What is the difference between .uk and .co.uk TLDs?

There is no significant difference between .uk and .co.uk domain extensions. Both are top-level domains (TLDs) that can be used to register a domain name. The only real difference lies in their historical usage and intended purposes.

Why choose to use .co.uk domains?

Historically .co.uk was used as the main choice of extension when registering a domain name for use in the UK market and is still the most commonly used extension in the United Kingdom as .uk was not made generally available until 2014. The .co.uk TLD was initially created for commercial use with the “co” in .co.uk standing for “commercial”.

Why choose to use .uk domains?

The .uk domain is a relatively newer option compared to .co.uk and the general availability launch in 2014 was intended to offer a shorter and more concise extension for use in the UK market.

What other UK domain extensions are there?

• .org.uk was created for use by non-profit organisations.
• .me.uk was created for use by individuals for personal names.
• .net.uk is reserved for use by ISPs (Internet Service Providers).
• .ltd.uk is reserved for use by limited companies.
• .plc.uk is reserved for the use by public limited companies.
• .sch.uk is reserved for the use of schools.
• .ac.uk is reserved for the use of universities and colleges.
• .gov.uk is reserved for the use of government organisations.

Why was .uk not available before 2014?

It actually was generally available when .uk was originally created. However, in the mid nineties it was decided that the .uk ccTLD would switch to a hierarchical structure in an attempt to make more domains available and give users an indication of what a website is about. You can still find some domains that were registered in the early nineties prior to the introduction of the hierarchical structure such as nhs.uk, police.uk and bl.uk.

Should I use .co.uk or .uk for my website?

Both extensions are now widely used and good choices for the UK market. The choice between them really comes down to personal preference, branding, and availability. 

Author: Gavin Kimpton
A founder of Pipe Ten, Gavin has been professionally embedded in the digital sector spanning 3 decades since the original dot com boom of the late nineties. He has extensive experience in the design of many major international website launches and is a seasoned expert in the intricate world of domain registration and management. Gavin has navigated the ever-evolving landscape of internet governance, witnessing the birth of new top-level domains (TLDs) and the proliferation of domain name industry regulations. He spearheaded purely.website to be a Nominet accredited channel partner with a profound understanding of the symbiotic relationship between domain names and the broader digital ecosystem.