Published: 27.06.2026
The .dev extension was designed for people who write code and build digital products. It has a technical look, and like its relative .app, it enforces encryption for every site. Many developers use it for portfolios, blogs, documentation and tools.
Check if a .dev domain is available .dev Check
A short history
.dev was one of the generic top-level domains created in the expansion of the domain system. It was delegated in the second half of the 2010s, and after the usual early access period it became generally available in 2019. The registry is operated by Google, which uses it for its own projects too. The name instantly made sense to the technology community, so it was adopted by individual programmers, open-source projects and companies.
Who runs it
The registry is Google Registry. Names are sold by accredited registrars and the central database is maintained by the registry. The zone supports DNSSEC and internationalised names.
The main rule: HTTPS only
The whole zone is on the HSTS preload list of modern browsers. Browsers do not allow connections to .dev sites without encryption. Every site needs a valid SSL certificate from the first minute, or it will not open.
- Get a certificate before you point the domain to the server. Free certificates are fine.
- Check that the certificate matches the name, and renew it automatically.
- Remove references to http:// from your pages, because mixed content will be blocked.
- For local development use a local name or a test certificate, because a plain http://project.dev address will not work.
Other rules
- Open to everyone, without conditions about the owner.
- Up to 63 characters, with letters, digits and hyphens.
- Registration for one year or more; premium names have special prices.
Who uses .dev
- Developers with a personal site, a CV and a blog.
- Open-source projects with documentation and demos.
- Agencies, freelancers and technical consultants.
- Companies that publish API references, developer portals and tools.
- Learning projects and communities of programmers.
Strengths
The extension describes the audience and builds credibility among technical visitors. It is secure by default, which protects visitors and gives a clean impression. Many short and meaningful names are still free.
Weaknesses
- The extension is narrow in meaning, so it is less natural for a general business.
- The mandatory HTTPS needs careful setup of hosting and local environments.
- Users who expect .com may mistype.
Tips for a good developer address
- Use your name or your project name, and keep it short.
- Host a fast static or lightweight site. Visitors from the technical world notice slow pages.
- Show real work: repositories, articles and a clear contact.
- Set up a professional e-mail address on the same domain.
- Register the .com version of your name if you can, and redirect it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be a developer to use .dev? No, anyone can register it.
Does .dev work for local testing? Not with plain HTTP. Use a different local name or a locally trusted certificate.
Can I use a free certificate? Yes, as long as it is valid and renews on time.
