.info Frequently Asked Questions
This section provides answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the registration of .info domain names.

What does the .info domain stand for?
The .info domain is one of the seven new generic top-level domains approved by ICANN to make up for the shortage of names in .com .net .org namespace.

The .info domain can represent the short form of the word "information" in many languages, but essentially it is the one new unrestricted domain and as such the one true .com alternative.

Who can register .info domains?
The .info domain is targeted at individuals, small businesses and Global 1000 corporations. It is also the only "unrestricted" domain out of the seven new gTLDs.

Who runs the registry for .info domain names?
Affilias, a consortium of 18 registrars, has been authorized to run the .info registry. Tucows, our partner, is one of the 18 registrars with a stake in Affilias.

How will name disputes be resolved?
Affilias will use ICAAN's UDRP (uniform dispute resolution process) to resolve any disputes related to the registration of .info domain names.

The domain name must conform to standard rules for domain names:

• Only characters in the range A to Z, 0 to 9 and hyphen are allowed
• Names can not begin or end with a hyphen
• The maximum length is 63 characters (exclusive of the .info portion)

Who is eligible to register a domain during the Start-Up period?
As .info is the only new unrestricted top-level domain, anyone may register a domain name for any purpose.

Are there any specifications on the .info domain that I am allowed to register?
Yes. ICANN has sanctioned that all single-character labels and two-character labels be initially reserved. Therefore registrants may not register domains with a single character (eg. www.b.info) or two-character labels (eg. www.me.info).

Who is eligible to register a domain during the Registry Live?
As .info is the only new unrestricted top-level domain, anyone may register a domain name for any purpose.

How long is the Registry Live?
The Registry Live will continue indefinitely.

Can I transfer a domain registered during the Registry Live?
Domains can be transferred during the Registry Live as long as the status of the domain permits transfers.

What are the registration terms for domains registered during the Registry Live?
Domain names registered during the Registry Live must be registered for a minimum of two years and up to a maximum of 10 years.

When can I start using a domain registered during the Registry Live?
Domains registered during the Registry Live are expected to be resolvable approximately five minutes after the registration.

What dispute process will be used for domains registered during the Registry Live?
Disputes for domains registered during the Registry Live may be settled according to the Uniform Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) or through the regular court system.

How much will renewals cost?
Renewals will cost $10 US/domain/ year for a minimum of one and a maximum of ten years.