Generic top-level domains (gTLD) such as .com, .net and .org typically cycle through a “Sunrise Period” prior to becoming available to the general public.
The Sunrise Period allows trade mark owners an advanced opportunity to register domain names that correspond with their trade mark registrations prior to the public launch of the gTLD.
Some of the gTLDs entering into or cycling through a Sunrise Period in August 2016 and September 2016 include:
| Extension | Order Entry Deadline |
| .motorcycles | 11 August 2016 |
| .shop | 25 August 2016 |
| .storage | 26 August 2016 |
| .games | 8 September 2016 |
| .shopping | 15 September 2016 |
While the gTLDs listed above may not appear to be of direct interest, trade mark owners may wish to consider applying to register “defensive” domain name registrations in an effort to protect their trade marks from misuse in these domain name spaces.
For more information on pre-ordering gTLDs in a Sunrise Period or general information on registering domain names, please contact Khajaque Kortian, Principal.