Differences of ".com" and ".net" Domains

The structure of domain names came in the mid 1980's, when the high-level domain names were categorized as .com, .net, .org and .edu. Originally each designation was made with a purpose. The .com initially designated a commercial website (the reason it is so common today). The .net signified at network system, such as a technology network or a service provider. The .org stood for an organization, usually not-for-profit and .edu exclusively meant an accredited educational institute.

The .net compared today

Restrictions on the use of .net in domain names has virtually disappeared. Originally restricted to computer and technology firms, now anyone can have a .net domain name. Although maintained by a private organization, the difference between it and .com domains has basically disappeared.

Costs

The only substantial difference between .com and .net domains is the cost. When ordering a .com domain, it can cost between $10 and $30 to reserve for the year. Since .com domains remain the most popular and the default domain, they cost significantly more. A .net domain, however, costs only a few dollars a year.

Contents

Since many users purchase .com domains, finding an original web address can be daunting. The .net domain still remains wide open, so users determined to receive a certain web address can usually find it with a .net domain.

Other than popularity, no difference exists between NET and COM except cost and availability. For a new business not dependent on Internet traffic, using a NET registration saves money and time.