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SA's most popular top-level domains

Your TLD can impact your visibility and credibility.
Your TLD can impact your visibility and credibility.

Whether you're launching a new business, expanding your market or creating a personal website, the top-level domain (TLD) you register can significantly impact your visibility and credibility. The top five domain extensions in South Africa offer unique characteristics and benefits for local businesses. Understanding these options will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your online goals and target audience.

1. .co.za

This extension is the most widely used domain in the country and stands for "company South Africa". With over 1.25 million registrations, it's the preferred choice for businesses of all sizes.

The popularity of .co.za stems from the following:

  • .co.za has been established for many years, making it a well-known domain extension among South African businesses and consumers.
  • Local users often trust .co.za websites more than international domains, as they perceive them to be more relevant and reliable for South African content and services.
  • Although popular, there is still a lot of availability of desired names compared to other popular extensions like .com.
  • Search engines may favour .co.za domains in local search results, which could enhance visibility and click-through rates.
  • It can help businesses safeguard their brand within the local market, preventing others from using similar domain names that could confuse customers.

2. .org.za

Primarily used by non-profit organisations, .org.za is favoured by NGOs, charities and community groups.

A .org.za is advantageous because:

  • Using a .org.za domain signals that the organisation is dedicated to non-profit or charitable work, enhancing its credibility and trustworthiness among supporters and stakeholders.
  • The .za suffix indicates a strong connection to South Africa.
  • Since .org.za is specifically used for non-profits, there is generally less competition for domain names, making it easier for organisations to secure their preferred web addresses.
  • Visitors are more likely to trust and support organisations with a .org.za domain.
  • A .org.za domain helps attract and engage a specific audience interested in supporting non-profit and community-driven initiatives in South Africa.

3. .web.za

As an alternative to .co.za, .web.za is popular among small businesses and personal websites.

Its advantages include:

  • A clear South African identity while allowing flexibility for individuals, small businesses and non-commercial entities.
  • Websites can differentiate themselves from the crowd of .co.za domains, potentially making their web addresses more memorable and unique to visitors.
  • With less competition than the more popular .co.za, .web.za provides a higher likelihood of securing a desired domain name (untrademarked).
  • It naturally emphasises a strong online presence and focus, which can appeal to businesses looking to highlight their commitment to a digital-first strategy.
  • It is versatile and can be used for a wide range of website types, from personal blogs and portfolios to small business sites, etc.

4. .net.za

Originally intended for network-related entities, .net.za has expanded its user base, particularly among tech companies and ISPs.

Benefits of registering a .net.za include:

  • Local trust and credibility. Additionally, search engines may favour local domains in regional search results, improving SEO performance for businesses targeting South African audiences.
  • A higher chance of securing the desired domain name.
  • The .net.za domain conveys a modern and tech-oriented image, making it an ideal choice for companies in the digital sector.
  • While .net.za is particularly suited for tech companies, it is versatile enough to be used by a wide range of digital and network-related businesses.

5. .africa

Launched in 2017, .africa represents a pan-African online identity. While newer, it's gaining popularity among businesses with continental ambitions.

Advantages of a .africa include:

  • Using a .africa domain shows that your business or organisation is focused on serving the entire African continent, making it appealing to a wider audience across multiple countries.
  • It can help to establish your brand as a proud and integral part of the African market.
  • As a newer domain extension, .africa offers better availability for securing desirable and relevant domain names.
  • Search engines may favour region-specific domains in relevant searches, potentially improving SEO performance across the African continent.
  • It can enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of your business among African consumers.
  • It can facilitate marketing efforts that span across Africa.
  • Registering a .africa domain can align your business with broader developmental goals and initiatives aimed at fostering growth and collaboration within the African continent.

Which of the above TLDs best aligns with your identity and goals in the South African and African markets?

Visit Domains.co.za to register your perfect domain name today!


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Editorial contacts

Chantél Venter
Marketing Department (Domains)
(+27) 11 640 9700
chantel@domains.co.za