Early Access Allows You to Go to the Front of the Line
Hundreds of new domain name extensions, or top level domains (TLDs), have been released over the past five years.
While .com is the popular option, you now have lots of other choices. Someone showcasing their web design portfolio might use .DESIGN. A home builder can pick .BUILD. And developers might like .DEV, a top level domain operated by Google.
The registries that release these new domain choices have different processes for their launches. There can be a lot of demand for certain second level domains (the personalized part of the domain, left of the dot) when these domains launch. To address the rush for new domains, the registries offer a unique way to get the domain you really want.
A Phased Launch
There are at least two phases to each new TLD launch.
The first phase is called Sunrise. During this time, companies that have trademarks get first dibs on domains that match their brands. The final phase is called General Availability. This is a first-come, first-served period when anyone can...