Overview of New
Top-Level Domains
A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the last segment of the domain name, located after the last dot, used to specify a website’s category or country code.
Today, the online catalogue of available top-level domains includes the following broad categories:
Legacy, most popular and widely used spaces:
Spaces that correlate to a country:
New extensions introduced in 2012:
TLDs are a critical part of the internet’s domain name system (DNS), serving as the highest level of domain names on the internet. Some call top-level domains the beating heart of the Internet. Without spaces such as .com, .net and .org, the Internet would not have grown to the scale is has today.
How top-level domain spaces interact, and serve a global community, continues to be the subject of much debate.
Available TLDs worldwide.
Increase in DNS attacks last year.
“Here at Sokomi, we relish the healthy expansion of the DNS eco-system whilst remaining committed to security, stability and resilience for all exploring their own digital journey.”
Sven-Holger
Solutions Architect
The Californian based organization that administers the Internet, ICANN, last accepted applications for TLD ownership in 2012. Nearly 2,000 applications were received, including 100s from organisations looking to protect their online brand and Intellectual Property. The next application round is opening soon!
Company constitution and administrative requirements
The applied word and supporting reasons.
Technical infrastructure
Community and policy driven obligations
Financial requirements for operating a TLD
This number is likely to expand significantly following the next application round. Any person or organization looking to apply should start preparations early to ensure coverage of all decision points. Operating a TLD is the same as starting up a new business unit. Having a clear business plan and identifying the path to success will ensure the application phase itself is the easiest stage of the journey.
Apply Now!
Anyone can apply to operate aTop-Level Domain provided one has the financial means and can pass the evaluation criteria…
The Sokomi team has worked with over 250 registry operators since 2012. Our experience and knowledge in this area has grown from strength to strength over the last 14 years.
TLD Application
- Applying Top-Level Domain
Applying for a top-level domain is a serious endeavour that should not be undertaken lightly. The entire process will be governed by a 1,000 page guidebook detailing the requirements of an applicant, obligations to the world at large and the contract to be entered into with the Internet’ governing body, ICANN.
“For those not applying, Sokomi can advise on the overall program impact as well as the industry specific impact across a number of geographic territories. Sokomi recommends all interested parties to avail of our gTLD Workshop whether they are applying or otherwise.”
Pre-application
Application
Post Application
Consulting & Advisory
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