You have likely come across numerous country-specific top-level domains (ccTLDs), such as .in, .fr, or .us, as well as a wide range of generic top-level domains (gTLDs), including .inc, .business, and even .com.

While more than 1,500 TLDs are available, this article specifically focuses on the one ccTLD that has been the talk of the town lately. That’s right, the .IO domain extension. The popularity of .IO Domain and Hosting have significantly increased among tech startups in the recent years.

If you are looking to search for Domain Names, particularly those with a technology focus, the .IO extension might just be what you should consider.

What is The .IO Domain Extension?

Similar to other top-level domains, the .IO domain offers versatility and can be used for personal and professional purposes. 

Interestingly, ‘IO’ or ‘I/O’ is commonly used as an abbreviation for ‘input/output.’ Due to this association, many individuals opt for a .IO after domain check as is a fitting choice for technology-focused businesses, just as a .app domain is well-suited for mobile applications.

Top Reasons Why Startups Love The .IO Domain 

• Effortless Check Domain Availability

For over 25 years, people have been searching Domain Names, resulting in over 350 million active domains on the internet. And so, finding a concise domain for your startup can be challenging. Also, you may have to pay a premium to acquire a domain from a previous owner.

Although .IO domains have also been around for some time, their popularity has recently skyrocketed, offering more opportunities for startups.

• Ease of Use

Approximately half of all email usage occurs on mobile devices. So when someone types your email address for the first time on their phone, each character becomes crucial. 

When you buy a domain with .IO extension, you tend to secure shorter and simpler domain and email addresses, minimising the chances of typos. 

For example, using an email address like [email protected] is simpler to enter accurately than yourbusinessname.”plusanotherword”@domain.com!

• Extensive Search Engine Recognition

Many country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs), originally associated with specific geographic regions, often fall behind Search Engine Optimisation due to their territory-specific nature. 

However, when it comes to .IO domains, Google and other search engines treat them as generic top-level domains (gTLDs). One thing is sure: the usage .IO extends far beyond the residents of the British Indian Ocean Territory. 

This means that .IO websites receive the same treatment as other widely recognised global domains while enjoying the advantage of a more unique and creative extension.

• Fosters Tech Community Spirit

As of June 2023, there are currently 1,125,924 registered .IO domains. This top-level domain (TLD) serves as more than just a way to indicate your brand’s category. It also signifies your alignment with trends in the technology industry.

.IO demonstrates a keen eye for detail during your Domain Name search. It showcases your attentiveness to the main aspects of your website and the selection of your domain registrar.

Conclusion

.IO domain extension is worth considering if you run a SaaS startup and find yourself torn between a lengthy, forgettable .com domain and a concise, highly memorable .io domain. 

If your target audience primarily consists of businesses, as is often the case with SaaS services, opting for a .IO domain extension can be an excellent choice for launching and strengthening your brand.