Generic Top Level Domains

What are Generic Top Level Domains?

Seven generic top-level domains were introduced in 1980. Out of the seven, .edu, .mil, .int and .gov are restricted domain names while .org, .com, and .net are International domain names, which can be registered by anyone. Seven more additional gTLDs were launched in 2001 and 2002.  On June 2005, ICANN approved and added many more new gTLDs to the sponsored top level domains which include .cat, .tel, .mobi, .jobs, .travel, .post, .xxx etc. In June 2011, ICANN voted to allow individuals and companies to create their own domain extensions. It is expected that .com’s will remain the gold standard, however.

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What is Each gTLD Used For?

Generic top level domains are sub divided into two categories — sponsored (.biz, .name, .info, .pro) and non-sponsored (.aero, .museum, .coop) gTLDs.

• The .com domain is for commercial organizations;
• .org domain for non-profit entities;
• .net for internet service providers;
• .edu for educational establishments;
• .mil domain for US military managed by the US DoD Network Information Center;
• .int domain for International entities established by International agreements which is managed by IANA
• .int Domain Registry;
• .gov for the US governments and agencies in the US which is managed by US General Services Administration;
• .biz is reserved for businesses;
• .museum for museums which is operated by Museum Domain Management Association.

Who Regulates gTLD Names?

The Generic Top Level Domain Memorandum of Understanding, which is also represented as gTLD-MoU, outlines the policies of the generic top-level domain names. The administrative functions are controlled by ITU in Switzerland while dispute resolution processes of generic top level domains are managed by WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center in Switzerland.