What is a top-level domain (TLD)?
Every domain name around the world ends with a top-level domain (TLD); these are the 2 or more letters that come after the dot. There are currently two types of TLDs: generic top-level domain (gTLDs) such as .com, .mobi, and .info, and country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) such as .uk, .br, and .cn. A gTLD or a ccTLD is managed by a registry operator, an organization that maintains the registry database, including the nameserver information for names registered in the TLD.
What is a gTLD?
gTLD stands for generic Top-Level Domain. (what Internet users see as an Internet extension such as .COM, .ORG, or .INFO) and they are part of the structure of the Internet's domain name system. The gTLDs are also sometimes called labels, strings, or extensions.
What is a string?
The sequence of characters that make up the TLD, like com or net or org.
Who is ICANN?
The non-profit organization that regulates the domain naming system for the Internet. ICANN’s mission is to ensure the continued stability and security of the DNS (Domain Name System).
Why are new gTLDs being introduced?
One of ICANN's key commitments is to promote competition in the domain name market while ensuring Internet security and stability. New generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) help achieve that commitment by paving the way for increased consumer choice.
How many new TLDs are being introduced?
See a list of proposed new gTLDs and monitor the ones that interest you with our FREE watchlist tool.
How many new TLDs will you launch?
As the largest wholesale registrar, we will be launching as many new and publicly available TLDs as possible.
What does it mean to be a registry of a new TLD?
A registry is the organization that is managing the TLD. Registries such as United TLD or Famous Four Media set the rules of engagement as well as the level of security for each TLD they manage. Those TLDs might also restrict who gets a domain name and improve the verification process for registrants. A registry does not typically provide domain name services directly to end consumers but to valued partners and other registrars like eNom.com.
How will search engines treat new TLDs? Will they be included within the search results?
It’s still early to have any definite information about how Google and other search engines will handle new TLDs. Currently, search engines like Google and Bing mostly only account for geographic factors when ranking TLDs and weight a site primarily on its content.
What is the expected new market share for new TLDs?
New TLDs will not be judged on the volume of domain names sold in many instances. They will be part of marketing efforts to build stronger relationships with customers, community members, distributors, affiliates, suppliers and organizational members. It is the value of that relationship that would determine the success of a new TLD.
Why should I launch new TLDs within my business or product offering?
With more than 103 million .COM domains registered, your customers have a limited number of names available. New TLDs provides customers with more choice and control over their online presence. A positive search result for their preferred name gives them a positive experience and one step closer to buying from you.