A Top-Level Domain is basically the last word in a URL: .com, .edu, .gov, etc. Up until now, there have been only twenty-two Top-Level Domains -- starting next year, that number begins to move toward infinity. With the new gTLD process, any set of letters can be set up as a Top-Level Domain.
Last June, ICANN approved a new gTLD concept, first discussed back in 2008, to allow any name or word for a TLD. ICANN has been very conscientious in getting feedback on the concept from every entity involved with the Internet, from businesses to governments to universities to the general public. The most likely groups to grab a new gTLD will be those companies ready to set up a domain with the company name. Another likely set of applicants will be those groups interested in setting up non-English gTLDs, such as ones for those using Russian, Arabic, Japanese or Chinese languages.
The factsheet released in June by ICANN says that a deposit of $5,000 will be required of all applicants to the new gTLD program, to be followed by payment of an evaluation fee of about $185,000. Beyond those costs, establishing a new gTLD will be an ongoing expense for those approved, mostly because the applicant will be committed to becoming an official Internet registry, a complex technical function that will require trained staff and 24x7 operations outside a company's normal structure.
The new gTLD Applicant Guidebook will be of interest not only to those who are seriously considering creating a new gTLD, but also to those who are simply curious. The related Applicant Support Program lays out possible non-financial partnerships with support organizations for those about to launch a new gTLD. Such support covers:
- the initial steps of writing a new gTLD application and guiding the application through the ICANN process
- logistical and technical assistance in creating an Internet registry
- legal support for filing necessary forms
- advice on IPv6, DNS and other back-end features
- consultation on security aspects
- aid in securing accurate language translations
- training for staff
Applications for new gTLDs will be accepted by ICANN beginning January 12, 2012.
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