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Get shorter domain names from mid-Sept
THE next generation of Internet addresses will require fewer keystrokes - a simple
'.sg' suffix instead of the '.com.sg' or '.net.sg' ones currently in use.
The Singapore Network Information Centre, which registers these domain names, says companies can start applying for the shorter domain names from mid-September.
The centre's general manager, Mr Lim Choon Sai, said that the shorter names will also be easier to remember.
By adopting the shorter '.sg' suffix, Singapore follows examples set by the likes of the United States, Japan, China and Hong Kong.
Said Mr Lim: 'Previously, if you wanted to register, you had to first prove what kind of organisation you were: So, a commercial company would take a 'com.sg', while a government agency would take a 'gov.sg' or a non-profit organisation, 'org.sg'.
'But after the shortened domain names come out, you don't need this type of information and it will be easier for people to register a name.'
The centre will begin '.sg' registrations on Sept 15, and priority will be given to the 39,000 government organisations, companies and individuals that already have a com website.
Mr Lim expects at least 50 per cent of those companies and organisations to register for the new, shortened version.
Priority will also be given to those who have Singapore-registered trademark names.
From Jan 3 next year, the centre will accept applications on a first come, first served basis.
If there are two or more parties who want the same domain name - supermarket.sg, for instance - they will have to slug it out in a bidding war.
Details of the bidding process have yet to be finalised.
Registering a new domain name will cost at least $40, depending on the services required, such as setting up e-mail addresses associated with your website.
Source : http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/
