.bw

What does .bw mean?

.bw is a top-level Domain (TLD) associated with Botswana, a landlocked country in southern Africa. It was introduced in 1993 and is managed by the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA).

TLDs are assigned to specific countries, regions, or organizations, serving as the final part of a domain name and indicating its geographic or functional affiliation. .bw serves as a digital identifier for websites associated with Botswana, promoting the country’s online presence and establishing its Internet identity.

Applications

.bw plays a crucial role in Botswana’s Technology ecosystem and has numerous applications:

• National Identity: Websites with .bw domain names represent Botswana’s online identity, fostering a sense of national pride and unity among citizens.
• Business and Commerce: Local businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs use .bw domains to establish a credible online presence, reach a wider audience, and facilitate e-commerce.
• Government Services: Government agencies and institutions use .bw domains to provide online access to Information, services, and Public resources.
• Education and Research: Educational institutions in Botswana utilize .bw domains to host websites that offer online courses, research, and academic resources.
• Tourism and Travel: The tourism industry leverages .bw domains to promote Botswana’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and attractions, attracting visitors worldwide.

History

The concept of country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) like .bw originated in the early days of the internet, when the need emerged for a standardized way to indicate a website’s geographical affiliation. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) introduced ccTLDs in 1985.

.bw was registered as a ccTLD for Botswana in 1993, under the management of the Botswana Telecommunications Corporation (BTC). In 2017, the responsibility for .bw was transferred to BOCRA, which is now responsible for its administration and regulation.

Over the years, .bw has become an integral part of Botswana’s internet infrastructure and has contributed significantly to the country’s digital transformation. It has facilitated the growth of online businesses, improved access to information, and enhanced Botswana’s global online presence.