Personal dot-ie domain names introduced
31-10-2007
by ElectricNews.Net
The IE Domain Registry (IEDR) has relaxed the rules for registering personal domain names.
Individuals with a connection to Ireland can now register their own personal dot-ie (.ie) domain name, such as www.johnsmith.ie. The service is being provided by the dot-ie domain registry, IEDR, through a range of accredited resellers.
"It is aimed at all individuals in Ireland -- at anyone who is interested in maintaining their presence online. We have seen a huge proliferation of people online blogging and on Facebook and MySpace and Bebo. There is market for personal dot-ie domain names," a spokesperson for the IEDR's new service said.
The spokesperson told ENN that "business has been brisk" and around 1,000 domains will be registered by the close of business on Wednesday.
The relaxation of the registration rules follows consultation with the dot-ie reseller community and industry organisations. It also follows a seven-week notice period provided to sole traders, professionals, politicians, businesses and trademark holders who had not already registered their dot-ie internet address.
The IEDR believes domain name registration promotes online transactions and combats cyber squatting and costly intellectual property disputes.
Individuals seeking to register a dot-ie domain must prove they have a real and substantive connection to the island of Ireland.
"To maintain the integrity of the dot-ie domain namespace, which was named the second safest country code domain name in the world, applicants will need to authenticate their claim by providing matching supporting documentation such as an Irish passport or utility bill," said David Curtin, Chief Executive of the IE Domain Registry.
The IEDR will launch an online advertising campaign to mark the introduction of personal dot-ie domain names. The new online banner ads will integrate the 'Whois' look-up service that the IEDR operates, so people can instantly see if their name is available.
Prices charged by IEDR's resellers vary significantly. Registrants are advised to shop around to find the reseller with the most suitable combination of price, service and support.
Interested individuals can find a full list of resellers and check if their personal dot.ie domain name is available by visiting www.iedr.ie. They can also call 1890 88 22 89.
