All TLDs / .uk / .co.uk / meaning
What does .uk / .co.uk mean?
Registry operator: Nominet UK — per the IANA root database.
Source: IANA root zone database, checked August 23, 2026.
What .uk / .co.uk is actually used for
Nominet released bare .uk alongside .co.uk in 2014 and the ambiguity never resolved. Default to .co.uk for commerce; grab both if it's cheap peace of mind.
Is .uk / .co.uk a country code or generic domain?
.uk / .co.uk is technically a country-code TLD (the ccTLD for United Kingdom), but it's widely marketed and used as a general-purpose extension. Google treats several such ccTLDs — including this one where applicable — as generic rather than geo-targeted.
Who runs .uk / .co.uk?
.uk / .co.uk is operated by Nominet UK, the registry for United Kingdom. It has been live in the official IANA DNS root since 1985.
Can anyone register a .uk / .co.uk domain?
Yes — .uk / .co.uk is open for public registration through accredited registrars. Availability of a specific name still depends on whether someone already owns it, and some ccTLDs add local-presence or ID requirements. Here’s how to check whether a specific name is taken.
Should you use it?
Our short answer: For UK-market businesses, .co.uk still outranks and out-trusts .com with British customers. For the full pros, cons, and rating, read the complete .uk / .co.uk review.