.directory gTLD
The .directory TLD is a generic top-level domain originally introduced to provide a clear and meaningful namespace for websites that serve as organized listings, guides, or reference resources. It is open for registration by anyone and is often used by local business directories, professional networks, event listings, and informational portals.
No restrictions; open for registration by individuals and organizations worldwide
.directory Domain Overview
The .directory extension is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) in the Domain Name System (DNS). It is managed by Donuts (Extra Madison, LLC) through Identity Digital Inc.. .directory was introduced in 2013. There are currently 15,872 domains registered under this extension. Registration prices start from USD 4.50 - 23.53. DNSSEC adoption stands at 4.8%.
Registration Info
Price range based on 3 registrars. Actual prices may vary.
Security Features
- DNSSEC
- CAA Record Support
Where to Register a .directory Domain — Price Comparison
Compare .directory domain registration and renewal prices across 3 registrars. Prices are in USD and updated daily.
| Registrar | Registration | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| dynadot Cheapest | $4.50 | $22.69 | $22.69 |
| porkbun | $4.63 | $22.14 | $22.14 |
| resellerclub | $23.53 | $25.07 | $23.53 |
Prices checked April 7, 2026. Prices exclude ICANN fees where applicable and may vary by registrar promotions or contract terms.
What Is the History of .directory?
The .directory TLD was proposed by Donuts (Extra Madison, LLC) in ICANN's New gTLD Program and successfully delegated to the DNS root zone on November 19, 2013. The registry agreement was signed on September 23, 2013. It was part of a batch of 196 TLDs transferred to Identity Digital Inc. in 2018 after Donuts' assets were acquired. The TLD was designed as an open, unrestricted namespace for directory-style websites.
Did you know?
The .directory TLD serves a specific purpose in the domain ecosystem, providing users with clear context about the websites using this extension.
What Is .directory Used For?
The .directory TLD is commonly used for the following purposes:
Business directories
Local service listings
Professional networks
Event calendars
Resource hubs
Community guides
Popular Websites
How Many .directory Domains Are Registered?
Total Registrations
15,872
DNSSEC Adoption
4.8%
Alternative TLDs
If .directory doesn't meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
How Does .directory Compare?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Extension | .directory |
| Type | Generic TLD (gTLD) |
| Total Registrations | 15,872 |
| DNSSEC Adoption | 4.8% |
| Registration Price | USD 4.50 - 23.53 |
| Renewal Price | USD 22.14 - 25.07 |
| Registry Operator | Donuts (Extra Madison, LLC) through Identity Digital Inc. |
| Introduced | 2013-11-19 |
| Restrictions | No restrictions; open for registration by individuals and organizations worldwide |
How Available Are .directory Domain Names?
Registration density analysis for .directory domains by character length. Currently 13,112 domains are registered across all lengths.
Total Registered
13.1K
Peak Saturation
38.5%
1-char names
DNSSEC Adoption
5.1%
Top Provider
GoDaddy
| Length | Registered | % Full | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 char | 10 | 38.5% | |
| 2 chars | 89 | 13.2% | |
| 3 chars | 1,086 | 6.2% | |
| 4 chars | 1,280 | 0.28% | |
| 5 chars | 1,526 | 0.01% | |
| 6 chars | 1,642 | <0.01% | |
| 7 chars | 1,517 | <0.01% | |
| 8 chars | 1,537 | <0.01% | |
| 9 chars | 1,405 | <0.01% | |
| 10 chars | 1,206 | <0.01% | |
| 11 chars | 1,012 | <0.01% | |
| 12 chars | 802 | <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 .directory Domain?
Eligibility
No registration requirements. Open to all individuals and organizations worldwide.
Open Registration
The .directory TLD is available for registration through accredited domain registrars.
Registration Process
- Choose an accredited domain registrar that offers .directory domains
- Check domain availability using the registrar's search tool
- Complete the registration process and provide required information
- Pay the registration fee (typically USD 4.50 - 23.53)
- Manage your domain settings through your registrar's control panel
.directory vs Related Domain Extensions
How does .directory 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 .directory 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 .directory 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.