The release of new domain extensions is a structured process designed to ensure a fair and orderly allocation of domain names. This process is divided into several distinct phases, each catering to different groups of applicants and serving different purposes:
Sunrise Phase:
This is the initial phase of a domain extension's release. During this period, only trademark owners who have validated their trademarks can apply for a domain name that matches their trademark. The Sunrise phase is specifically designed to protect intellectual property rights, allowing trademark owners to secure domain names that reflect their registered trademarks before the general public can apply. To participate in the Sunrise phase, trademark owners must submit proof of their trademark registration and possibly undergo a validation process.
Landrush Phase:
Following the Sunrise phase, the domain extension enters the Landrush phase. This phase is open to anyone interested in securing a domain name early, but typically at a higher price than during General Availability. The Landrush phase is ideal for those who do not own a trademark but wish to claim a premium or highly desirable domain name before it becomes available to the general public. It's a competitive phase, and if multiple applicants are interested in the same domain name, it may be auctioned to the highest bidder.
Pre-Registration Phase:
During the Pre-Registration phase, individuals and organizations can submit applications for domain names at a standard fee. These applications are collected in preparation for the General Availability phase. Pre-registering does not guarantee you will receive your desired domain name, but it allows your application to be filed immediately once the domain becomes generally available.
General Availability:
This is the final phase in the release process of a new domain extension. During General Availability, domain names are available to the general public on a "first come, first serve" basis. This phase offers the broadest opportunity for individuals and organizations to register a domain name under the new extension. Prices during General Availability are usually set at a standard rate, and domain names are allocated without the priority or premium pricing of earlier phases.
Each phase is designed to cater to different needs, from protecting trademark rights to allowing early access for those willing to pay a premium, and finally, opening up registration to the general public.
Sunrise Phase:
This is the initial phase of a domain extension's release. During this period, only trademark owners who have validated their trademarks can apply for a domain name that matches their trademark. The Sunrise phase is specifically designed to protect intellectual property rights, allowing trademark owners to secure domain names that reflect their registered trademarks before the general public can apply. To participate in the Sunrise phase, trademark owners must submit proof of their trademark registration and possibly undergo a validation process.
Landrush Phase:
Following the Sunrise phase, the domain extension enters the Landrush phase. This phase is open to anyone interested in securing a domain name early, but typically at a higher price than during General Availability. The Landrush phase is ideal for those who do not own a trademark but wish to claim a premium or highly desirable domain name before it becomes available to the general public. It's a competitive phase, and if multiple applicants are interested in the same domain name, it may be auctioned to the highest bidder.
Pre-Registration Phase:
During the Pre-Registration phase, individuals and organizations can submit applications for domain names at a standard fee. These applications are collected in preparation for the General Availability phase. Pre-registering does not guarantee you will receive your desired domain name, but it allows your application to be filed immediately once the domain becomes generally available.
General Availability:
This is the final phase in the release process of a new domain extension. During General Availability, domain names are available to the general public on a "first come, first serve" basis. This phase offers the broadest opportunity for individuals and organizations to register a domain name under the new extension. Prices during General Availability are usually set at a standard rate, and domain names are allocated without the priority or premium pricing of earlier phases.
Each phase is designed to cater to different needs, from protecting trademark rights to allowing early access for those willing to pay a premium, and finally, opening up registration to the general public.