In June of 2008, the International Corporation for Assigned Names and Number (ICANN) announced the liberalization of the Internet domain name space to increase competition and consumer choice, and promote new innovative uses of domain names. This policy will expand the number of generic top level domain (gTLD) registrations (e.g www.example, rather than www.example.com), and also allow registration of Internationalized Domain Names (IDN's) for languages, such as Chinese, that use non-Latin scripts.

The expansion of the gTLD Domain Name space presents both opportunities and challen ges for existing corporations as well as entities interested in establishing a new gTLD, or pursuing IDNs to reach communities that do not use the Latin script. The process starts with evaluating the business need, and then making an application through ICANN's Request for Proposal (RFP).

Melbourne IT was one of the first five registrars to compete in the registration of .com domain names, and created a joint venture that successfully applied for, established, and operated the .biz registry. This background and our position as the premier provider of Domain Name Management services makes Melbourne IT the clear choice when looking for guidance and assistance in the development and execution of a gTLD strategy and applying to ICANN for a gTLD.

• Potential to Increase Visibility of the Brand Online
• Improve Search Ranking (SEO)
• Minimize clicks to get to specific information
• Access to Desirable Names for New Products/Brand Extensions
• Brand Protection - Control of Activity and Content within the gTLD
• Customized Domains for Affiliates/Vendors/Partners

Contact us today to find out more about the gTLD process and how we can assist you with your on-line strategy.