Extension
.ru
.ru in short
The .ru domain is the country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Russia, operated by the Coordination Center for TLD RU/РФ. It is the standard extension for the Russian-language web and is openly registrable.
.ru at a glance
Type
ccTLD — Country-code top-level domain
Registry
Coordination Center for TLD RU
Launched
1994
Country / scope
Russia
Restrictions
Open to anyone (identity details required)
Typical price
$7/yr
Example sites
Russian sites
Source: IANA root zone database & registry data · methodology
Where to register a .ru 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 .ru mean?
The .ru extension is the official internet country code for Russia, assigned under ISO 3166-1 and administered by the Coordination Center for TLD RU/РФ. It is the dominant extension of the Russian-language internet — the “Runet” — and the default marker for Russian businesses, media, services and individuals.
.ru is one of the largest country-code domains in the world by registration volume, reflecting a big, active national internet. It is used as a plain second level (example.ru) and remains the primary choice for the Russian market, alongside the Cyrillic-script .рф domain run by the same coordinating body.
Who uses .ru?
.ru is used by Russian companies, ecommerce platforms, news and media outlets, technology services and individuals. For a business serving Russian-speaking customers, a .ru address is the natural expectation and signals local relevance within the Runet.
If your audience is global, a generic .com avoids the national framing. For the Russian-speaking market specifically, .ru is the default standard. As with any nationally-administered ccTLD, registrants should be aware that registry policy and accreditation are set by the national coordinating body and may be affected by the wider regulatory environment; it sits within the broader family of country-code domains.
.ru registration rules and requirements
.ru is open to individuals and organisations, including from outside Russia, but registrants are required to provide valid identifying information, and registrars may request verification documents in line with the Coordination Center's policies. Registration runs through accredited registrars on a first-come, first-served basis at competitive prices. Policy for .ru is set by the national coordinating body rather than by ICANN directly, so terms can change with the local regulatory environment.
How much does .ru cost?
A .ru domain typically runs about $7 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 .ru price (per year) |
|---|---|
| Accredited .ru registrars | ~$5–10/yr |
| Russian hosting providers | ~$4–8/yr |
| With verification / privacy services | added service fee |
.ru pros and cons
Pros
- Dominant, trusted extension across the Russian-language web.
- Open to individuals and organisations, including from abroad.
- Low, competitive pricing relative to many ccTLDs.
- Huge, active namespace backed by an established coordinating body.
Cons
- Requires valid identity details and possible verification.
- Policy is set nationally and may shift with regulation.
- No advantage for a worldwide, non-Russian audience.
- Geopolitical and payment considerations for some registrants.
Example .ru websites
- Russian ecommerce and technology services run primary sites on .ru.
- News and media outlets anchor their presence on trusted .ru addresses.
- Many brands pair .ru with the Cyrillic .рф domain for the Russian market.
.ru — frequently asked questions
What is the .ru domain?
The .ru domain is the country-code top-level domain for Russia, administered by the Coordination Center for TLD RU/РФ. It is the dominant extension of the Russian-language internet (the Runet) and the default choice for Russian businesses, media and individuals.
Can a foreigner register a .ru domain?
Yes. .ru is open to individuals and organisations, including from outside Russia, but registrants must provide valid identifying information and may be asked for verification documents under the Coordination Center's policies.
How much does a .ru domain cost?
A .ru domain typically costs around $7 per year, with most registrars in the $4–$10 range — low compared with many ccTLDs. Verification or privacy services may add a fee. Confirm the renewal price before registering.
What is the difference between .ru and .рф?
Both serve the Russian market and are administered by the same coordinating body. .ru is the Latin-script country code, while .рф is the Cyrillic-script (internationalised) domain. Many Russian brands register both to cover Latin and Cyrillic audiences.