What is a domain hack?
Quick answerA domain hack is a domain where the extension forms part of the word or phrase, like bit.ly, youtu.be or redd.it. Hacks can produce very short, memorable domains, but they often use country-code extensions with their own rules and prices, and some people may not realise where the dot goes.
Before you buy a domain hack
Check two things first: whether the country-code extension has residency rules, and whether people will understand where the dot goes. Extensions that Google treats as generic, like .io, .co, .me and .ly, are safer for a global audience. See the domain hack entry in our glossary.
Famous domain hack patterns
- Word endings: words ending in -ly, -io, -er, -es or -us map onto .ly, .io, .er-style and .us endings.
- Short links: brands use hacks for short-link domains (a 5-character hack is easy to print on packaging).
- Phrases: longer extensions like .studio, .design or .works can finish a phrase ("make.works").
How to make a hack work
- Pick a word people already know, so the dot doesn't confuse them.
- Check the extension's registration rules on its extension guide, since some country codes need local presence.
- Also register a conventional fallback (like the .com of your brand name) and redirect it.
- Use the hack mainly for short links, campaigns or vanity URLs, and keep the main brand easy to type.
Domain hack generator FAQ
Are domain hacks good for SEO?
Google treats most ccTLDs as geotargeted, except a list of generic-looking ones (such as .io, .co, .me, .ly). For a global audience, prefer hacks on those.
Which extensions work best for hacks?
.ly, .io, .es, .it, .in and new extensions like .studio or .design for longer words.