How to Register Your Own Domain Extension: A Comprehensive Guide

Registering your own domain extension (also known as a Top-Level Domain, or TLD) involves a series of steps and requires coordination with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Here is a general overview of the process:

1. Understand the Requirements

Before starting the registration process, it's important to understand the requirements and responsibilities involved in managing a TLD:

• Technical Requirements: You need a robust infrastructure to support the domain registry, including DNS services, WHOIS services, and other technical components.
• Financial Commitment: Registering a new TLD can be costly. ICANN charges a substantial application fee, and there are ongoing costs for maintaining the registry.
• Policy and Compliance: You need to comply with ICANN's policies and procedures, including data escrow, rights protection mechanisms, and dispute resolution processes.

2. Prepare Your Application

Prepare a comprehensive application that addresses the following aspects:

• Technical Plan: Detail how you will manage the DNS, WHOIS services, and other technical components.
• Business Plan: Provide a business plan that includes your marketing strategy, pricing, and financial projections.
• Operational Plan: Explain how you will manage day-to-day operations, including customer support and compliance with ICANN policies.

3. Submit Your Application to ICANN

ICANN periodically opens application windows for new TLDs. During these periods, you can submit your application through the New gTLD Program. Here are the steps:

• Create an Account: Register an account on the ICANN New gTLD Program website.
• Complete the Application: Fill out the application form with all required information.
• Pay the Application Fee: The application fee is typically around $185,000, but this may vary.
• Submit the Application: Submit your completed application along with the fee.

4. Application Review and Evaluation

ICANN reviews and evaluates each application. The review process includes:

• Initial Evaluation: An assessment of the technical, operational, and financial capabilities.
• Public Comment Period: The application is posted for public comment.
• Extended Evaluation (if needed): If there are concerns or objections, an extended evaluation may be conducted.

5. Contracting and Pre-Delegation Testing

If your application is approved, you will enter into a Registry Agreement with ICANN. You will also undergo pre-delegation testing to ensure your systems are ready to operate the TLD.

6. Delegation and Launch

Once you pass pre-delegation testing, your TLD will be added to the root zone of the DNS, making it officially live. You can then start accepting registrations for your new TLD.

7. Ongoing Responsibilities

Managing a TLD involves ongoing responsibilities:

• Technical Maintenance: Ensure the reliability and security of your DNS infrastructure.
• Compliance: Adhere to ICANN policies and contractual obligations.
• Customer Support: Provide support to registrars and end-users.

Resources

• ICANN New gTLD Program
• ICANN Applicant Guidebook

Summary

Registering your own domain extension is a complex, costly, and lengthy process. It involves preparing a comprehensive application, passing ICANN's rigorous review process, and maintaining ongoing compliance and technical standards. If you have the resources and commitment, launching a new TLD can provide significant branding and business opportunities.