# Registering and using internationalized domain names (IDNs)

> Register a .com or .net domain with non-English characters and understand how IDNs and Punycode work.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/domains/registration/registering-and-using-internationalized-domain-names-idns/

Registering and Using Internationalized Domain Name(IDNs)

**Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs)** allow you to include characters from languages other than English, such as accented letters or non-Latin scripts, in your domain name. This makes it easier to create web addresses that are localized and more meaningful for your target audience.

Registering an internationalized Domain Name

You can register **.com** or **.net** domains that include international characters. Before registering, your chosen domain must first be converted into a format called **Punycode**.

**Punycode** is a method that converts Unicode (multi-language) characters into the standard letters and numbers that the internet can understand.

You can easily convert your domain to Punycode using this tool:\
 <https://mct.verisign-grs.com>

**Example:**\
The internationalized domain **éxàmple.com** becomes **xn--xmple-rqa5d.com** after conversion.

Adding an IDN to Your ruachost.com hosting account

When adding your IDN to **cPanel** or **WebHost Manager**, you’ll need to use the **Punycode version** of your domain name.

**For example:**\
To add **éxàmple.com**, enter **xn--xmple-rqa5d.com** in your cPanel or WebHost Manager settings.

Keep in mind that when someone visits your internationalized domain, their web browser will automatically display the Punycode version in the address bar. If a visitor types **éxàmple.com**, the browser will show **xn--xmple-rqa5d.com** once the page loads.