1&1 Internet Ltd, www.1and1.co.uk, the world's largest web host by known servers, today announced it is now offering .CO domain name registrations.  As one of only 11 exclusive registrars worldwide, 1&1 has official certification to sell the brand new domain suffix.  A variety of user-groups can now benefit from securing their relevant .CO domains for just £29.99/year+VAT.  Businesses are advised to secure their domains early, as the granting of domain names is on a 'first-come, first-served' basis.

Domain experts expect strong demand for the .CO domain, especially in relation to trade and commerce.  Studies have shown that Internet users positively associate the .CO suffix with terms such as 'COmmerce', 'COmpany' and 'COrporation'.  Companies that currently hold a .COM domain now have an opportunity to extend their online identity with the corresponding .CO domain.  Businesses may also be wise to gain a .CO version of their other key Internet addresses in order to help protect their online brand against cyber-squatters.

Furthermore, the new top level domain is also suitable for 'COmmunities' and other Web 2.0 purposes.  For example, the popular micro-blogging service Twitter already uses .CO for its 'T.CO' Link Service.

The .CO domain originates as the top level domain for Columbia.  To push global adoption, the Government of the country has forwarded the rights to a consortium - as a consequence, registrations are now permitted without any need for residence in South America.

Oliver Mauss, CEO of 1&1 Internet Ltd, said ".CO is short and catchy.  Recognition value is therefore very high.  The many possible uses for .CO as a suffix leads 1&1 as a registrar to see strong potential".

1&1 manages over 11 million domains and is Europe's largest domain name registrar.  Besides new .CO domains, 1&1 offers a wide range of top level domains at very low prices.  A 1&1 bundle of 5 domains, for example, costs only £19.99+VAT for the first year.  Compared to the respective individual prices, a domain bundle offer provides great savings.