Domain TLDs split into two main groups: ccTLD (country code Top-Level Domain) and gTLD (generic Top-Level Domain). The two groups differ fundamentally — in governance, intended use, and SEO impact.
What is a ccTLD?
A ccTLD is a TLD tied to a specific country or territory. Examples: .uz (Uzbekistan), .ru (Russia), .us (US), .de (Germany), .uk (United Kingdom). Each is managed by that country's government or registry.
It's a 2-letter code conforming to ISO 3166-1. There are 250+ ccTLDs, but only about 50 are actively used.
What is a gTLD?
A gTLD isn't tied to any specific country — designed for anyone. Examples: .com (commercial), .org (organization), .net (network), .info (information), .biz (business).
New gTLDs (post-2013): .app, .dev, .blog, .shop, .xyz, and others. 1200+ new gTLDs exist.
Managed by ICANN or specific registries.
SEO differences
ccTLDs — Google ranks them higher for users from the corresponding country. A .uz site ranks higher when searched from Uzbekistan.
gTLDs — neutral, not tied to any country. Good for international audiences.
In Search Console you can manually set a "geographic target" for a gTLD.
Restrictions
Some ccTLDs restrict registration: .uz requires a legal entity or Uzbek citizen, .de needs a German legal address, .fr requires EU residency, .ca requires Canadian residency.
gTLDs typically have no restrictions — anyone can register.
Which to choose?
Local business — ccTLD (.uz, .ru) is good. SEO and trust are higher for the local audience.
International business — gTLD (.com) is good. Universally accepted.
Best approach — register both: a local ccTLD and an international .com at the same time.
Sayt.uz practice
78% of Sayt.uz clients register .uz (ccTLD), 31% also register .com (gTLD; most register both together). Tip: if you serve an Uzbek audience, pick .uz. If you also serve international audiences, add a .com.