If you registered a .co.uk, org.uk, ltd.uk, net.uk, .me.uk, or .plc.uk domain name after June 2014, it’s likely you automatically reserved the .uk version too. That’s good, because it’s best to have the .com, .co.uk and .uk version of your web address if possible. You’ll only use one, but the others can be redirected – that stops other people using them and helps avoid confusion.
Automatic reservation of .uk domains only lasts until 25th June – here’s the information you need :)
What does ‘automatically reserved’ mean?
It means you have the right to register the .uk domain by contacting the company you bought your original domain name from. Basically, you get priority to buy the .uk domain before someone else gets their hands on it.
The domain will be reserved automatically, but you still need to register/purchase if you want it.
How do I check if my .uk domain is available?
Enter your URL into the checker tool to see if the .uk version is reserved for you. For more information on your domain rights, registration or terms and conditions, contact your domain provider. But do this before 25th June!
Why buy a .uk domain?
Normally, we don’t recommend registering lots of domains, even if they’ve got your brand name in. For most companies, .com, .co.uk and .uk are all you need. The new .uk domain is shorter, sharper and more memorable – making it easier for users to search for you. But first, you need to check if it’s available…
What happens to.uk domains after 25th June 2019?
Domains not purchased before 25th June won’t be reserved anymore and will be available to the public from 1st July 2019.
If you haven’t purchased your .uk domain by then, someone else could buy it – theoretically at least. Whether someone else would want your .uk domain is another matter – although there’s a chance someone will buy it just to sell it back to you at an inflated price.
Should I buy all the domains with my brand name in?
No! Buying lots of domains is usually a waste of time, but we predict the .uk version will get more popular over time. The main benefit of registering the .uk equivalent to your existing domain is for brand protection.
I want to register my .uk domain and I have the rights - what do I do next?
Before your rights expire on the 25th June, contact your current domain registrar. They’ll be able to help you register the domain.
I am interested in a domain that is already reserved.
If the domain you’re interested in is reserved, you will have to wait until 1st July when it becomes available to the public.
