Domain Names: .com vs. .ca?

Hi Scott,

I just finished reading Internet Riches, you did a great job, it was a very informative book. I'm eager to start my business online, but i have a question.

When i register my domain name should i choose the .com or the .ca extension considering i live in Canada?

Thank you,
A.G.
Toronto, Canada

SCOTT FOX'S ANSWER:

Hi A.G.,

Unless you are limiting your business to Canada, I would go with the .com domain name.  It is more widely known and most likely for people worldwide to remember easily. 

In fact, unless you are starting a business targeting non-English speakers, I recommend .com domain names for all businesses.  This can give any English speaking marketer access to the huge US market, even if she is not based in the United States.  Obviously, more potential customers is more potential revenue for you!

To help your Canadian customers, I would also purchase the .ca domain name.  Then you could point that domain to your primary .com web site so that you capture traffic from both markets.

These days there are lots of good domain name registrars.  I use and recommend InternetMillionaireDomains.com.  This is my service that I operate as a reseller of GoDaddy domains. 

Thanks for writing,
Scott Fox

Comments

[Chris]

Using both domains is not necessary. I would recommend the .com simply for the fact that people are going to automatically assume your site is a .com

Also, if you are targeting Canada, after getting your website setup you should create a Google Webmasters account and set your targeted location to Canada. This can help generate traffic for sites such as yours.

[Scott Fox]

Good point, Chris.
Thanks for sharing that strategy.