It is then expected to pick around three of the suggested names to join current top level domain (TLD) names such as .COM and .ORG.
The new TLDs are expected to come into operation early next year. ICANN’s policy involves a process in which those interested in operating or sponsoring new TLDs may apply to ICANN. For this, ICANN is asking a US$50,000 application fee to cover its costs. Formal applications for new domains will be accepted by ICANN from 5th September to 2nd October. There will then be a two week period for public comment on the suggestions. After reviewing the applications, ICANN will select applications and these applicants will then enter into negotiations with ICANN.
The period offered for applications has been shortened from two months to slightly less than one month due to ICANN running behind its own schedule for introducing new TLDs. ICANN blamed the large number of inquiries into the application process for slowing progress.
Numerous suggestions for the new suffixes have been sent to ICANN. They include .SHOP, .KID, .BIZ, .LAW and .SUCKS among others. ICANN is meeting in Japan in November and it will then decide which suffixes to adopt.
Administration of the .COM, .NET and .ORG domains is carried out by Network Solutions in Virginia, USA. Country codes are looked after by other organisations (for example, the .UK domain is controlled by Nominet). Several organisations are interested in looking after the new names and ICANN will have to resolve the question of which applicant should succeed where more than one wants to administer the same domain. Such administration is potentially lucrative.
Full details of the application process are available on ICANN’s site.