TLD question

[gammascalper]

I've scoured resources, but can't seem to get a definitive answer regarding the difference between co.jp and .jp, or more generally, the other .co.ccTLD and .ccTLD

I gather they are not synonymous and are entirely seperate domains.

- what is the difference?
- do all countries use .co.ccTLD as well as .ccTLD?

[Rubber Duck]

All countries have a top level ccTLD as of right, including a lot of small island states who promote them as alternative gTLDs.

Issuing second level is purely discretion for the individual countries involved. Bizarrely, the UK does not issue top level ccTLD, but most other countries do. Many also offer second level. Those that don't are free to do so. Japan, India and China offered second level before releasing top level.

Most ccTLD registries that offer IDN only do so at top level, but China so at all levels.

As demand for domains increases there is likely to expansion of the number of ccTLDs available.

Where first level is offered after second level it invariable supercedes the second level.

Hope that is useful.

Best Regards
Dave Wrixon