What is the AKDN Domain?
The .AKDN domain is a Top-Level Domain (TLD) sponsored by the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF). It’s a restricted TLD, meaning its use is specifically intended for entities associated with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). The AKDN is a group of private, international, non-denominational agencies working in the fields of health, education, rural development, and the arts. The .AKDN domain provides a dedicated online space for these organizations and their initiatives, fostering a sense of community and trust among stakeholders. It signifies affiliation with the AKDN and its core values.
What Type of TLD is AKDN?
.AKDN is a sponsored TLD. This means it’s not a generic or country-code TLD, but rather one that is sponsored by a specific organization – in this case, the Aga Khan Foundation. Sponsored TLDs often have specific eligibility requirements and usage guidelines, ensuring that the domain is used appropriately and in alignment with the sponsoring organization’s mission. Unlike open TLDs like .com or .org, registration is not generally available to the public; it’s reserved for AKDN-related entities.
The History of AKDN: When Did This Domain Launch?
The .AKDN domain was formally delegated on March 31, 2016. This marked the official launch of the TLD and the beginning of its use by organizations within the Aga Khan Development Network. The delegation process involved technical configuration and coordination with the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). The record was last updated on August 25, 2023, indicating ongoing maintenance and management of the domain.
Why and Where Can You Use a AKDN Domain?
The .AKDN domain is primarily intended for use by:
- Organizations directly affiliated with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
- Projects and initiatives supported by the AKDN.
- Individuals and entities working in partnership with the AKDN.
Typical use cases include websites for AKDN agencies, program-specific online platforms, internal communication portals, and online resources related to AKDN’s work in areas like education, health, and rural development. It’s not generally available for commercial use unrelated to the AKDN’s mission.
What is the Current Price for a AKDN Domain?
Pricing for .AKDN domains is not publicly standardized and varies depending on the registrar and any specific agreements with the Aga Khan Foundation. It’s generally higher than common TLDs like .com due to the restricted nature of the domain and the associated administrative oversight. Direct inquiries to AKDN-approved registrars are necessary to obtain accurate pricing information.
Top 10 Popular & Affordable AKDN Domain Registrars
| Company Name | Approx. Price (1st Year) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Afilias | Varies | Direct access through AKDN channels. |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
| Check major registrars | Varies | Pricing depends on registrar and promotions |
Name Servers list
| Name Server | IPv4 Address | IPv6 Address |
|---|---|---|
| a0.nic.akdn | 65.22.44.17 | 2a01:8840:2a:0:0:0:0:17 |
| a2.nic.akdn | 65.22.47.17 | 2a01:8840:2d:0:0:0:0:17 |
| b0.nic.akdn | 65.22.45.17 | 2a01:8840:2b:0:0:0:0:17 |
| c0.nic.akdn | 65.22.46.17 | 2a01:8840:2c:0:0:0:0:17 |
Sponsoring Organisation, Administrative Contact, Technical Contact
| Role | Details |
|---|---|
| Sponsoring Organisation | Fondation Aga Khan (Aga Khan Foundation) |
| Sponsoring Organisation Address | 1 – 3 avenue de la Paix, Geneva CH-1202, Switzerland |
| Administrative Contact Name | Director of Finance |
| Administrative Contact Org | Fondation Aga Khan (Aga Khan Foundation) |
| Administrative Contact Email | akftld.akdn@akdn.org |
| Administrative Contact Voice | +41 22 909 7200 |
| Administrative Contact Fax | +41 22 909 7292 |
| Administrative Contact Address | 1 – 3 avenue de la Paix, Geneva CH-1202, Switzerland |
| Technical Contact Name | Senior Director, DNS Infrastructure Group |
| Technical Contact Org | Afilias |
| Technical Contact Email | tld-tech-poc@afilias.info |
| Technical Contact Voice | +1 215.706.5700 |
| Technical Contact Fax | +1 215.706.5701 |
| Technical Contact Address | 300 Welsh Road, Building 3, Suite 105, Horsham PA 19044, United States of America (the) |
Registry Information include URL for registration services,
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Registry URL | http://www.akdn.org/ |
URL for registration, WHOIS Server ,RDAP Server
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| WHOIS Server | whois.nic.akdn |
| RDAP Server | https://rdap.identitydigital.services/rdap/ |
| Registration URL | Not publicly standardized / varies by registry |
Record last update Registration date
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration date | 2016-03-31 |
| Record last updated | 2023-08-25 |
Is the AKDN Domain Right for You?
The .AKDN domain is a highly specialized TLD. It’s not suitable for the general public or businesses without a direct affiliation with the Aga Khan Development Network. If you are part of the AKDN, it offers a valuable way to establish a credible and recognizable online presence within the network. If you do not have a direct connection, other TLDs like .org, .com, or country-code TLDs are more appropriate choices.
FAQ
What is the Aga Khan Development Network?
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a group of private, international, non-denominational agencies working to improve the quality of life in some of the most disadvantaged parts of the world.
Who can register a .AKDN domain?
Only organizations and individuals directly affiliated with the Aga Khan Development Network are eligible to register a .AKDN domain.
Is the .AKDN domain a secure TLD?
Yes, like all modern TLDs, .AKDN supports security protocols like DNSSEC to help protect against DNS spoofing and other cyber threats.
How do I find an approved .AKDN registrar?
Contact the Aga Khan Foundation directly for a list of approved registrars. Information can be found on their website or through their administrative contact.
What are the benefits of using a .AKDN domain?
The primary benefit is establishing a clear affiliation with the Aga Khan Development Network, building trust and credibility within the AKDN community.
Is the .AKDN domain widely recognized?
While not as widely recognized as .com or .org, it is well-known within the AKDN network and among stakeholders familiar with the organization’s work.
Where can I find more information about the .AKDN domain?
You can find more information on the IANA website (https://www.iana.org/domains/root/db/akdn.html) and the Aga Khan Foundation website (http://www.akdn.org/).
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