical practices and social responsibility. In an era where online scams and misinformation are rampant, the credibility associated with a .org domain can help organisations stand out as beacons of trustworthiness and authenticity.

SEO advantages

Using a .org domain can offer several SEO advantages for your website. Search engines like Google often regard .org domains as authoritative and trustworthy, which can positively influence your site's ranking in search results. This is particularly beneficial for non-profit organisations, educational institutions, and other mission-driven entities aiming to increase their online visibility. The trust associated with .org domains can lead to higher click-through rates, as users are more likely to click on a .org link when searching for reliable information. Additionally, .org domains are often linked to high-quality content and reputable sources, further boosting their SEO performance. While the domain extension alone won't guarantee top rankings, it can complement a well-executed SEO strategy. By choosing a .org domain, you not only enhance your site's credibility but also position it for better search engine performance, helping you reach a wider audience and achieve your organisational goals.

Global recognition

The .org domain enjoys global recognition, making it a powerful asset for organisations with an international reach. Regardless of geographical location, internet users worldwide associate .org websites with credible and mission-driven entities. This universal recognition can help organisations build trust and foster connections beyond their local communities. For international non-profits, NGOs, and advocacy groups, a .org domain can serve as a unifying digital identity, facilitating cross-border collaboration and support. Furthermore, the .org extension is not tied to any specific country, allowing organisations to project a neutral and inclusive image. This global appeal is particularly advantageous for campaigns and initiatives that aim to address global issues such as human rights, environmental sustainability, and public health. By leveraging the widespread recognition of the .org domain, organisations can enhance their visibility, attract a diverse audience, and amplify their impact on a global scale.

Choosing the right registrar

Choosing the right registrar is a crucial step when registering a .org domain. A registrar is an entity accredited to manage the reservation of domain names. It's essential to select a reputable and reliable registrar to ensure a smooth registration process and ongoing support. Start by researching different registrars to compare their pricing, services, and customer reviews. Look for registrars that offer transparent pricing without hidden fees, as well as value-added services such as privacy protection, email hosting, and website building tools. Additionally, consider the registrar's customer support options. Opt for one that provides 24/7 support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat. It's also beneficial to choose a registrar with a user-friendly interface for managing your domain settings. By carefully selecting the right registrar, you can secure your .org domain with confidence and ensure your website's long-term success.

Cost considerations

When registering a .org domain, cost considerations play a significant role in the decision-making process. The cost of a .org domain can vary depending on the registrar you choose and the additional services you require. Generally, the initial registration fee for a .org domain ranges from £7 to £15 per year. However, it's essential to look beyond the initial cost and consider renewal fees, which can sometimes be higher. Additionally, some registrars offer discounts for longer-term registrations, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to retain the domain for several years. Be mindful of any extra costs for services like domain privacy protection, which can add to your overall expenditure. It's also worth considering the potential costs of transferring your domain to another registrar if you're not satisfied with the initial service. By thoroughly evaluating all cost aspects, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your budget and needs.

Registration process

The registration process for a .org domain is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps. First, choose a reputable registrar that meets your requirements in terms of cost, services, and support. Once you've selected a registrar, use their domain search tool to check the availability of your desired .org domain. If your chosen name is available, proceed to add it to your cart. Next, you'll be prompted to provide your contact details, including your name, address, and email. This information is essential for domain registration and will be included in the public WHOIS database unless you opt for privacy protection. After entering your details, review and choose any additional services, such as email hosting or website building tools. Finally, complete the payment process to secure your .org domain. Once payment is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email, and your domain will be ready for use.

Renewal and expiry

Managing the renewal and expiry of your .org domain is crucial to maintaining uninterrupted access to your website. .org domain registrations are typically valid for one year, although longer terms are also available. It is essential to renew your domain before it expires to prevent any downtime or loss of ownership. Most registrars offer automatic renewal services, which can be a convenient way to ensure your domain remains active. However, it's wise to keep track of your renewal dates and confirm that your payment information is up to date. If your domain expires, there is usually a grace period during which you can renew it without incurring additional fees. After this period, your domain may enter a redemption phase, where higher fees apply, and eventually, it may be released back to the public for registration. To avoid these complications, set reminders for manual renewals or utilise automatic renewal features provided by your registrar.

Domain transfers

Transferring your .org domain to a different registrar can be necessary for various reasons, such as better pricing, superior customer service, or additional features. The domain transfer process involves several steps to ensure security and continuity. First, ensure your domain is unlocked by accessing your current registrar's management panel. You will need to obtain an Authorisation Code (EPP code) from your current registrar, which is required for the transfer. Next, initiate the transfer process with the new registrar by providing the Authorisation Code and confirming other relevant details. The new registrar will then coordinate with your current registrar to complete the transfer, which typically takes five to seven days. During this period, ensure that your contact information is up to date to receive any necessary verification emails. It's also advisable to initiate the transfer well before your domain's renewal date to avoid any disruptions. Once completed, your domain will be managed under the new registrar's system.

Security best practices

Ensuring the security of your .org domain is paramount to protecting your online presence and reputation. Start by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) with your registrar to add an extra layer of security to your account. This requires a second form of verification, making it harder for unauthorised individuals to gain access. Regularly update your passwords and opt for strong, unique combinations that include letters, numbers, and special characters. It's also wise to enable domain lock to prevent unauthorised domain transfers. This feature ensures that any transfer requests must be manually approved. Additionally, monitor your domain status and WHOIS information periodically to detect any suspicious activity or unauthorised changes. Consider opting for domain privacy protection to keep your personal contact information hidden from public WHOIS listings. By following these security best practices, you can safeguard your .org domain and maintain the integrity of your website and organisation.

Non-profit organisations

Non-profit organisations have long been the primary users of .org domains, leveraging the extension to build trust and credibility. One notable example is Wikipedia, the world's largest online encyclopaedia, which operates under the domain wikipedia.org. The .org extension reinforces Wikipedia's mission of providing free, reliable information to the public. Another successful case is the American Red Cross, which uses redcross.org to facilitate disaster relief efforts and coordinate donations. The .org domain underscores the charity's commitment to humanitarian aid, encouraging public trust and support. Similarly, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) at worldwildlife.org effectively uses its domain to advocate for environmental conservation and engage with supporters worldwide. These examples demonstrate how non-profit organisations utilise .org domains to enhance their online presence, foster community engagement, and drive their missions forward. The .org extension continues to be a powerful tool for non-profits aiming to make a positive impact on a global scale.

Educational institutions

Educational institutions also benefit significantly from using .org domains, as they convey a sense of authority and commitment to knowledge dissemination. One prominent example is Khan Academy, which operates under khanacademy.org. This online educational platform provides free, high-quality educational resources to students worldwide, leveraging the trust associated with the .org domain to attract and retain users. Another successful case is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's OpenCourseWare initiative, found at ocw.mit.edu. This project offers free access to course materials from MIT, promoting the institute's mission of advancing education globally. The .org domain helps establish credibility and underscores the educational value of the content provided. Additionally, EdX, a massive open online course (MOOC) provider created by Harvard and MIT, uses edx.org to offer courses from top universities and institutions. These examples highlight how educational institutions use .org domains to enhance their reputations, expand their reach, and fulfil their educational missions.

Online communities

Online communities have effectively utilised .org domains to foster engagement, trust, and collaboration among their members. A notable example is Reddit, the popular social news aggregation and discussion website, which operates under redditinc.com but redirects advocacy and non-profit initiatives to reddit.org. This domain helps distinguish their community-focused efforts from their commercial activities. Another successful example is Mozilla, the organisation behind the Firefox browser, which uses mozilla.org to promote open-source software and internet freedom. The .org domain reinforces Mozilla's commitment to transparency and community-driven development. Additionally, Archive.org, operated by the Internet Archive, serves as a digital library offering free access to a vast collection of books, movies, software, and web pages. This platform relies on the .org domain to establish credibility and trust in its mission to preserve digital content for public use. These examples demonstrate how online communities can leverage .org domains to build strong, engaged, and trustworthy platforms.