Extension
.link
.link in short
The .link domain is an open generic top-level domain (gTLD) built for short links, link-in-bio pages and redirects. Its plain meaning makes it a natural fit for any project whose whole purpose is pointing people somewhere else.
.link at a glance
Type
gTLD — Generic top-level domain
Registry
UNR / Nova Registry
Launched
2014
Country / scope
Generic — no country
Restrictions
Open to anyone
Typical price
$12/yr
Example sites
link-in-bio tools
Source: IANA root zone database & registry data · methodology
Where to register a .link domain
Prices are indicative and set by each registrar; renewal rates may differ from first-year promotions. Links may be sponsored. tldlist.us is an independent reference and not a registrar.
What does .link mean?
The .link extension is a generic top-level domain whose meaning is right there in the word. A .link address announces that its job is to connect — to shorten a long URL, host a link-in-bio page, or redirect visitors to a destination. Launched in 2014 and now managed by Nova Registry (after originating with Uniregistry/UNR), it is purpose-built for the modern habit of sharing one tidy link that fans out to everything else.
That focus is its strength. While a generic .com can do anything, .link tells the visitor instantly what to expect: click this, go somewhere. For creators who paste a single URL across social bios, and for teams that want branded short links instead of a generic shortener, the extension does half the explaining for you.
Who uses .link?
.link is used by creators and influencers for link-in-bio hubs, by marketers for branded short URLs in campaigns, by businesses that want a memorable redirect (go.brand.link), and by anyone replacing a third-party shortener with something they control. It also appears in QR-code campaigns, where a short, on-brand link reads better than a random string.
If your site is a full destination rather than a pointer, a descriptive extension like .page or a plain .com fits better. But when the entire point is the redirect itself, .link is one of the most self-explanatory choices on the internet, alongside short repurposed ccTLDs like .ly.
.link registration rules and requirements
.link is a fully open gTLD: anyone, anywhere can register an available name with no restrictions, documentation or local presence. Registration is first-come, first-served through any accredited registrar under standard ICANN rules. Because short, brandable words are valuable here, some premium one-word .link names carry elevated pricing, but most everyday names remain affordable.
How much does .link cost?
A .link domain typically runs about $12 per year at mainstream registrars, though rates vary by registrar and any introductory promotion. Always confirm the renewal price — not just the first-year offer — before you register.
| Registrar | Typical .link price (per year) |
|---|---|
| Nova Registry accredited registrars | ~$12–18/yr |
| Namecheap | ~$12/yr |
| Porkbun | ~$14/yr |
.link pros and cons
Pros
- Self-explanatory — the word tells visitors exactly what to expect.
- Ideal for link-in-bio pages, short links and branded redirects.
- Open to anyone with no restrictions or paperwork.
- A controllable, on-brand alternative to third-party shorteners.
Cons
- Narrow purpose — overkill for a full destination website.
- Premium one-word names can be pricey.
- Less familiar and trusted than .com for a primary brand.
- Short-link abuse on some TLDs can make filters cautious of newer ones.
Example .link websites
- Creators use name.link as a single link-in-bio hub across social platforms.
- Brands run campaign redirects such as go.brand.link instead of a generic shortener.
- Marketing teams pair short .link URLs with QR codes for print and events.
.link — frequently asked questions
What is the .link domain?
The .link domain is an open generic top-level domain for short links, link-in-bio pages and redirects. Its plain meaning makes it ideal for any project whose purpose is pointing people to another destination, such as branded short URLs.
Who can register a .link domain?
Anyone, anywhere. .link is fully open with no restrictions, documentation or local-presence requirement — registration is first-come, first-served through any accredited registrar.
How much does a .link domain cost?
A .link domain typically costs around $12 per year, with most registrars in the $12–$18 range. Premium one-word names can cost more. Confirm the renewal rate before registering.
Is .link good for a link-in-bio page?
Yes. .link is one of the most fitting extensions for a link-in-bio hub because the word itself explains the page's purpose. It also lets you control your own branded short links instead of relying on a third-party service.