Since January 12th until April 12th 2012, every candidate with a custom extension is able to file an application with ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Name and Numbers) to obtain a new generic top-level domains (gTLDs).

In today's online world there are 22 different generic top-level domains (gTLDs). This list which includes .com, .net, .gov and the recently launched .xxx plus all the 18 other gTLDs will soon be expanded to include all types of words in many different languages. For the first time generic TLDs will be able to include words in non-Latin languages, such as Cyrillic, Chinese or Arabic.

Now any legal entity can apply for its own new gTLD, however, application process is expected to be thorough and exacting. To be awarded a new gTLD, applicants will need to provide a secure and reliable technical infrastructure, as well as demonstrate a long-term ability to enforce policy for and administer the domain. This prerequisite will help reinforce ICANN’s primary mission of maintaining DNS stability and security.

Help is available to make it easier. However, providers such as EuroDNS’ partner OpenRegistry.com offer all the necessary tools and expertise to prepare for a successful gTLD application and operate the extension for the next ten years on their state-of-the-art infrastructure.

As ICANN has begun accepting applications for new gTLDs on January 12th, hundreds of new extensions may be introduced until April 12th, 2012. It is expected that registrations in the new gTLD could be available as early as 2013.The new gTLDs will likely fall into the following categories:

• Brands - Brand owners, such as corporations, sports teams, and other high-profile entities, can protect their brands and trademarks, enhance brand trust, and create new ways to extend their brand and services to partners, resellers, and customers.
• Communities - Groups of like-minded organizations that share common missions, goals, and challenges can promote commercial or non-commercial offerings to better promote, protect, guide, and serve their communities.
• Cities or Regions (Geographic) - Cities and regions can promote greater recognition of their areas, generate additional revenue, and better serve constituents.
• Generic Terms - This category covers terms that do not fall under the previous three categories. Forward-thinking organizations and innovative entrepreneurs could pursue new business opportunities or build their online presence.

By March 29th, 2012, applicants must subscribe into the TLD Application System (TAS) to be able to submit their application. April 12th, 2012 will be the final day for submitting all applications.

This will be a revolution in the world of domain names. EuroDNS plans to offer the most exciting extensions as soon as they are available, in the meantime don’t hesitate to get in touch to see how we and our partners can help!

sales@eurodns.com
info@openregistry.com