Domain Extensions

Frequently asked questions about new domain extensions

• Why are there new TLDs?

  Domains have been registered and in use for decades. During this time, millions of domain names have been created, registered, and deleted. Since each of these domains must be unique, the list of applicable or desirable names available to your business has been depleted, if not exhausted.

  In the past, there were only 22 top-level domains (TLDs) or domain extensions in use, such as .com, .net, and .org. The ICANN organization realized that there was a dwindling supply of ideal TLDs and sought to remedy that by adding new domain extensions. This provides you with better or more creative ways to create a domain that is helpful for your business or website.

• What is a gTLD?

  There are 20+ generic top-level domains (or gTLDs) that have been used over the years. Most of these are widely available to the public (such as .com for commercial use), but some are limited to government (.gov), military (.mil), countries or universities (.edu). In the last few years, this crowded field of gTLD extensions was infused by many new available gTLDs.

• Will all new domains be available to me and what's the difference between the registration phases?

  Netfirms offers over 300 new TLDs. These newer domain extensions are already live and available. Here's more information about each phase:

  • General Availability — Domain name extensions are available to the public and can be secured based on a first-come, first served basis. You may search our website for the original TLDs or any of the new TLDs.
  • The Early Access Period (EAP) — serves as an alternative to priority domain registration for new domains. This option functions on a sliding scale during the first week a new domain is made available. The fees for setup will vary depending on the day you choose to purchase the domain. The earlier you register a new domain extension, the more expensive the setup fee may be since you have the opportunity to secure the perfect domain before anyone else.
  • Trademark Holder — This registration period is the earliest a person may register a new domain. It is also referred to as the Sunrise period. This option is only available to those people who have had a Trademark validated by the Trademark Clearinghouse.
  • Pre-Registration — The Pre-Registration phase allows you to submit your name before the desired domain extension goes into live registration during the General Availability period. This allows you the opportunity to beat out others who are looking to purchase the same domain you want.
  • Priority Pre-Registration — Priority Pre-Registration allows you to pay a premium to place your registration request ahead of anyone in the pre-registration period.

• What is the benefit of pre-registering a domain?

  Pre-registration gives you the option to take a shot at landing a domain name that you think others may compete with you to try and register. The pre-registration process is fairly simple and can give you the opportunity to buy a new domain coming out into the market.

• Does pre-registering a new domain name guarantee that I'll get it?

  Pre-registering a new domain is not a guarantee that it will be yours. It puts your name on the initial list, but if others pre-register the same name, it will go to auction. If you do not land your desired name, that registration fee will be refunded to you.

• What's the difference between pre-registration and priority pre-registration?

  If you have a new domain name that you covet and fear it might get registered during pre-registration, you have the option to pay a premium in order to jump the line. This gives you priority and allows you to stake your claim before even the earliest of possible applicants. In some cases, this priority fee is cheaper than going to auction. So, if you believe this new name will be something others will also see opportunity in and wish to avoid the hassle, Priority Registration may be a savvy business decision.

• How do I register a domain with my trademark in it?

  First and foremost, your Trademark must be approved by the Trademark Clearinghouse. Upon presenting verification of this Trademark, you will have the opportunity to register a new domain name during the Sunrise period.