Umlaut domains? Maybe. Maybe not.

This article explains when umlaut domains make sense, what advantages they offer in Switzerland, and when it’s better to stick with the standard version without special characters.

What is an umlaut domain? (IDN domains in Switzerland)

Umlaut domains are part of the Internationalized Domain Names (IDN) standard. They allow special characters and umlauts to be included directly in your web address. Here’s a real example from Switzerland:

www.muenchenstein.ch (Official website of the municipality of Münchenstein in the canton of Basel-Landschaft)

To ensure that browsers, search engines, and servers worldwide can correctly process them, every umlaut domain is automatically converted into what’s called Punycode.
For münchenstein.ch, the encoded version looks like this:

www.xn--mnchenstein-thb.ch

If you’d like to see how your own domain is converted, you can try this tool:
IDN/Punycode converter

Advantages of umlaut domains in Switzerland

1. Strong recognition

A domain name with umlauts comes across as credible and authentic. Many users expect to see the correct spelling of names like Münchenstein. If someone types münchenstein.ch, they immediately recognize it as the official site.

2. Brand protection

Another major reason to register umlaut domains is brand protection. It prevents others from registering similar names and potentially diverting your visitors.

3. SEO potential

Search engines like Google can index umlaut domains correctly. If users specifically search for your brand or a location name including an umlaut, this can improve your visibility in search results.

Drawbacks and risks of umlaut domains

1. Technical compatibility

Not all systems support umlaut domains reliably. One of the biggest issues is email addresses:

❌ info@münchenstein.ch is not allowed.
✅ info@muenchenstein.ch works without any issues.

2. Confusion and typos

Many people will automatically type the domain without umlauts. That’s why it’s critical to register the version without special characters as well and redirect traffic accordingly.

3. Display in links and QR codes

In newsletters, social media posts, or QR codes, you’ll often see the encoded Punycode version:

www.xn--mnchenstein-thb.ch

This can look confusing or even suspicious to some users. Better use the domain without the umlaut and then set up a redirect.

www.muenchenstein.ch

When does it make sense to use an umlaut domain?

In Switzerland, umlaut domains make the most sense if:

✅ You operate locally (e.g., a municipality, small business, or association)
✅ Your brand or location name inherently includes an umlaut
✅ Your target audience is primarily German-speaking

If your business has an international focus, it’s usually better to rely on the standard version without umlauts as your main domain.

Practical tips for umlaut domains in Switzerland

To avoid common pitfalls, consider these best practices:

• Register both versions: The umlaut domain and the version without special characters.
• Set up a 301 redirect: This ensures visitors automatically land on your primary domain.
  How to set up domain forwarding
  Domain forwarding with a hosting package
• Never use umlauts in email addresses.
• Test QR codes, links, and newsletters: Check how your domain displays across channels.
• Communicate clearly: Let your customers know which spelling is the official one.

Frequently asked questions about umlaut domains

Helpful links on umlaut domains

• Switch.ch – Official Registry for .ch Domains
• IDN/Punycode-converter
• Wikipedia – Internationalized Domain Name
• Swiss Federal Office of CommunicationsBAKOM

Conclusion: Use umlaut domains smartly

Domains with umlauts are a powerful way to show regional roots and authenticity – especially in Switzerland. If you secure both spellings, set up redirects, and consistently use email addresses without special characters, you’ll be on safe ground both technically and legally. That way, your web address stays clear, trustworthy, and easy to find.