There are presently only seven such names in operation including
.COM and .ORG. It is hoped that the increased number of top level
domains will reduce competition for clear and concise domain
names.
In addition, more specific names such as .TRAVEL may help
internet users to readily identify services they are looking
for.
Although ICANN’s decision has been praised for increasing
flexibility and choice for companies and individuals seeking to
establish a presence on-line, it has also received heavy
criticism.
Some critics are concerned that the current proposals are too
vague on essential points including how many new names will be
created and how trade mark infringement issues will be dealt
with.
Many companies presently seek to register under all available
top level domains to retain an exclusive identity and so the lack
of domain names may not be rectified by simply introducing new
names.
ICANN proposes to seek bids from operators of the new domains
from August with the maximum cost of controlling them estimated to
be $50,000. ICANN aims to have completed this procedure and to have
begun phasing in the new names by the end of this year.
