.direct gTLD
The .direct TLD is a generic top-level domain introduced as part of ICANN's new gTLD expansion program. It is intended for general-purpose use and is open for registration by individuals and organizations worldwide. The name suggests a straightforward, no-frills online presence, making it suitable for businesses, services, or individuals seeking a clear and concise web address.
No restrictions; open for registration by any individual or organization
.direct Domain Overview
The .direct extension is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) in the Domain Name System (DNS). It is managed by Donuts (Half Trail, LLC). .direct was introduced in 2014. There are currently 12,987 domains registered under this extension. Registration prices start from USD 10.81 - 10.92. DNSSEC adoption stands at 5.4%.
Registration Info
Price range based on 2 registrars. Actual prices may vary.
Security Features
- DNSSEC
- CAA Record Support
Where to Register a .direct Domain — Price Comparison
Compare .direct domain registration and renewal prices across 2 registrars. Prices are in USD and updated daily.
| Registrar | Registration | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| porkbun Cheapest | $10.81 | $33.47 | $33.47 |
| dynadot | $10.92 | $34.35 | $34.35 |
Prices checked May 27, 2026. Prices exclude ICANN fees where applicable and may vary by registrar promotions or contract terms.
What Is the History of .direct?
The .direct domain was originally applied for by Dish DBS Corporation as a brand TLD but was blocked by a Legal Rights Objection from DirecTV. The application was later taken over by Half Trail, LLC, a subsidiary of Donuts, which successfully completed the delegation process. The domain was delegated to the root zone on July 2, 2014, and is now managed under the new gTLD program.
Did you know?
The .direct TLD serves a specific purpose in the domain ecosystem, providing users with clear context about the websites using this extension.
What Is .direct Used For?
The .direct TLD is commonly used for the following purposes:
Personal branding
Professional services
Direct-to-consumer websites
Marketing campaigns
Short URL redirection
Popular Websites
How Many .direct Domains Are Registered?
Total Registrations
12,987
DNSSEC Adoption
5.4%
Alternative TLDs
If .direct doesn't meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
How Does .direct Compare?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Extension | .direct |
| Type | Generic TLD (gTLD) |
| Total Registrations | 12,987 |
| DNSSEC Adoption | 5.4% |
| Registration Price | USD 10.81 - 10.92 |
| Renewal Price | USD 33.47 - 34.35 |
| Registry Operator | Donuts (Half Trail, LLC) |
| Introduced | 2014-07-02 |
| Restrictions | No restrictions; open for registration by any individual or organization |
How Available Are .direct Domain Names?
Registration density analysis for .direct domains by character length. Currently 11,921 domains are registered across all lengths.
Total Registered
11.9K
Peak Saturation
61.5%
1-char names
DNSSEC Adoption
5.5%
Top Provider
GoDaddy
| Length | Registered | % Full | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 char | 16 | 61.5% | |
| 2 chars | 151 | 22.3% | |
| 3 chars | 1,201 | 6.8% | |
| 4 chars | 1,200 | 0.26% | |
| 5 chars | 2,030 | 0.02% | |
| 6 chars | 1,468 | <0.01% | |
| 7 chars | 1,297 | <0.01% | |
| 8 chars | 1,189 | <0.01% | |
| 9 chars | 1,015 | <0.01% | |
| 10 chars | 804 | <0.01% | |
| 11 chars | 1,068 | <0.01% | |
| 12 chars | 482 | <0.01% |
Top DNS Providers
Updated daily from zone file analysis. Alpha density = registered / 26^length.
Compare across all TLDs →How Do I Register a .direct Domain?
Eligibility
None; open to all registrants without eligibility requirements
Open Registration
The .direct TLD is available for registration through accredited domain registrars.
Registration Process
- Choose an accredited domain registrar that offers .direct domains
- Check domain availability using the registrar's search tool
- Complete the registration process and provide required information
- Pay the registration fee (typically USD 10.81 - 10.92)
- Manage your domain settings through your registrar's control panel
.direct vs Related Domain Extensions
How does .direct compare to similar top-level domains? This comparison covers pricing, type, and availability to help choose the right domain extension.
View the full TLD Directory to browse all 1,900+ top-level domains with pricing, registration density analysis, and DNSSEC adoption rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Is This .direct Data Compiled?
DNS Checker maintains a comprehensive TLD directory covering all 1,900+ active top-level domains. The data on this page combines multiple authoritative sources to provide information not found in standard TLD listings.
Zone File Analysis
Domain registration counts and density analysis are computed daily from TLD zone files, providing accurate registration statistics rather than estimates.
DNSSEC Adoption Tracking
DNSSEC deployment percentages are measured by scanning actual DNS records across all registered domains in each TLD zone.
Registrar Price Monitoring
Registration, renewal, and transfer prices are checked hourly across multiple accredited registrars and compared automatically.
Provider Market Share
DNS provider distribution is calculated from nameserver records, showing which hosting providers serve the most domains in each TLD.
Use DNS Checker tools to inspect any .direct domain: run a full DNS health check, check DNS propagation, look up WHOIS records, or verify email authentication.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is sourced from IANA, ICANN, and respective registry operator publications, then structured and formatted with the assistance of AI. While accuracy is a priority, details such as pricing, registration requirements, and policies may change. Always verify with the official registry or an accredited registrar before making registration decisions.