Find your perfect .nl
Use the .nl search bar ('Whois') to find your perfect .nl, or to check who the current registrant of a .nl domain name is. Simply enter the domain name you're interested in, and you'll immediately see whether it's still available. If it isn't, our suggestion tool will help you choose from the millions of alternatives. So that you get your perfect .nl!
Looking up a domain name
What is a domain name and what rules apply? To check whether a domain name's available, use the Whois. If a domain name's already in use, the Whois will give details.
Registering a domain name
You register a domain name through a registrar. Read how you do that and what you should consider, e.g. securing your domain name. There's also info about how we protect your privacy.
Updating your registration
If your registration needs updating, you do that through your registrar. Use the links for details of the different types of update.
Finding a registrar
You register a domain name through one of our registrars. Would you like to be able to handle domain registrations yourself? To do that, you need to become a .nl registrar.
Disputes and complaints
Do you believe that a domain name's use is wrong, unethical or unlawful? Do you have a problem with the content linked to a domain name? Use the links to see what you can do.
Disputes and complaints
Use these links to get legal information about domain names and advice on what to do if you have a complaint.
Is your business findable on the internet?
A well-chosen domain name makes it easier for people to find your business on the internet. But how? What do you need to consider when choosing a name, and what search engine optimisation (SEO) tricks will get your website to the top of the search results? Does it matter which extension you use, and can you change your domain name? SEO expert Eduard Blacquiere explains the essentials.
Tips for finding your perfect .nl
Choosing a good domain name is very important for any business that wants to succeed online. Check out our advice.
Other things to consider
When setting up online, it's smart to think about the security and findability of your domain name and website.
What is a domain name?
A domain name is a unique internet name. Our domain name is sidn.nl. Domain names are used mainly for websites. But you can do other things with them, such as create your own e-mail addresses.
A domain name is linked to an IP address
Every domain name goes with a long numeric address, or 'IP address'. Domain names were invented because long numbers aren't easy for people to recognise and remember. When you use the net, domain names are translated into IP addresses by the Domain Name System (DNS). Watch the video 'Super socks', which explains how the DNS works. English subtitles are available.
