What is .cc domain? The .cc domain name, initially designated as the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, has evolved into a versatile and widely used extension globally. While it was originally intended to serve a specific geographic area, the .cc domain is now embraced by businesses, individuals, and organizations around the world for its simplicity and flexibility. In this article, VinaHost will explore everything you need to know about the .cc domain, including its origins, advantages, potential drawbacks, and practical considerations for registration.

1. What is .CC domain?

The .cc domain is a top-level domain (TLD) that originally was designated for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a territory of Australia. However, it has become popular for general use beyond its geographic designation. The .cc domain is often chosen for various types of websites due to its brevity and flexibility.

What you need to know about.cc domain names:

Geographic origin: Officially assigned to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, but its use is not restricted to this territory.
Popularity: Frequently used by businesses, organizations, and individuals due to its simplicity and availability.
Branding: The .cc extension is often used creatively in branding, as it can stand for various meanings like “Creative Commons” or “Corporate Communication.”
Availability: It is generally available for registration by anyone worldwide, not limited to entities within the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

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2. A Brief History of .cc domain

With a foundational understanding of .cc domain meaning, let’s examine a key characteristic: its history.

What is .CC domain name — *The .cc domain is a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) originally designated for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a small Australian territory.*

The .cc domain name has an interesting history that reflects its transition from a geographic designation to a widely used general-purpose top-level domain (TLD). Here’s a brief overview:

1997: The .cc domain name was introduced as a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a remote territory of Australia. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) was responsible for managing it, as with other ccTLDs.

Early 2000s: The .cc domain name started gaining popularity beyond its geographic origin. Its short and memorable nature made it appealing for general use. During this period, various businesses and individuals began registering .cc domains.

2001: The Cocos (Keeling) Islands domain registry was managed by a company named Global Domain International (GDI), which helped promote the .cc domain name to a broader audience.

2006: The .cc domain name was transferred to VeriSign, a major domain registry provider, which further facilitated its widespread adoption. VeriSign’s management brought more robust infrastructure and marketing support, increasing the domain’s visibility and usage.

Today: The .cc domain name is used globally for a wide range of purposes. It is popular for its flexibility, availability, and ease of use, often chosen for creative branding, businesses, and personal websites.

Despite its origins as a country-specific domain, the .cc extension has become a versatile and widely recognized option for domain registration.

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3. The Advantages and Disadvantages of .CC domain

While the .cc domain name offers several advantages such as versatility and availability, it also has some drawbacks that should be considered, especially in terms of perceived professionalism and SEO implications.

3.1. Advantages

Versatility: The .cc domain name is not restricted to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands and is available for general use. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of purposes, including business, personal, and creative websites.
Short and memorable: With only two characters, the .cc domain is concise and easy to remember. This can be advantageous for branding and making a website more accessible.
Availability: Because it is not as widely used as some other TLDs like .com or .net, there is a higher likelihood of finding a desired domain name available with a .cc extension.
Creative branding: The .cc extension can be creatively utilized to form memorable domain names or abbreviations. For instance, it can stand for “Creative Commons,” “Customer Care,” or other phrases relevant to a brand.
Cost-effective: .cc domain names are often competitively priced, making them an affordable option for those seeking a cost-effective domain solution.

3.2. Disadvantages

Perception of unprofessionalism: Some people may view .cc domain names as less professional compared to more traditional TLDs like .com or .org. This perception could impact credibility, particularly for businesses aiming for a high level of professionalism.
SEO limitations: While TLDs themselves do not directly impact search engine rankings, the familiarity and trust associated with more common TLDs can influence user behavior and perceived legitimacy, potentially affecting SEO.
Less familiarity: The .cc domain name is not as widely recognized as some other TLDs, which could lead to confusion or difficulty in establishing a strong online presence compared to more established extensions.
Potential misinterpretation: Depending on the context, the .cc extension might be misinterpreted or confused with other TLDs, which could create branding challenges or issues with user recognition.
Limited local relevance: Since .cc is a country code TLD for a specific territory, it may not resonate with local audiences if the website is targeting a regional market or demographic unrelated to the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Also read: [2024] What is Domain Forwarding? | Everything you need to know

4. Who Should Use a .cc Domain?

Now that you understand what is the .cc domain and what are the advantages and disadvantages of .CC domain, let’s delve into an important aspect: who should use it.

A .cc domain can be a good choice for various users depending on their needs and goals. Here are some types of users and scenarios where a .cc domain name might be appropriate:

Startups and small businesses

Startups and small businesses are ideal candidates for a .cc domain. With the high demand for .com domains, many businesses find that their preferred names are already taken. A .cc domain name often has more options available, allowing businesses to secure a memorable name without sacrificing brand identity.

Additionally, .cc domains are typically more affordable than many traditional TLDs, making them an attractive option for new businesses looking to create a professional online presence without a large budget.

Creative and branding projects

Creative projects and portfolios can also benefit greatly from a .cc domain name. Artists, designers, photographers, and other creatives can use this domain to add a unique touch to their online presence, making their sites memorable and distinctive. The short and modern feel of the .cc domain aligns well with the aesthetics of creative fields, allowing creatives to showcase their work with a sleek, minimalist approach that differs from conventional extensions.

Tech and innovation companies

Tech and innovation companies, especially those focusing on cutting-edge projects, can leverage a .cc domain name to emphasize their innovative approach. The .cc extension has a modern, non-traditional reputation, making it appealing to technology companies that want to establish a distinct, forward-thinking brand. This differentiation from more traditional extensions can give tech companies an edge in standing out in a competitive industry.

Non-profit organizations and causes

Community and nonprofit organizations may find that .cc is a fitting extension for their missions. The “cc” in .cc can be interpreted as “community connection,” which aligns well with community-focused projects and nonprofits. For organizations that want an alternative to the traditional .org domain name, .cc provides flexibility and a professional appearance while standing out as a memorable and mission-aligned choice.

International or global brands

A .cc domain name is well-suited for businesses with international or global audiences. Unlike some country-specific domains, .cc is widely recognized and used around the world, making it a versatile choice for brands with international ambitions. This adaptability allows businesses to appeal to a broad audience without signaling a connection to a particular region, fostering a more inclusive and accessible online presence.

Also read: [2024] What is .biz domain? | Overview of domain names .biz

5. How to Register a .cc Domain?

5.1. Choose a domain name

Brainstorm and research: Decide on a domain name that reflects your brand, business, or personal identity. Consider factors such as relevance, simplicity, and memorability.
Keep it short and simple: Aim for a domain name that is easy to remember and type. Avoid complex spellings or long phrases.
Incorporate keywords: If possible, include relevant keywords that align with your website’s content or purpose.
Check for trademarks: Ensure that the domain name does not infringe on any trademarks or copyrights to avoid legal issues.

In this part we show you how to register a .cc domain name at VinaHost. VinaHost is a well-regarded Vietnamese domain registrar and server, cloud, email, web hosting provider, offering a range of services tailored to both local and international customers.

Our domain registration services cover a wide array of extensions, from common TLDs like .com and .net to country-specific options like .vn and .cc. VinaHost’s user-friendly platform allows clients to manage their domains easily, including DNS configurations, privacy protection and seamless transfer processes.

Known for transparent pricing, VinaHost often provides competitive rates and promotions on domain registrations and renewals. We are also recognized for our 24/7 customer support in both Vietnamese and English, which helps customers with domain setup, troubleshooting, and general management, making them a reliable choice for those seeking a straightforward and locally supported domain solution.

VinaHost domain pricing

Domain	New Registration	Renewal fee	Transfer fee	Register	Transfer
.com	$12.50 / year	$16.25	$16.25	Register	Transfer
.com.co	$13.25 / year	$13.25	$13.25	Register	Transfer
.cc	$17.50/ year	$17.50	$17.50	Register	Transfer
.net	$18.50 / year	$19.25	$19.25	Register	Transfer
.org	$15.50 / year	$17.00	$17.00	Register	Transfer
.biz	$19.00 / year	$21.00	$21.00	Register	Transfer
.info	$27.25 / year	$28.50	$28.50	Register	Transfer
.top	$3.00 / year	$8.50	$8.50	Register	Transfer
.name	$12.50 / year	$12.50	$12.50	Register	Transfer
.mobi	$35.00 / year	$36.50	$36.50	Register	Transfer
.de.com	$32.50 / year	$32.50	$32.50	Register	Transfer
.today	$26.00/ year	$28.50	$28.50	Register	Transfer
.xyz	$3.00 / year	$18.00	$18.00	Register	Transfer
.ws	$38.00 / year	$39.50	$39.50	Register	Transfer
.guru	$44.50 / year	$44.50	$44.50	Register	Transfer
.site	$33.00 / year	$34.25	$34.25	Register	Transfer
.tv	$40.75 / year	$40.75	$40.75	Register	Transfer
.online	$38.25 / year	$41.75	$41.75	Register	Transfer
.cloud	~~$29.75/ year~~ $2/ year	$29.75	$29.75	Register	Transfer
.space	$27.5/ year	$27.5	$27.5	Register	Transfer

5.2. Check availability

Use a domain search tool: Visit https://vinahost.vn/en/cheap-domain-registration-vietnam/ and use VinaHost’s domain search tool to check if your desired .cc domain name is available.

Consider alternatives: If your preferred domain name is taken, explore variations or alternative names. Many registrars will suggest available alternatives if your initial choice is unavailable.

Verify domain status: Ensure that the domain is not already registered and is not in use by checking its status on WHOIS databases if needed.

5.3. Complete the registration process

Provide contact information: Enter your contact details (name, address, email, and phone number) as required by the registrar. This information will be associated with the domain’s WHOIS record.

Select a registration period: Choose the length of time for which you want to register the domain. Most domains can be registered for 1 to 10 years.

Review and pay: Review your domain registration details and complete the payment. The cost of .cc domains varies by registrar and registration period.

Confirm registration: After payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Follow any additional instructions to verify your registration and complete the setup.

Also read: [2024] What is .name domain? | Everything you need to know

6. FAQs

6.1. What does “cc” stand for in a .cc domain?

In the context of the .cc domain name, “cc” stands for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a territory of Australia. The domain was originally intended as a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for this specific geographic location.

However, the .cc domain name has evolved beyond its initial geographic designation and is now used for a wide range of purposes globally. The “cc” in .cc can also be creatively interpreted in various ways depending on the context, such as “Creative Commons,” “Customer Care,” or other phrases, making it versatile for different uses.

6.2. Can I use a .cc domain for my business website?

Yes, you can absolutely use a .cc domain name for a business website! While .cc was originally the country code for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, it has become popular globally, especially for businesses, startups, and creative ventures looking for short, unique domain names.

Using a .cc domain name can be beneficial if:

Your preferred .com is taken: .cc offers an alternative with similar memorability.
You’re targeting a specific niche: It’s popular in creative and tech industries due to its modern, distinctive look.
You want a shorter, brandable URL: If you can’t find a short .com domain, .cc offers more availability.

However, you should note that some customers may still be more familiar with .com, so if customer recognition is critical, consider this in your decision.

6.3. Are .cc domains more expensive than other domain extensions?

Yes, .cc domain names are often slightly more expensive than common extensions like .com or .net. While pricing varies by provider, .cc domains tend to have a higher base price due to their niche appeal and relative rarity. Factors that can affect the price include:

Demand: Since .cc is less common, some registrars price it higher for branding and uniqueness.
Renewal fees: .cc domain names may also have higher renewal fees compared to .com or .net, so it’s good to check both initial and renewal costs.
Registrar pricing: Pricing can vary widely across registrars; some may offer discounts or promotions for .cc domain names.

If you’re looking for a distinctive, memorable name and are okay with a slightly higher investment, a .cc domain name can be worth it for its uniqueness.

Also read: What is .info.vn domain? | Overview of domain names .info.vn

6.4. Is it difficult to register a .cc domain?

What is .CC domain name

No, registering a .CC domain is generally not difficult. The process is similar to registering any other domain extension.

You’ll typically need to:

Choose a domain name: Select a name that is available and relevant to your website or business.
Check availability: Use a domain registrar’s search tool to see if the domain is available.
Create an account: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to create an account with the domain registrar.
Provide information: You’ll be asked to provide your personal or business information, including your name, address, and contact details.
Pay the fee: Complete the payment process to finalize the registration.
Most domain registrars have a user-friendly interface that guides you through the registration process step-by-step.

6.5. Is it possible to transfer a .cc domain to a different registrar?

Yes, you can transfer a .cc domain name to a different registrar, as long as certain conditions are met. Here’s what you typically need to complete the transfer:

Unlock the domain: Make sure your .cc domain name is unlocked with your current registrar. Domains are often locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers.
Obtain the authorization code (EPP Code): Request the transfer authorization code from your current registrar. This code is essential for verifying the transfer request with the new registrar.
Check domain age and status: Most registrars require that the domain has been registered for at least 60 days and is not in a “pending delete” or “redemption” status.
Initiate the transfer with the new registrar: Start the transfer process with your chosen new registrar. You’ll need to enter the authorization code and may have to confirm the transfer via email.
Pay transfer fee: A transfer fee may apply, which usually includes a one-year renewal of your domain.

The transfer can take several days to complete, depending on both registrars’ policies.

6.6. Are there any restrictions on using a .cc domain?

No, there are generally no specific restrictions on using a .cc domain name. The .cc extension is available for public registration without special requirements, making it accessible for individuals, businesses, organizations, and creative projects worldwide.

However, like all domains, .cc domain names are subject to the general terms and conditions of the registrar or registry, which typically include:

Compliance with content guidelines: You must not use the domain for illegal, abusive, or prohibited content.
Intellectual property respect: Avoid infringing on trademarks or copyrighted names.
Accurate registration information: Providing accurate contact information is usually required for domain registration.

Otherwise, you’re free to use .cc domain names for any legitimate purpose, from business websites to personal projects.

6.7. What is the difference between .cc and .com domains?

Both .cc and .com domains have their own advantages and use cases, depending on your specific needs and goals.

.cc Domain: More flexible and often more affordable, with less perceived professionalism and lower availability of premium names. Suitable for various global uses.
.com Domain: Highly popular, seen as more professional, and has more established credibility. Often more expensive and competitive in terms of domain availability.

Here’s a table outlining the key differences between .cc and .com domains:

Feature	What is a .cc domain	what is a .com domain
Origin	Country code for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands	Generic top-level domain (gTLD)
Purpose	Originally for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, now used globally	Intended for commercial entities but used broadly for various purposes
Popularity	Less popular compared to `.com`	Highly popular and widely recognized
Availability	Often more availability for desired names	Highly sought after, many names are taken
Cost	Typically more affordable	Generally more expensive, especially for premium names
Perception	May be seen as less professional	Viewed as highly professional and credible
SEO Impact	TLD itself does not directly impact SEO, but `.com` may have higher credibility	`.com` domains may have a slight edge in credibility and trust, potentially influencing SEO
Domain Management	Similar to other domains; some registrars may offer fewer features	Widely supported with extensive features and support options
Transfer Restrictions	Fewer restrictions, but may vary by registrar	Some transfer restrictions, especially if recently registered
Privacy Protection	Available through many registrars	Available through many registrars
Renewal Rates	Often comparable or lower than `.com`	Can be higher, depending on registrar and domain popularity

Also read: [2024] What is .Cloud domain? | Register a .cloud Domain Free

7. Conclusion

By reading this article, we hope that you’ll gain a clear understanding of what is .CC domain name. We can see that the .cc domain name offers a unique and flexible option for those seeking an alternative to more traditional top-level domains. Originally designated for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, this domain extension has transcended its geographic roots to become a popular choice for businesses, personal projects, and creative ventures worldwide. Its affordability, availability, and ease of use make it an attractive option for securing a memorable and distinctive web address.

If you need to register .cc domain name, please contact us for support: