A professional custom email address is what you need to kickstart your digital journey. One popular option to create a custom email address is by using country-specific domain extensions.

Most country-specific domains have a unique (ccTLD) code that is allowed for usage by its residents and anyone outside their country interested in expanding their services in their region. If you are in Iran or target Iranian clients, an .ir email address can help build local trust and brand visibility. An .ir domain is a country-code top-level (ccTLD) domain for Iran and is managed by Iran. 

While registering for an .ir domain has its own rules, Neo simplifies the process of setting up your branded .ir email with or without an existing domain. This blog discusses how you can get started to create your .ir email address.

Create an .ir email address if you already have a domain name registered

If you already have your .ir domain name registered through an accredited registrar, the next step is to connect it with a reliable email hosting platform. 

An email hosting provider like Neo offers all the necessary services to manage your mailboxes securely while ensuring high email deliverability using advanced features for business communication. Here’s a step-by-step guide to set up your custom .ir email with Neo:

Step 1. Start the Sign-up Process on Neo’s Website

Go to Neo’s website, and click on “Get Started” on the homepage.

Step 2. Select ‘Yes, I have a domain I can use’.

Of the two options,  select  “Yes, I have a domain I can use.” This will direct the setup process to integrate your existing .ir domain. Click “Continue with my domain”.

Step 3. Enter your registered .ir domain name

Type your full .ir domain name (e.g., yourbusiness.ir). After entering, Neo will verify the ownership for registering the domain. 

Step 4. Create your Neo account. 

Create your Neo account by entering your full name, an existing email address (for initial communication and account verification), and a secure password. 

Step 5. Set up Your Custom .ir Email and DNS Records. 

Once you have created your account, you can now set up your .ir email address for the admin account, e.g., admin@shoplocalartefact.ir or info@shoplocalartefact.ir. Neo’s interface makes it easy to create additional custom .ir email addresses for team members, email aliases, and catch-all accounts.

Select an email hosting plan, enter the payment details, and start using Neo during the 15-day free trial. However, make sure to update the DNS settings to allow emails to flow through the Neo server.

Create a custom email address if you don’t have a domain name

If you can’t get an .ir domain, an internationally recognized domain extension can be a great alternative. Neo’s .co.site extension is globally recognized and is offered free as part of its email hosting plans. Here’s how to get started with a new domain and a professional email address through Neo:

Step 1. Visit Neo and Click ‘Get Started’. 

Go to the Neo website and select the ‘Get Started’ button.

Step 2. Select No, I need a new domain option.

Choose the No, I need a new domain option to register a new domain name. Click ‘Get a new domain.’

‍

Step 3. Enter your desired domain name. 

Enter your desired domain name in the search bar. Neo’s system will then check the availability.

Step 4. Sign up with Neo. 

Proceed to create your Neo customer account by providing the required personal information. This account will help in managing the billing, subscription, and domain name renewal. 

Step 5. Set up your custom email address

Once your new .co.site domain is registered, you can create custom email addresses like hello@shoplocalartefact.co.site. Neo’s platform allows you to configure your business mailbox settings, add multiple user accounts, and manage email flow.

Besides email, Neo often integrates an AI-powered website builder so you can launch a professional custom website with your new domain and further boost your online presence.

What are the Requirements to register for the .ir Domain?

Although you don't need to be a native of Iran, it is open to all. Still, some requirements need to be fulfilled for .ir domain registration. Here are the main points to understand about registering an .ir domain name:

General Requirements

• No Local Presence Required: You don’t need to be a resident of Iran or have a registered business in Iran to obtain an .ir domain.
• Application Process: Registration must be done through an authorised registrar.
• Processing Time: Typically takes about 7 days for registration to be processed and approved.
• Technical Connection: While there are no strict residency requirements, the domain and applicant should have a reasonable connection.

Domain Naming Rules for the .ir domain

• The domain name must be at least 3 characters long and no more than 63 characters long.
• Characters allowed are letters (a-z, case-insensitive), numbers (0-9), and hyphens (-).
• Spaces are not allowed.
• Hyphens cannot be used as the first or last character, nor can they be used simultaneously as the third and fourth character.
• IDNs: Persian (Farsi) IDNs (Internationalised Domain Names) are supported.

Sub-domains under .ir

For more specific uses, Iran offers several third-level domains under the .ir TLD:

• co.ir: For registered commercial companies (requires proof of company registration)
• org.ir: For registered non-profit organisations.
• .ir: For academic institutions
• gov.ir: For Iranian government bodies
• id.ir: For individuals with Iranian citizenship or legal residence
• net.ir: For ISPs and network service providers
• sch.ir: For schools and educational institutions

Each of these sub-domains has specific requirements and may need additional documentation for registration.

Why Neo For Email Hosting Services?

Neo is a full platform to make setting up and managing your online presence easy. It’s ideal for startups, small and medium-sized businesses, and independent professionals. The best part, it has all the important features at a good price.

Here are the main benefits and reasons to choose Neo:

• Free Domain Registration: .co.site domain included with all paid plans.
• Email: Campaigns, tracking, signature design, appointment booking (Neo Bookings), Smart Writ, and email rules.
• AI Website: Build and launch a website in minutes. 
• Security: End-to-end encryption, 2FA, and advanced spam/virus protection.
• Uptime: 99.9% uptime, on AWS.

Neo makes you online and business running without burning a hole in your pocket.

Bottom Line

Creating an email with a .ir domain or similar is essential for your online presence if you’re targeting Iranian customers or a global audience. Neo makes it easy to set up in minutes, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your business communication, Neo has got you covered.

Start improving your professional identity today by creating your custom .ir email address or .co.site domain extension with Neo. Try it free for 15 days to see how it benefits you before you pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use my existing .ir domain with Neo’s email services?

Yes, Neo integrates seamlessly with your existing .ir domain. Just select the “I have a domain I can use” option during setup and follow the DNS configuration instructions.

2. How long does it take to activate my .ir email address after signing up with Neo?

After you sign up and configure your DNS settings correctly, your email address will get activated within 24 - 48 hours, depending on DNS propagation time.

3. Can I create multiple email addresses with my .ir domain on Neo?

Yes. Depending on your plan, Neo allows you to create multiple email addresses under your domain. Perfect for creating departmental emails (sales@, support@, etc.) or individual team member emails.

‍