New gTLDs — Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated 24 October 2008
- Domain Name Basics
- gTLD History & Policy Development
- General Questions About the Program
- Applicant Guidebook
- Application & Evaluation Process
- Objection & Dispute Resolution
- Fees & Timelines
- Miscellaneous
Domain Name Basics
1.1 What is a domain name?
Every computer that accesses the Internet has a unique identifying address which is a string of numbers called an "IP address" (IP stands for "Internet Protocol"). As IP Addresses are often difficult to remember, these numbers are transposed into characters or letters (the "domain name") and are what a user types in when searching for websites or sending an email.
1.2 What are second-level and third-level domain names?
The portion of the domain name that precedes the top-level domain is called the second-level domain name (for example, the "icann" in "icann.org"). There are also third-level domain names that appear before the second-level domain name and again are separated by a dot (for example, events.icann.org). Third-level domain names are also called sub-domains and are often used to categorize special sections of a website.
1.3 How are domain names registered?
For gTLDs, domain name registrations are performed via a registrar. In the case of ccTLDs, domain names are usually purchased from local registrars or directly from the registries themselves. The registrar verifies that the domain name is available by checking the relevant TLD registry database. If the requested name is available, the registrar performs the registration transaction with the registry, who then adds it to their registry database.
1.4 What is a TLD?
Every domain name around the world ends with a top-level domain (TLD); these are the 2 or more letters that come after the dot. There are currently two types of TLDs: generic top-level domain (gTLDs) such as .com, .mobi, and .info, and country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) such as .uk, .br, and .cn. A gTLD or a ccTLD is managed by a registry operator, an organization that maintains the registry database, including the nameserver information for names registered in the TLD.
1.5 What is a gTLD?
gTLD stands for generic Top-Level Domain. A gTLD is part of the Internet's global addressing system or Domain Name System (DNS). The term “gTLD” refers to the specific suffixes which appear at the end of Internet addresses and are used to route traffic through the Internet. There are different types of top-level domains, which help to identify specific types of organizations, associations or activities (see RFC 1591). Some gTLDs, such as .com or .info, are intended for general use. Others are intended for use by a specific community - such as .COOP for cooperative organizations. A complete list of existing gTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/domains/root/db/ .
1.6 What is a ccTLD?
ccTLD stands for country-code Top-Level Domain and are two-letter, top-level domains that identify a country or territory. There are approximately 250 ccTLDs, for example: .ca for Canada, .jp for Japan, and .eu for the European Union. A listing of existing ccTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/domains/root/db/ .
1.7 What is an IDN?
IDN stands for Internationalized Domain Name. IDNs are domain names represented by local language characters, or letter equivalents. These domain names could contain characters with diacritical marks (accents) as required by many European languages, or characters from non-Latin scripts (for example, Arabic or Chinese). IDNs make the domain name label as it is displayed and viewed by the end user different from that transmitted in the DNS. To avoid confusion the following terminology is used: The A-label is what is transmitted in the DNS protocol and this is the ASCII-compatible (ACE) form of an IDNA string; for example "xn--11b5bs1di". The U-label is what should be displayed to the user and is the representation of the Internationalized Domain Name (IDN) in Unicode.
gTLD History & Policy Development
2.1 How are new gTLDs created?
The decision to establish the New gTLD Program followed a detailed and lengthy consultation process with all constituencies of the global Internet community. Representatives from a wide variety of stakeholders—governments, individuals, civil society, business and intellectual property constituencies, and the technology community—were engaged in discussions for more than 18 months. In October 2007, the Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO)—one of the groups that coordinates global Internet policy at ICANN—completed its policy development work on new gTLDs and approved a set of recommendations. Contributing to this policy work were ICANN's Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC), At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC), Country Code Names Supporting Organization (ccNSO) and Security and Stability Advisory Committee (SSAC). The ICANN Board of Directors adopted the policy in June 2008. A thorough brief to the policy process can be found at http://gnso.icann.org/issues/new-gtlds/.
There are eight gTLDs that predate the formal establishment of ICANN as an organization. These are: .com .edu .gov .int .mil .net .org .arpa. ICANN held two previous application rounds, one in 2000 and another in 2003-4, where several proposals were submitted and evaluated. The gTLDs approved during the 2000 round are: .aero .biz .coop .info .museum .name .pro. The gTLDs approved during the 2004 round are .asia .cat .jobs .mobi .tel .travel. You can find additional information about these previous application rounds at http://www.icann.org/tlds/app-index.htm (2000) and http://www.icann.org/tlds/stld-apps-19mar04/ (2003-4). Applications received during these rounds were evaluated against previously-published criteria, and those applicants who were successful went on to sign TLD Registry Agreements with ICANN.
2.2 How did the new gTLD policy development process work?
The Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) is responsible for creating policy applicable to gTLDs. The GNSO policy development process on new gTLDs was aimed at creating a standing policy to guide the ongoing introduction of new gTLDs. The GNSO Policy Development Process (PDP) is formally defined in the ICANN Bylaws (see http://www.icann.org/general/bylaws.htm#AnnexA ). The GNSO's final report on the introduction of New gTLDs can be found here ( Part A , Part B )
2.3 How are the GNSO's policy recommendations being implemented?
ICANN staff reviewed the 19 GNSO recommendations for the introduction of new gTLDs and developed a set of steps to put each of them into practice, while also being cognizant of the guiding principles and implementation guidelines. One of the main outputs of this implementation work is the Applicant Guidebook, which can be thought of as a roadmap for potential gTLD applicants.
General Questions About the Program
3.1 What is the new gTLD Program?
The new gTLD program is an initiative that will enable the introduction of new gTLDs (including both ASCII and IDN) into the domain name space.
3.2 Why are new gTLDs being introduced?
The new gTLD program derives from a consensus process in the Internet community, as evidenced in the policy recommendations. Some of the reasons for introducing new gTLDs cited during the policy development discussions include allowing for greater innovation and choice within the Internet's addressing system, currently represented by 21 gTLDs and over 250 ccTLDs (country-code Top-Level Domains). The program is expected to provide Internet users with new opportunities for creating digital identities, accommodating new ASCII and IDN TLDs. Brand holders and organizations seeking to manage their own name as a top-level domain may have an interest in securing these rights in the early phases of the new gTLD program for future branding purposes. With the limited availability of .com domain names, some companies may opt to become early adopters of new TLDs to satisfy their marketing needs. There will also be opportunities to apply for community and geographic top-level domains, such as .blog, .brand, and .city.
3.3 Will the introduction of new gTLDs change how the Internet operates?
The increase in number of gTLDs into the root is not expected to affect the way the Internet operates, but it will, for example, potentially change the way people find information on the Internet or how businesses plan and structure their online presence.
3.4 How many new gTLDs are expected?
There is no way of knowing the exact number of applications ICANN will receive during the application process or how many of these applications will qualify and become gTLD registries. Market speculations have estimated anything from hundreds to thousands of applications.
3.5 How are IDNs related to gTLDs?
ICANN is introducing IDNs at the top level for the first time in Internet history. At present, IDNs are available as second and third-level domains only. The introduction of IDNs at the top-level is being accomplished through two programs: (1) The IDN ccTLD Fast-track – see http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-2-30sep09-en.htm and (2) The New gTLD Program - http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtld-program.htm. The IDN top-level domain names will offer many new opportunities and benefits for Internet users around the world by allowing them to establish and use top-level domains in their native languages and scripts.
3.6 Is applying for a new gTLD the same as buying a domain name?
No. Nowadays, organizations and individuals around the world can buy second-level and, in some cases, even third-level domain names. They simply need to find an accredited registrar or reseller, comply with the registrant terms and conditions and pay annual fees. The application for a new gTLD is a much more complex process. An applicant for a new gTLD is, in fact, applying to create and operate a registry business and sign a contract with ICANN.
3.7 Will ICANN have additional rounds for application, or will this be my only chance to apply?
There will be other opportunities to apply in the future. ICANN expects to announce the timing for future rounds at the same time as it announces the first round. The exact timeframe for future rounds has not yet been finalized.
3.8 How and when can I see which gTLDs are being applied for and who is behind the application?
After the application period has closed, ICANN will verify all of the applications for completeness and will then release on its website the list of TLDs, applicant names, and all non-confidential portions of the application.
3.9 Is ICANN initiating the New gTLD Program to make money?
ICANN is a not-for-profit organization and this is a not-for-profit initiative. The program is designed to be self-funding. It is possible ICANN will over-collect or even under-collect for this first round of applications. If the fee collection exceeds ICANN's expenses, the community will be consulted as to how that excess should be used.
3.10 I have an idea for a new gTLD. Can I register my idea with ICANN in advance of the next application period?
There will be no pre-registration. The application process for new gTLDs is not a “first-come, first-served” process. ICANN will accept submissions only during an open application period. As such, there is no incentive to ensuring your application is received before everyone else's application. Instead, applicants will need to meet the objective criteria set forth in the Applicant Guidebook. To be selected to operate a new TLD, an applicant must demonstrate that, among other criteria, it has strong technical and financial capability and a commitment to comply with contractual requirements.
3.11 Is the upcoming application process going to be the same as for the previous new gTLD rounds in 2000 and 2003?
The application process will not be the same. The GNSO recommendations are intended to create a standing policy to guide the opening of a gTLD application round as well as the continuing procedures. Although this new implementation may share some similarities to the previous rounds, they are not identical.
3.12 Can applicants who were not selected in previous rounds re-apply in future rounds?
Yes.
3.13 Will applicants who participated in the previous gTLD application processes receive special treatment in future rounds? Applicants from previous rounds who re-apply will be required to meet the full set of evaluation criteria as established in the Applicant Guidebook. A partial fee credit may be available to the applicants of the round held in 2000. A maximum of one credit may be claimed for any new gTLD application submitted according to the processes in the Applicant Guidebook. The eligibility for this credit is determined by ICANN on a case by case basis. For more details, see 1.5.1 Section of the Draft Applicant Guidebook, version 3.
3.14 Will applicants operating alternate root systems be given preferential treatment in future rounds?
No. All applicants that submit an application would be equally eligible for a particular TLD string. ICANN is committed to a single, authoritative public root for the DNS and to the management of that unique root in the public interest according to policies developed through community processes. Please see ICP-3 for a detailed statement of ICANN's position on alternate roots.
3.15 How will the rights of trademark holders be protected in the process?
First, an objection-based process will enable rightsholders to demonstrate that a proposed gTLD would infringe their legal rights. Second, applicants for new gTLDs will be required to describe in their applications the rights protection mechanism they propose for second-level registrations, which must be made public. Third, all new gTLDs must ensure that second-level registrations are subject to ICANN's Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP), a process that has worked well to protect rights for many years. Finally, ICANN has been working closely with the trademark community to find additional solutions to potential issues for trademark holders in implementing new gTLDs. There are currently two new trademark protection proposals under consideration. These can be viewed here: http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/gnso-consultations-reports-en.htm
3.16 If someone applies for a brand name or a trademark that does not belong to them, will the brand or trademark owners be notified by ICANN?
At this time, ICANN is not contemplating a notification system. ICANN is conducting global public outreach to educate the community on what their responsibilities are, as well as what the formal objection mechanism and timeline is, before the program launches. ICANN will publish the list of all applications received after the application submission period closes, and will continue to publicize the objection process and deadlines.
3.17 Does this application process cover new ccTLDs also?
No. Information on procedures for establishing ccTLDs is available at http://www.iana.org/cctld/cctld-establishment-procedures-19mar03.htm. However, anyone, including ccTLD operators, may apply to operate a new gTLD.
3.18 Where can I find more information about the Program?
If you are new to the Program, this is a good place to start: http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/program-en.htm .
You should also peruse the Information Center http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/related-en.htm where you will find all kinds of supporting documentation addressing different topics related to the Program. If you are interested in seeing what people have said during the public comment forums, and how ICANN staff responded (Analysis reports), then you should also see http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/comments-analysis-en.htm
Applicant Guidebook
4.1 What is the “Applicant Guidebook”?
The Applicant Guidebook (also referred to as Request for Proposal [RFP] in past reference documents) is a step-by-step roadmap for potential gTLD applicants. The Guidebook covers technical and operational criteria, financial criteria, evaluation fees, required documentation, evaluation processes, and objection procedures. The Guidebook, along with a series of explanatory memoranda, has been released in drafts to solicit public comments. It is this feedback that has contributed to the refinement and improvement of subsequent versions, leading to the final Applicant Guidebook. To date, ICANN has released three drafts of the Applicant Guidebook. All drafts and accompanying documents can be found at http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/dag-en.htm . In addition to the full guidebook drafts, ICANN also released a series of interim guidebook excerpts for comment in May 2009.
4.2 Why is ICANN releasing drafts of the Applicant Guidebook?
Since late 2008, the Applicant Guidebook has been released in drafts posted for public comment. This is part of ICANN's bottom-up decision-making model and is a great opportunity for the Internet community to weigh in on the final set of criteria and processes.
4.3 When will the final Applicant Guidebook be available?
The final Applicant Guidebook is expected to be published in 2010. Since the timeline is subject to change, please continue checking the program's website.
4.4 What are Explanatory Memoranda?
Explanatory Memoranda are a set of papers that further explain specific aspects of certain topics, and the development process for certain areas within the Applicant Guidebook. These papers are produced and released for public comment together with the drafts of the Applicant Guidebook.
4.5 Why is ICANN asking for so much information from the applicants?
One of ICANN's core missions is to preserve the security, stability and global interoperability of the Internet. Future new gTLD registries are expected to comply with ICANN's contract and follow all best practices and standards to ensure this mission is fulfilled.
Application & Evaluation Process
5.1 Who can apply for a new gTLD?
Any public or private organization from any part of the world can apply to create and operate a new gTLD. Applications from individuals or sole proprietors will not be accepted due to the level of complexity and required resources involved. ICANN expects a broad range of public and private sector organizations from around the world to apply. All applicants for new gTLDs will need to meet very specific operational and technical criteria in order to preserve the security and stability of the Internet.
5.2 How do I apply for a new gTLD?
The first application round will start a few months after the posting of the final Applicant Guidebook. This time-frame is to allow new gTLD candidates to become familiar with the process and to gather all the relevant materials they will need to submit an application. The Guidebook will describe in detail the criteria that must be met in order to be approved for a new gTLD, including application requirements and the evaluation fee (this is a fee to cover the costs of establishing and running the gTLD application process). When the application round opens, candidates will apply via an online application system called TAS – TLD Application System.
5.3 Can I apply for more than one gTLD?
Yes. However, each application will be treated individually and there is no discounted application fee.
5.4 Can I apply for any kind of gTLD or are there any specific restrictions?
ICANN has a set of specific rules for gTLD strings that each applicant must carefully consider. For example, an application for a gTLD composed of numbers only will be rejected. Applicants for IDN gTLDs must carefully follow the additional technical specifications for IDNs as outlined in the Applicant Guidebook. Applicants representing a community-based TLD or a geographic TLD must meet additional specific requirements.
5.5 Can I simply reserve a gTLD and decide later whether or not to use it?
One of the reasons ICANN is opening the top-level space is to allow for competition and innovation in the marketplace. The application process requires applicants to provide a detailed plan for the launch and operations of the proposed gTLD. ICANN expects new gTLDs to be operational shortly after the registry agreement is signed.
5.6 Is there going to be a Sunrise Period for trademark owners to submit new gTLD applications?
No. Trademark owners may apply during the general application period.
5.7 Do I need to have a trademark in order to apply for a new gTLD?
There is no requirement for an applicant to hold a trademark in order to apply for a new gTLD.
5.8 What will happen during the application submission period?
The application submission period will likely last for a minimum of several weeks. Applicants will use an on-line dedicated interface system, TAS, to answer a series of questions about their financial and technical capabilities to operate a registry and to upload supporting documents. The online application system will also serve as a tracking and workflow management tool for ICANN staff, applicants and the various service providers supporting the evaluation or objection processes.
5.9 How will gTLD applications be assessed?
The Applicant Guidebook outlines the criteria and requirements. All applications will be assessed against these published criteria. Pre-selected evaluation panels will be responsible for determining whether applicants successfully meet these pre-established requirements.
5.10 How long will the evaluation process take?
Based on current estimates, the evaluation process may range from 8-19 months depending on the complexity of the application. Most applications are expected to be straightforward and able to be processed in the shorter end of this timeframe. Please see the Draft Applicant Guidebook, version 3, Section 1.1.2.9 for detailed information on timing estimates.
5.11 What happens if there are other applications for the same or a similar gTLD?
Applicants who have applied for the same or similar strings (resulting in “string contention”) have multiple opportunities throughout the process to reach an agreement to settle the contention among themselves. In some specific cases involving community based applications, a community priority (comparative) evaluation may be conducted to resolve the contention. Finally, ICANN is using auctions as a tie-breaking mechanism within the new gTLD process, in cases where the contention has not already been resolved by any of the other means available.
5.12 What happens after a new gTLD application is approved?
Once an application is deemed to satisfy the Applicant Guidebook criteria and passes all evaluation and selection processes, the applicant is required to conclude an agreement with ICANN and pass technical pre-delegation tests before the new gTLD can be delegated to the root zone.
5.13 What are the evaluation panels?
The evaluation process will count on the expertise of a variety of panels that were selected by ICANN through a call for Expressions of Interest. Members of these panels are required to abide by the established Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest guidelines included in the draft Applicant Guidebook. The main evaluation panels are:
String Similarity Panel - assesses whether a proposed gTLD string is likely to result in user confusion due to similarity with any reserved word, any existing TLD, or any new gTLD string applied for in the current application round. This occurs during the String Similarity review in Initial Evaluation.
DNS Stability Panel - reviews each applied-for string to determine whether the proposed string might adversely affect the security or stability of the DNS. This occurs during the DNS Stability String Review in Initial Evaluation, and may occur again if an applicant does not pass the review in Initial Evaluation and requests Extended Evaluation.
Geographical Names Panel - reviews each application to determine whether the applied-for gTLD represents a geographic name, as defined in the Applicant Guidebook. In the event that the string represents a geographic name, the panel will ensure that the required documentation is provided with the application and verify that the documentation is from the relevant governments or public authorities and is authentic.
Technical Evaluation Panel - reviews the technical components of each application against the criteria in the Applicant Guidebook, along with proposed registry operations, in order to determine whether the applicant is technically and operationally capable of operating a gTLD registry. This occurs during the Technical/Operational Reviews in Initial Evaluation, and may also occur in Extended Evaluation if elected by the applicant.
Financial Evaluation Panel - reviews each application against the relevant business, financial and organizational criteria contained in the Applicant Guidebook, to determine whether the applicant is financially capable of maintaining a gTLD registry. This occurs during the Financial Review in Initial Evaluation, and may also occur in Extended Evaluation if elected by the applicant.
Registry Services Technical Evaluation Panel (RSTEP) - reviews the proposed registry services in the application to determine if any registry services might raise significant security or stability issues. This occurs, if applicable, during the Extended Evaluation period.
Objection & Dispute Resolution
6.1 How can I object to an application?
After the list of all TLD applications has been published on ICANN's website, there will be a period of time for third-parties to file a formal objection using pre-established Dispute Resolution Procedures (DRP). All objections will be managed by specialized Dispute Resolution Service Providers, rather than by ICANN. The New gTLD Dispute Resolution Procedure includes the following enumerated grounds for objection:
String Confusion Objections - The applied-for gTLD string is confusingly similar to an existing TLD or to another applied for gTLD string in the same round of applications. Objectors can be existing TLD operators or gTLD applicant in the current round.
Legal Rights Objections - The applied-for gTLD string infringes the existing legal rights of the objector. Objectors can be rightsholders, for example, trademark holders.
Morality and Public Order - The applied-for gTLD string is contrary to generally accepted legal norms of morality and public order that are recognized under international principles of law. There is no limitation on who may file an objection – however, all morality and public order objections are subject to a “quick look” designed for early conclusion of frivolous and/or abusive objections.
Community Objections - There is substantial opposition to the gTLD application from a significant portion of the community to which the gTLD string may be explicitly or implicitly targeted. Objectors can be an established institution associated with a clearly delineated community.
6.2 How much does it cost to file an objection?
At the time an objection is filed, the objector is required to pay a non-refundable filing fee in the amount set and published by the relevant Dispute Resolution Provider (DRSP). If the filing fee is not paid, the DRSP will dismiss the objection without prejudice. For details, see Section 1.5.2 of Draft Applicant Guidebook, version 3.
6.3 Who will manage the Dispute Resolution Procedures?
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has agreed in principle to administer disputes brought pursuant to Morality and Public Order Objections and Community Objections. The ICC is a world-renowned dispute resolution provider based in Paris, France.
The Arbitration and Mediation Center of the World Intellectual Property Organization has agreed in principle to administer disputes brought pursuant to Legal Rights Objections. The WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center, based in Geneva, Switzerland, was established in 1994 to offer Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) options for the resolution of international commercial disputes between private parties.
Finally, the International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR) has agreed in principle to administer disputes relating to String Confusion Objections. The ICDR, based in New York, NY, United States, has many cooperative agreements with arbitral institutions around the world for facilitating the administration of its international cases.
6.4 What can I do if someone applies for my trademark as a gTLD?
ICANN has a dispute resolution mechanism that will allow third parties claiming that their legal rights are being infringed upon to file a formal objection to a new gTLD application. This objection mechanism is meant to dissuade questionable applications and to offer a solution when a party feels its legal rights are being infringed upon.
6.5 Will ICANN prevent the registration of objectionable or racist extensions?
Consistent with the policy advice on new gTLDs, offensive names could be subject to an objection-based process based on public morality and order. This process will be conducted by a qualified DRSP utilizing standards drawing on provisions in a number of international treaties.
Fees & Timelines
7.1 When can I apply for a new gTLD?
The program is still under development and the specifics on the date and time for applications have not yet been established or published. ICANN has begun an extended period of outreach and information sharing to ensure that potential applicants have all the information they need to prepare and lodge a successful application. Once this process has been completed, ICANN will announce the date for new gTLD applications. ICANN expects to open the application period in 2010, following the publication of the final Applicant Guidebook.
7.2 How much do I have to pay ICANN for the application?
The evaluation fee is 185,000USD and is required from all applicants. The evaluation of an application will not begin until ICANN has received the evaluation fee in full by a date and time that will be available in the final Applicant Guidebook. The evaluation fee is set so as to recover all costs associated with the New gTLD Program. It is to also ensure that the program is fully funded and revenue neutral and is not subsidized by existing contributions from any of ICANN's funding sources, including generic TLD registries and registrars, ccTLD contributions and RIR contributions. A detailed outline of the Evaluation Fee and other financial considerations are detailed in the Explanatory Memorandum: “Updated Cost Considerations” - http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/cost-considerations-04oct09-en.pdf
7.3 Are there any additional costs I should be aware of in applying for a new gTLD?
Yes. Applicants may be required to pay additional fees in certain cases where specialized process steps are applicable, and should expect to account for their own business start up costs. See Section 1.5.2 of the Applicant Guidebook.
7.4 Will ICANN offer refunds?
In certain cases, refunds of a portion of the evaluation fee may be available for applications that are withdrawn before the evaluation process is complete. The amount of the refund will depend on the point in the process at which the withdrawal is made. An applicant that wishes to withdraw an application must submit the required form to request a refund, including agreeing to the terms and conditions for withdrawal. Refunds will only be issued to the organization that submitted the original payment. All refunds will be paid by wire transfer. Any bank transfer or transaction fees incurred by ICANN will be deducted from the amount paid. For more details, see Draft Applicant Guidebook Section, version 3, Section 1.5.1.
7.5 Are there any ongoing fees once a gTLD is approved by ICANN?
Yes. Once an application successfully passes all evaluation steps, the applicant must sign a Registry Agreement with ICANN. Under the agreement, there are two fees: a fixed fee of 6,250 USD per calendar quarter and a transaction fee of 0.20 USD on future domain registrations and renewals.
Miscellaneous
8.1 What are the overarching issues?
The overarching issues are a set of key issues identified by community comment during the Applicant Guidebook public comment periods. These issues are: (1) Trademark Protection; (2) Potential for Malicious Conduct; (3) Security and Stability: Root Zone Scaling ; (4) TLD Demand and Economic Analysis . In order to address each of these issues, ICANN has engaged experts from each area to assist in identifying workable solutions. For detailed activities, please go to the Overarching Issues Wiki: https://st.icann.org/new-gtld-overarching-issues/index.cgi?new_gtld_overarching_issues .
8.2 What is the process for submitting questions about new gTLDs?
ICANN encourages community inquiries on the gTLD process. Questions may be sent to newgtld@icann.org . This FAQ will also be updated periodically based on questions received. Please also check the New gTLD page and Twitter to find out about the latest developments.