Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Top Level Domain ?

A top-level domain (TLD), sometimes referred to as a top-level domain name (TLDN), is the last part of an Internet domain name; that is, the letters which follow the final dot of any domain name. For example, in the domain name www.example.com, the top-level domain is com (or COM, as domain names are not case-sensitive). Management of most top-level domains is delegated to responsible parties or organizations by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which operates the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) and is in charge of maintaining the DNS root zone.

Source: Wikipedia

What is .shop ?

.Shop is a proposed new generic Top Level Domain, focused to the global shop business and all those who share its values.

Why do I need a .shop domain ?

A .Shop Domain can be very useful to you. It provides you a unforgettable mark in the internet. Your trade or your business is automaticaly recognized as a commercial  craft. 

The Internet user  dont need to search over the millions of different TLD´s  as com; org; net; info; or others.

The .shop Domain wont border your affection in the internet, it will accentuate it.

Which advantage do I have with a .shop domain ?

1. .shop will be a new alternative to the common TLD´s as .com, .org, net, etc.. It will provide new namespace.
   
2. The possibility to creative individual businnes solutions beyond generic domains.
   
3. .shop-Domains will support the expansion of local offers                (e.g. Gombe.shop Neighborhood in Kinshasa/Congo, Damani.shop Clothing shops in the U.S.A)
4. .shop will increase the e-commerce.
   
5. The unification of entrepreuners around the world and the possibility, to promote your own business.

When will .shop domains be available ?

The last news is that ICANN would start accepting applications for new top level domains at the beginning of 2009. From that point on, it will take several months to examine applications and select the ones which will be added to the Internet.

It depends if our application will be selected, in case we do not expect to become operational at best before 2010.

How can I help ?

If you are active in the entrpreneurship, in the Internet industry, an investor and would like to actively support our application, join the DotShop consortium.

If you are a potential user of a .shop domain name, please let us know. The more support we get from the community, the better chance we stand to succceed through the application process.