It’s been more than a decade since the internet saw the launch of its first dedicated adult domain extension: .xxx. What began as a controversial idea in the early 2010s has matured into a unique corner of the domain name landscape — a place where adult sites can stand out and everyone knows what they’re getting.
So, what’s changed since the early days, and what should you know about .xxx domains in the 2020s? Let’s dive in.
The arrival of .xxx — A brief history
The journey of .xxx started with years of heated debate, legal wrangling, and regulatory review.
When it finally launched in 2011, it promised a clear “home” for adult content on the web with the goal of making it easier for users to find (or block) explicit material.
At launch, the registry behind .xxx at the time, ICM, even partnered with cybersecurity experts like McAfee to scan these sites for malware — setting early standards for online safety that still influence the space today.
Flash forward to 2025: .xxx domains are now a well-established part of the domain ecosystem, with over 160,000 registrations worldwide as of 2024. While not every adult site has adopted .xxx, the extension has carved out a distinct space for verified, professional operators who want to stand out and stay compliant.
Fast facts about .xxx domains
☐ Launched: 2011
☐ Current Registry: GoDaddy Registry (formerly ICM Registry)
☐ Active .xxx domains (2024): 160,000+
☐ Trademark blocks: 30,000+
☐ Contribution to IFFOR (since launch): Over $20 million
Why the .xxx extension matters
✓ Instant appeal
For adult businesses, .xxx offers instant recognition and credibility. Even as the wider domain world grows, .xxx continues carving out its own space online, with thousands of sites registered and counting.
✓ Safety and security
One of the founding principles of .xxx was to create a more trustworthy environment for adult content. Every .xxx site must adhere to strict policies on age verification, malware prevention, and user privacy.
Because of the rules and regulations around .xxx domains, it may even be the case that they experience less abuse than generic extensions like .com. ICM Registry keeps .xxx sites safer by running regular malware scans, helping users browse adult content without nasty surprises.
✓ Industry oversight
A portion of every .xxx registration goes to the Foundation for Online Responsibility (IFFOR), the group that makes sure adult sites stick to rules and keep things above board. The ICM Registry continues to work with organisations focused on online safety and responsibility.
As ICM put it: “We’re committed to promoting responsible online behaviour and supporting best practices within the adult entertainment community — because safe is sexy.”
✓ Blocking, parking, and brand protection
Not in the adult industry? You still have a stake in the .xxx conversation. Major brands and trademark holders often register or block their names in the .xxx space to prevent misuse or brand damage.
In 2024, over 30,000 trademarks were officially blocked from being registered as .xxx domains.
✓ Trust
While adult websites don’t always have the best reputations, an .xxx domain coupled with the security of an SSL Certificate can help reassure visitors that your site is legit.
Who can register .xxx domain names?
Adult industry operators (Community members)
If you’re part of the adult entertainment industry and want your .xxx domain to go live, you need to complete the ICM Registry membership process. When you register your domain, you’ll verify your age and identity. Once approved, you get a Membership ID that works for all your .xxx domains. Without it, your domain won’t go live.
As ever, the domain name you choose can be 1–63 characters long and use letters, numbers, or hyphens (special characters aren’t allowed). You can register or renew .xxx domains for 1–10 years.
Other businesses or individuals
Anyone can register a .xxx domain. However, When you register your domain, it won’t work as a live website unless you later complete the ICM Registry membership process.
Some businesses buy .xxx domains just to “park” them (keep the name without a live website) or redirect them to their main website address. Services like AdultBlock help manage parked domains by preventing misuse and safely redirecting visitors.
For more about parking domain names, see the article: What is Domain Parking?
Key features of .xxx domains
☐ Security: All .xxx domains undergo regular security reviews and must comply with industry-best standards.
☐ Visibility: Many search engines now treat .xxx as a distinct category, making it easier to filter or find adult content as needed.
☐ Policy compliance: Registrants must follow a code of conduct, which includes strong anti-abuse and privacy protections.
☐ Micropayments and Monetisation: Payment gateways and affiliate programs tailored to the adult industry have become standard features on .xxx domains — an idea first floated when .xxx launched more than a decade ago.
☐ Availability: You’re more likely to find your ideal .XXX domain than the .com equivalent.
Should you register a .xxx domain name?
If you’re in the adult industry
A .xxx domain shows you take things seriously and follow the rules. It can help people find your site, build trust with visitors, and make monetisation easier — plus it keeps you in a safe, verified corner of the web.
If you’re not
You don’t have to be running an adult site to buy a .xxx domain. Any business can register one to establish their brand online. You can park it, redirect it, or simply keep it safe with a service like AdultBlock, giving you peace of mind and full control over your brand online.
See also: How to Buy a Domain Name – A Step-by-Step Guide (and Useful Tips)
The ongoing debate: Progress or problem?
The arrival of .xxx was met with both excitement and concern, and the debate continues. Supporters argue that it adds transparency and safety to a huge global industry worth an estimated $97 billion in 2024. Critics worry about the potential for censorship or the stigmatisation of legal adult content.
What’s clear is that .xxx has brought more structure and accountability to the online adult space. It’s a domain extension that’s here to stay.
Ready to get your .xxx website?
Whether you’re running an adult business or just looking to protect your brand name online, you can register your .xxx domain name with a respected registrar like 123 Reg. It’s quick, easy, and backed by the support you know and trust.
