<b><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-5589" alt="ch-domain-extensions" src="https://itxdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/ch-domain-extensions.jpg" width="168" height="101" />What is the .ch Domain Extension?</b>

Choosing the right domain extension is very important. Most of the discussion is about .com, .net, .org, .info, .biz and a few other mainstream choices. However, countries also have their own domain extensions and .ch is the domain extension for Switzerland.

It may not make much sense, since neither "c" or "h" are found in Switzerland. However, the domain name stands for Confoederatio Helvetica or Helvetic Confederation. This is the Latin name for the country and has been adopted due to its' neutrality. The country also uses CH for vehicle plates and it's the ISO 3166-2 code for Switzerland, as well.

Registering a domain name with the .ch extension is acceptable for those in Switzerland. However, two-letter subdomain names are only used for Swiss cantons, such as ch.ch, which is the domain for the Federal Chancellery of Switzerland. Any second-level domain names have to contain at least three letters.

<b>Why Would You Want to Use a .ch Domain Name?</b>

A .ch domain name certainly doesn't fit for everybody, but for Swiss businesses and websites, it makes quite a bit of sense. If you're not a Swiss-based entity or you want to gain a world-wide presence, a .com is still the best choice.

Most businesses will want to register the .com, even if they use the .ch in Switzerland. The .com extension is the most recognizable across the world and provides the most trustworthy choice. However, locals may prefer to access your website through the .ch extension.

There's no regulation or rule that states you have to be based in Switzerland or have a business based there to register a .ch domain. However, when you use the .ch extension you will be appealing to a Swiss audience. If your site doesn't have anything to do with Switzerland, this can cause some confusion.

<b>How to Register a .ch Domain Name</b>

Registering a .ch domain name can be done through a domain registrar handling this domain extension. Once you've found the right registrar, it's just like any other domain extension. You will perform a search for the domain name you want and if it's available, pay the fee to register it.

Of course, you will need hosting for the domain name. ITX Design provides a variety of professional and affordable hosting packages you can use for your new .ch domain name. All you have to do is change the nameservers with the domain registrar to those matching your hosting company. Once this is done, you can start building your new website and take it live to the world, or at least Switzerland.

It's important to understand that .ch domain names come on a "first come, first serve" basis. If the domain you want isn't found through a registrar, you may have to track down the current owner and see if they are willing to sell it. If they won't sell it to you, it may be necessary to choose a different domain name or extension. A few other things to keep in mind when registering a .ch domain name include:
<ul>
	<li>Shorter domains are easier to remember</li>
	<li>Avoid hyphens and numbers whenever possible</li>
	<li>Make sure the domain doesn't infringe on any copyright</li>
	<li>Capitalization doesn't matter, domains are not case-sensitive</li>
	<li>Owning all the extension can help you avoid competition</li>
</ul>
These are just a few guidelines you should consider whenever registering a domain name, whether it's a .com or a .ch domain.

<b>Hosting your .ch Domain Name</b>

ITX Design will provide the best hosting for your .ch domain name. We provide a skilled team of professionals in the hosting industry ready to support you 24/7/365. Our award-winning team is at your disposal and ensures the highest uptime rate possible.

Whether you want to start with shared hosting or you know you need VPS or dedicated hosting, ITX Design has a package perfect for your needs. All hosting packages come with a variety of tools, scripts and site builders to help you take your .ch domain live quickly.

If you're ready to build your website on a .ch domain or any other domain extension, we're ready to help you. Maybe you don't know which hosting package fits best for your needs. Don't worry, our experts will answer any questions you have and help you choose the right package. Get started today with an affordable hosting package from ITX Design.