The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) which oversees the potential launch of hundreds of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) recently completed initial evaluations for close to 600 applications. Passing initial evaluation is the first of several steps on the path toward formal delegation and go-live for a new gTLD, which is expected in Q3-Q4, later this year.
At the moment, there are only 22 gTLDs, but this going to be increased dramatically over the course of the next few years, as hundreds of new domains are rolled out.
While a lot has been made of the fact that global brands have applied for some of the gTLDs, small businesses also need to be considered.
Before the domain name revolution, many small firms would have happily tried to develop an online presence in their own sector. Now though, many are worried about what impact the rollout of the domains will have on them.
Writing on the IT Pro Portal, Sally Tomkotowicz stated it is perfectly acceptable for a company such as Nike to apply for ownership of .nike. However, when it comes to generic terms, she has reservations.
Ms. Tomkotowicz said she is buoyed by the recent announcement by ICANN, which said when it comes to ownership of strings representing generic terms, exclusive registry access “should serve a public interest goal”.
Moving forward, Ms. Tomkotowicz thinks the only way to “foster competition and innovation” on the internet is to improve awareness of new gTLDs and what the impact will be for businesses.
For more information on new gtld’s please contact CSC Digital Brand Services. CSC Digital Brand Services is a subsidiary of Corporation Service Company® (CSC®), a leading provider of business, legal, and financial services founded in 1899.