.net gTLD
The .net TLD is one of the original top-level domains and remains one of the most popular domain extensions worldwide. Originally intended for organizations involved in Internet infrastructure, it is now open for registration by anyone and widely used by businesses, tech companies, and service providers.
No restrictions; open for registration by anyone
.net Domain Overview
The .net extension is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) in the Domain Name System (DNS). It is managed by VeriSign Global Registry Services. .net was introduced in 1985. There are currently 12,860,567 domains registered under this extension. Registration prices start from USD 12.52 - 14.99. DNSSEC adoption stands at 4.9%.
Registration Info
Price range based on 3 registrars. Actual prices may vary.
Security Features
- DNSSEC
- CAA Record Support
- Registry Lock
Where to Register a .net Domain — Price Comparison
Compare .net domain registration and renewal prices across 3 registrars. Prices are in USD and updated daily.
| Registrar | Registration | Renewal | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| porkbun Cheapest | $12.52 | $12.52 | $12.52 |
| dynadot | $12.52 | $12.52 | $12.52 |
| resellerclub | $14.99 | $18.99 | $14.99 |
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 .net?
The .net domain was introduced in 1985 by IANA under the leadership of Jon Postel as part of the original seven TLDs. It was originally intended for entities involved in network infrastructure, such as Internet service providers. In 2001, ICANN approved VeriSign as the exclusive registry operator, and it has been operated with continuous stability since. The .net agreement was renewed in 2011 for another six years and remains active under ICANN’s registrar system.
Did you know?
The .net TLD serves a specific purpose in the domain ecosystem, providing users with clear context about the websites using this extension.
What Is .net Used For?
The .net TLD is commonly used for the following purposes:
Internet infrastructure providers
Technology companies
Network services
Email and hosting providers
Alternative to .com for tech brands
Popular Websites
How Many .net Domains Are Registered?
Total Registrations
12,860,567
DNSSEC Adoption
4.9%
Alternative TLDs
If .net doesn't meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
How Does .net Compare?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Extension | .net |
| Type | Generic TLD (gTLD) |
| Total Registrations | 12,860,567 |
| DNSSEC Adoption | 4.9% |
| Registration Price | USD 12.52 - 14.99 |
| Renewal Price | USD 12.52 - 18.99 |
| Registry Operator | VeriSign Global Registry Services |
| Introduced | 1985-01-01 |
| Restrictions | No restrictions; open for registration by anyone |
How Available Are .net Domain Names?
Registration density analysis for .net domains by character length. Currently 7,944,184 domains are registered across all lengths.
Total Registered
7.9M
Peak Saturation
>99.9%
2-char names
DNSSEC Adoption
5.1%
Top Provider
GoDaddy
| Length | Registered | % Full | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 char | 2 | 7.7% | |
| 2 chars | 1,272 | >99.9% | |
| 3 chars | 43,563 | >99.9% | |
| 4 chars | 307,876 | 67.4% | |
| 5 chars | 593,464 | 5.0% | |
| 6 chars | 853,981 | 0.28% | |
| 7 chars | 997,244 | 0.01% | |
| 8 chars | 1,085,452 | <0.01% | |
| 9 chars | 1,085,639 | <0.01% | |
| 10 chars | 1,072,277 | <0.01% | |
| 11 chars | 998,042 | <0.01% | |
| 12 chars | 905,372 | <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 .net Domain?
Eligibility
No restrictions. Open to individuals, businesses, and organizations globally.
Open Registration
The .net TLD is available for registration through accredited domain registrars.
Registration Process
- Choose an accredited domain registrar that offers .net domains
- Check domain availability using the registrar's search tool
- Complete the registration process and provide required information
- Pay the registration fee (typically USD 12.52 - 14.99)
- Manage your domain settings through your registrar's control panel
.net vs Related Domain Extensions
How does .net 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 .net 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 .net 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.