Five years ago the .uk top level domain was released. This was an addition to the normal .co.uk top level domain that has existed for, well almost, ever.
At the time of the release, the .uk domain was reserved for the equivalent .co.uk. As an example, we had nepeta.co.uk and so were entitled to buy nepeta.uk. This reservation was only valid for five years and that five years is up on 25th June. After that anyone can buy an unclaimed .uk domain.
The .co.uk domain does not suddenly disappear, so your current domain and website are safe and will carry on being so.
What are the implications for my business?
If you buy the .uk domain, you can simply direct anyone landing there straight to your existing website.
If you do not buy the .uk version , then there are potential issues as it is on public sale which might cause you to lose business:
- Your competitor could spot that the .uk domain is free and buy it. They then direct anyone landing on that domain to their website, not yours.
- People might assume that you own the .uk and type that domain name and, if it’s not been bought, they will assume that they can’t find your business and go elsewhere.
- It might not be a competitor, but a completely different business, which would confuse your customers.
The cost of a .uk domain is about £10 per annum, so it’s not a huge cost and well worth considering if you have an established business that you need to protect.
Watch out for spam emails
Perhaps we are just being cynical, but it wouldn’t surprise me if after the deadline there are some phishing/spam emails telling you to click on the link to buy a domain or even holding people to ransom. Let’s hope not, but do be careful when reading your emails not to be to hasty to click the links!
Still confused?
Please get in touch with us if you need further help.
