History of the TLD

The .red top-level domain (TLD) was introduced under ICANN’s New gTLD Program and was delegated to the DNS root zone in January 2014. It was created to provide a generic namespace for individuals, businesses, organisations, and communities seeking a domain associated with the colour red. The registry is currently managed by Identity Digital Limited.

Main Use and Industry Position

.red is a generic TLD intended for broad use by anyone wishing to associate their online presence with the symbolism or visual branding of the colour red. Common applications include marketing campaigns, creative projects, fashion, art, events, causes, and businesses where the colour red aligns with branding or messaging. There are no eligibility restrictions, making it widely accessible globally.

Comparison to Other TLDs

Compared with legacy TLDs like .com or .net, .red offers a distinctive, thematic namespace that enhances brand recognition where colour symbolism is central. Unlike more general gTLDs, .red is thematic rather than industry-specific. This can help with marketing and memorability but may be less suitable for general corporate or commercial purposes.

Pros and Cons of the TLD

Pros

• Offers a visually distinctive brand association based on the colour red

• Unrestricted registration for individuals, businesses, and organisations

• Supports marketing, creative content, and emotion-driven branding

Cons

• Less recognised by general audiences than legacy TLDs

• Thematic focus may limit relevance for traditional business purposes

• Adoption and active use are moderate compared with mainstream TLDs
  
  

Registration Criteria

.red domains are available to any individual, business, or organisation without special eligibility requirements. Standard domain registration rules apply.

Summary

.red is an active generic top-level domain established in January 2014 under ICANN’s New gTLD Program. It provides a thematic namespace centred on the colour red, supporting a wide range of creative, marketing, and brand-driven uses. Its unrestricted availability allows domain owners to enhance brand recognition for campaigns, projects, or businesses associated with the colour red.