What is a GTLD?

What is a TLD/gTLD/domain?

TLD stands for Top-Level Domain, while gTLD stands for Generic Top-Level Domain. A domain is what you type into the address bar of your Web browser to get to a particular website, such as www.godaddy.com. The new domains discussed on this website are referred to as new "gTLDs".

What is ICANN? What is their role?

ICANN stands for Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. They are a non-profit organization responsible for the coordination and oversight of the global Internet system. Their official website can be found at www.icann.org.

Why are they releasing new gTLDs?

The Internet is a huge place, but finding a relevant, available domain name can be difficult. ICANN hopes to increase domain name availability and change the way people find information online by releasing hundreds of new domain extensions.

Why does this matter to me?

New extensions will give you the ability to create a relevant name that better defines your website, brand, business, group or organization. Registering a gTLD that represents your market is a great way to increase your customers' trust and set yourself apart from other websites.

When will the new gTLDs be available for registration?

The new gTLDs have been rolling out in waves since late 2014, with hundreds open for registration now and more to come. Find one that suits you perfectly.

What are the registration phases — Pre-Registration, Sunrise, Landrush and General Availability?

Each registration phase has a defined date for acceptance and processing; pre-registration allows you to submit a registration request ahead of that date. GoDaddy will collect pre-registration requests and hold them in a queue until it is time to submit (opening of Sunrise, for example).

Sunrise is a registration period specifically for trademark holders. Landrush is after Sunrise and before General Availability. It is a premium registration opportunity for those seeking an early, non-trademark registration. General Availability (GA) is first come, first served registration. While GA is open to the public, there may be some requirements for registration (example: membership to an organization).