Singapore to open up second-level domains

Shorter names, fewer keystrokes

[Woz]

In this press release [nic.net.sg], the Singapore Network Information Centre [nic.net.sg] (SGNIC) will open up 2nd level domains (example.sg) for registration. Preference will be given to current registrants from mid-September to protect current trademarks and copyright.

The press release also gives a timetable of application events that will culminate in 2nd level domains registrations being open to the public on a first come basis from Jan 3rd 2005.

Onya
Woz

[bill]

Thanks for noting this Woz. I've got a few names there that need to be caught during the sunrise period.

After 2005 January 3 second level .sg domains will be opened to the public. It appears that Singapore residency will not be an issue.

8.8.2 - Registration Policies, Procedures and Guidelines

A foreign applicant may apply for a domain name in this category provided that it appoints a locally registered entity as its Administrative Contact.

[Woz]

The process has begun. This article [channelnewsasia.com] states that "over 1,000 firms apply for .sg domain names on first day."

Apparently there was a lot of phone enquiries yesterday with people unsure as to whether owning a 2rd level domain automatically qualified them for the equivelant 2dn level domain. This would seem to be not the case as "if two or more parties want the same domain name, then it will be allocated through bidding."

Further, "priority will be given to government agencies, trademark holders and existing website owners."

As stated earlier, this process will continue until early next year when 2nd level domains will be open to the public on a first come basis.

Onya
Woz

[bill]

I've got in a few applications for these. It sounds like the earliest they can be used will be January 3, 2005. I'm still not completely clear whether names allocated in the Sunrise period will be usable immediately after the allocation results are announced on December 20, or whether I have to sit through the "objection period".