.NET

'.net' ('net'work) generic top-level domain (gTLD) used on the Internet's Domain Name System. The .net gTLD is currently operated by VeriSign. Registrations are processed via accredited registrars and internationalized domain names are also accepted (see details).
.net one of the original top-level domains (despite not being mentioned in RFC 920), created in January 1985. It was initially intended for use by network oriented entities such as Internet service providers. Currently, there are no formal restrictions on who can register a .net domain name. Therefore, while still popular with network operators, it is often treated as a second .com.
In addition to being an abbreviation for "network", "net" is also a romanisation of the Russian word ("no" or "not", also commonly romanised as the more acoustically appropriate ""), and a domain name like "object.net" can be interpreted as "there is no object". Some domains exploit this pun, for example mozga.net (brain absent) or putina.net (not Vladimir Putin) and DamoW.net (there is no Damien Walsh).
Some online poker or other gambling sites operate real-money games at a .com address and games without actual stakes (promoted as being for fun or education) at the same name in .net. This can be used to get around legal issues regarding the advertising of online gambling in the United States, since the .net site can be promoted legally, but such promotion helps make people aware of the name of the real-money site even in jurisdictions where such things are of questionable legality.

Contents

Operation of .net from 2005

External links

Operation of .net from 2005

VeriSign, the operator of .net after acquiring Network Solutions, had its operational contract expire on June 30, 2005. ICANN, the organization responsible for domain management, sought proposals from organizations to operate it for at least six years beyond that date. Ultimately, and not surprisingly, none of the other companies that placed a bid for .net were able to top VeriSign's proposals, and VeriSign had the major advantage of already having proven itself in being able to manage both the .com and .net databases smoothly. VeriSign won the contract bid, and secured its control over the .net registry for another six years.

External links

★ IANA root-zone whois information for .net

★ List of .net accredited registrars