Q: What is a gTLD?

A: “gTLD” is an abbreviation for Generic Top Level Domain. gTLDs offer a selection of extensions, such as “ .music, .shop, .sport” or even Brand names like “.canon”. gTLDs are sometimes called labels, strings or extensions. As of June 20, 2011 the ICANN organization has approved the program launch and application process for gTLD’s to be registered.

The addition of gTLDs to the digital landscape will change the face of doing business on the internet forever by empowering innovation, stimulating economic activity and generating new business opportunities around the world.

Q: Who’s purchasing gTLDs?

A: Any established public or private-sector organization in good standing  can apply to create and operate a new gTLD.It’s an innovative marketing strategy specifically geared towards Brands, organizations, cities, companies and consumer focused groups. There are no limitations to what a gTLD can be or

Q: Why should I purchase a gTLD for my Brand?

A: Brands are constantly thinking about who their Brand applies to and how best to market to those target groups. Brand leaders know that being “first” is an important step in gaining market share. By owing a gTLD, Brands can capitalize and become known as early adopters and digital innovators.

Q: What can I do with my new gTLD?

A: By owning their own gTLD, Brands can have better control over their digital real-estate and control which domains are registered under their gTLD, further extending their Brand recognition by creating their own email addresses and websites through those domains. Brands owning their own gTLDs will have favorable legal jurisdiction locations for their gTLD’s and be able to reduce unlawful or abusive activity involving their Brands including scams and phishing schemes.

Q: How can I obtain the gTLD that I want for my Brand?

A: Simply by applying for that gTLD. For each gTLD desired, a separate application must be completed and submitted before the end of the submission period.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Costs can vary depending on the resources that syou may already have or may need to obtain. The basic application fee is $185K USD, plus a $5,000 USD deposit per requested application must be paid upon filing Additional fees may be added to include consultation and services as well yearly domain renewal fees.

Q: OK, I’m ready to register. What’s the next step?

A: The first step is to decide with certainty that your Brand will move forward with the application process. The best time to do this would be no later than the beginning of September 2011.

Contact or create a partnership with a registry services provider like, registry.net, who will guide you through a checklist to make sure that your Brand has compete information to satisfactorily complete the application process and avoid any errors. Registry.net can help you through the entire process whether you have a Legal & IT Dept or need help to recruit assistance.

Q: How long is the application process?

A: The estimated lifecycle for a straightforward application could be nine (9) months including an Adminstrative Check, Initial Evaluation and Transition to Delegation. More complex applications could have a lifecycle of up to twenty (20) months.

By parnering with a reputable registrar like registry.net, your Brand can avoid potential problems in advance. Contact a regstry.net representative to learn more about the application lifecycle when applying for your gTLD.

Q: Are my competitors applying for gTLD’s?

A: Yes, they are! This is one of the most exciting developments in the internet industry, so be sure to be included in this application process. The names of Brands applying for gTLDs will not be made public until after the application process is closed. Pay attention, if one of your competitors should apply for your Trademarked or Copyrited intellectual property, you can object to it.

Q: When can I apply for my gTLD?

A: Applications can be electronically submitted beginning 12 January 2012. ICANN will be accepting and reviewing applications until 12 April 2012 Applications recieved after the submission period will not be considered for gTLD approval.

Q: What else do I need to do to set up a gTLD for my Brand?

A: Applicants for new gTLDs will need to meet operational and technical criteria in order to preserve Internet security and stability. A registry.net represetnative will take you through a survey of questions to determine what your needs are and if any additional resources and team will need to be on place to proceed.

Q: If I decide to wait, when is the next time I can apply?

A: Brands opting not to participate in the first round of the application process may have to wait up five (5) to ten (10) years until the next application process begins.

How can I contact a registry.net representative?