What Are Custom TLDs?
Custom TLDs enable experimental innovation with flexible architecture for specialized applications and cutting-edge use cases. These support technical experimentation, unique solutions, and future-ready designs that may shape the future of domains. Custom TLDs provide tech companies, innovators, and research organizations the opportunity to create purpose-built namespaces for experimental technologies, cutting-edge applications, and novel use cases that don't fit traditional TLD categories.
Innovation Focus
Cutting-edge technology and experimental features. Pioneer new technologies and push the boundaries of what's possible with domain names through experimental implementations.
Flexible Architecture
Adaptable technical architecture for custom solutions. Design and implement specialized DNS configurations, security protocols, and technical infrastructure tailored to your unique requirements.
Technical Experimentation
Testing new technologies and DNS innovations. Create controlled environments for testing emerging technologies, novel DNS features, and experimental internet protocols.
Developer Tools
Integrated developer tooling and APIs. Build custom tooling, developer resources, and technical documentation platforms with domain names designed for software development workflows.
Future-Ready
Forward-compatible design for emerging use cases. Design your TLD with flexibility to accommodate unforeseen technologies, evolving standards, and future innovation requirements.
Custom Solutions
Tailored solutions for unique use cases. Solve specific technical challenges or address niche market needs with purpose-built domain infrastructure designed for your exact requirements.
Unique Applications
Support for novel domain use cases. Enable innovative applications of DNS technology beyond traditional web addressing, including identity systems, decentralized networks, and IoT device management.
Research Platform
Foundation for research and innovation. Establish a living laboratory for DNS research, internet governance studies, and cutting-edge networking experiments.
Custom TLDs in Action
See how innovators use their TLDs to build the future of technology.
**For experimental and custom applications** - Used by technology companies and research organizations for experimental projects, cutting-edge applications, and innovative use cases that push the boundaries of traditional domain naming.
**For development and technical projects** - Adopted by Google and the developer community for development tools, technical documentation, API endpoints, and software development workflows with built-in HTTPS requirements.
**For testing and experimental use** - Used by software developers, QA teams, and researchers for testing environments, experimental deployments, and validation scenarios without affecting production systems.
**For cutting-edge experiments** - Research institutions and innovation labs use .experimental for prototype projects, emerging technology demonstrations, and experimental applications exploring new possibilities.
**For beta and early access programs** - Technology companies use .beta for beta testing programs, early access releases, pre-launch applications, and user acceptance testing environments with dedicated namespaces.
**For research and innovation labs** - Corporate R&D labs, academic research institutions, and innovation centers use .lab to showcase research projects, experimental technologies, and cutting-edge innovations.
**For prototyping and proof-of-concept work** - Design teams, product developers, and innovation groups use .prototype for proof-of-concept projects, prototype demonstrations, and early-stage product development.
**For sandboxed development and testing** - Development teams use .sandbox for isolated testing environments, development sandboxes, experimental deployments, and safe spaces for trying new ideas without production impact.
The 2026 Application Window
ICANN opens applications for new Custom TLDs from April 30 to August 12, 2026. This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity.
Investment
$389,000
Application/Delegation Costs. Includes $227,500 ICANN application fee; paid as per payment schedule.
$95,800/year
Ongoing Annual Costs. Includes $25,800 ICANN registry fee plus variable fees.
Timeline
18-36 months
From application submission to TLD delegation, including evaluation, technical and financial reviews, potential contention resolution, and final contract execution.
Target Market
Tech Innovators
Focus on experimental applications, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative use cases. Create a specialized namespace for technology experimentation and custom solutions.
Revenue
Unlimited Potential
Ongoing revenue from domain registrations, renewals, premium domain sales, and value-added services. Your TLD operates as a sustainable business with scalable income potential while serving the innovation community.
Model Your Custom TLD
Use our Custom TLD Calculator to analyze revenue projections, break-even analysis, and growth modeling for your experimental domain extension. Model registration scenarios, premium domain pricing for technical applications, and adoption rates.
Launch Custom TLD CalculatorReady for Your Custom TLD?
The 2026 application window is your opportunity to establish your experimental namespace and pioneer the future of domain technology. Secure your custom TLD before other organizations claim your innovative niche.