What are IDN Domains?

Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) are domain names that use non-Latin scripts or characters, allowing domain names to be represented in various languages and alphabets. These domains play a crucial role in bridging the language gap and ensuring a more inclusive internet experience for users worldwide. In this article, we will explore IDN domains, provide examples, discuss the rules for registering such domains, and explain the conversion to punny code.

What are IDN Domains?

IDNs are domain names that include characters from non-Latin scripts, such as Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, or Devanagari. These domain names allow users to access websites using domain names written in their native language and script, making the internet more accessible and user-friendly. IDNs are encoded using the Punycode system, a method that converts Unicode characters into a string of ASCII characters, which can be read by the Domain Name System (DNS).

Examples of IDN Domains: Here are a few examples of IDN domains in different scripts:

1. Arabic: مثال.السعودية (xn--mgbh0fb.xn--mgberp4a5d4ar)
2. Chinese: 示例.中国 (xn--fsqu00a.xn--fiqs8s)
3. Cyrillic: пример.рф (xn--e1afmkfd.xn--p1ai)
4. Devanagari: उदाहरण.भारत (xn--p1b6ci4b4b3a.xn--h2brj9c)

Rules for Registering IDN Domains:

1. Language and Script Support: Not all domain registrars support all languages and scripts. Before registering an IDN domain, ensure that your chosen registrar supports the specific script you want to use.
2. Character Restrictions: IDN domains can contain a combination of Unicode characters, but they must conform to the specific language’s rules and restrictions. For example, some languages do not allow certain character combinations, while others have specific rules for the use of accents or diacritical marks.
3. Trademark and Copyright Issues: As with any domain name, make sure your chosen IDN domain does not infringe on any trademarks or copyrights. This is particularly important when dealing with international characters, as similar-looking characters from different scripts might cause confusion or legal issues.
4. Domain Availability: Before registering an IDN domain, check its availability through a domain registrar that supports IDN registrations. Keep in mind that some top-level domains (TLDs) may have specific rules or restrictions for IDN registrations.

Punny Code Conversion Example: When registering an IDN domain, the Unicode characters are converted into an ASCII-compatible string using Punycode. For example, the Cyrillic IDN domain “пример.рф” is converted to “xn--e1afmkfd.xn--p1ai” in Punycode. This encoded version is then used by the DNS to resolve the domain name.