What are .asia Domain Names?

Introduced on October 19th, 2006, the .asia domain extension is the generic top level domain in Asia. The sponsoring organization for the top level domain .asia is the DotAsia organization. Afilias Limited, the registry operator of the .info, .aero and other generic top level domains will oversee the registry operations of the .asia domains.

The .asia domain names registration has not yet begun as the contract between DotAsia and ICANN has not yet been finalized. Legally established companies, individuals and organizations within the region of Asia, Australia and the Pacific are permitted to register this domain. The domain is restricted and potential registrants must show proof of a contact residing in one of these countries. The Asian Domain Name Dispute Resolution Centre (ADNDRC) has been authorized by ICANN to settle any dispute that may arise regarding .asia domain names.

A period called “Sunrise,” has been proclaimed by DotAsia organization and this period is known as the priority registration period. During this period societies, trade owners, government bodies, organizations and companies can register their domain names. For a .asia domain registration, the registrant must comply with certain rules and restrictions. The term of this registration agreement will be initially for ten years and the domain name selected cannot be one that is already registered. There are five distinct phases of the “Sunrise” period of the .asia launch schedule.

The next period, known as Landrush, is a registration period expected to begin in February 2008. During this period, individuals can register .asia domain names. Many registrars are currently allowing individuals to pre-register domain names. This means that the registrar will automatically submit the domain name registrations as soon as the landrush period begins, in order to help individuals secure their desired domain names. If there are multiple registration requests for a domain, a closed auction will occur for that domain name. Potential registrars will need to have a registration application that is accurate and valid, or they will not be allowed to bid in the auction. Potential registrants will be notified of the action via email, and top bidders will win their desired domain names.