The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has authorized new Generic Top Level Domain (gTLD) extensions. These new registries will supplement the existing .com, .net. and .org gTLDs | ||||||
The new gTLDs being implemented within the next few months include: | ||||||
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The following additional gTLDs will be implemented in the future: | ||||||
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This article focuses on the procedure for obtaining what is likely to be one of the most popular of the new domain names, the “.biz” gTLD, and to a lesser extent on the “.info” gTLD registration process. | ||||||
REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR .BIZ | ||||||
The .biz gTLD is a “restricted” gTLD, open only to individuals and companies for bona fide business or commercial purposes. The registration process for .biz domain names will proceed in three stages. | ||||||
Stage One – IP Claim Service | ||||||
This is a voluntary process that allows owners of trademarks and service marks to assert claims of intellectual property rights in their marks, so-called “IP Claims.” The purpose is to prevent “cybersquatters” from rushing in to register a .biz domain name that is identical to a rightful owner’s trademark. The IP Claim Service will achieve the following goals: | ||||||
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When to File an IP Claim |
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Where to File an IP Claim |
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Should Owners File an IP Claim? |
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We do not believe that it is essential for trademark owners to file an IP Claim, except in limited circumstances, for several reasons. First, even without having filed an IP Claim, trademark owners will still be able to use ICANN’s Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (the “UDRP”). Disputes can also be resolved under common law, and state and federal trademark laws (including the 1999 Anti-cybersquatting statute), against cybersquatters and infringers. Second, the cost ($90 per mark) is not trivial for most businesses. Third, the benefits of the STOP procedure have not been tested, and are uncertain. For example, filing an IP Claim will not give a trademark owner rights over someone who uses the same mark for different products (a problem that has been endemic to the domain name system from its inception). Finally, trademark owners are free to apply for .biz domain names without filing an IP Claim. | ||||||
Stage Two – Pre-Launch Domain Name Application Process | ||||||
Owners can file .biz domain name applications prior to the launch of the .biz Registry. After .biz is launched, domain name applications will be accepted only on a real-time, first-come, first-served basis. Filing a pre-launch application may improve an owner’s chances for obtaining any given .biz domain name. Filing an application during Stage Two does not, however, guarantee that an owner will be awarded the .biz domain name for which it has filed an application. Where multiple applications are submitted for the same .biz domain name, the .biz domain name will be awarded to one applicant based on a neutral, randomized selection process. As noted above, this is true even if an owner files an IP Claim. | ||||||
When to File a .biz Pre-Launch Domain Name Application |
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Where to File a .biz Domain Name Application |
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Stage Three – Launch of .biz | ||||||
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REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR .INFO | ||||||
The .info gTLD is an “unrestricted” gTLD, open to all individuals and companies for any purpose. The registration process for .info domain names will proceed in three stages, but the implementation dates for the .info registration process have not been announced as yet. We will keep you informed of new developments with respect to the .info registration process. | ||||||
Stage One – Sunrise Period | ||||||
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Stage Two – Start-Up Period | ||||||
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Stage Three – Post Start-Up Period | ||||||
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Please feel free to contact Susan Mulholland atsusan.mulholland@gesmer.com regarding any questions you may have regarding filing .biz or .info domain name applications with these new registries. | ||||||
Appendix: | ||||||
Additional information regarding the registration requirements and registration process can be found at the following web sites: | ||||||
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You may file an application for a domain name registration with any ICANN-accredited registrar. There are over forty accredited registrars in the U.S. alone. Based on cost, customer service, and other considerations, we recommend selecting one of the following registrars: | ||||||
123 Easy Domain Names, Inc. dba Signature Domains | ||||||
BulkRegister.com, Inc. | ||||||
Melbourne IT Limited, d//a Internet Names WorldWide | ||||||
Network Solutions, Inc. Registrar | ||||||
Register.com, Inc. | ||||||
We will provide information regarding other registrars upon request. |
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