Q1: In the introduction of new TLDs, what steps should
be taken to coordinate with the Internet Engineering Task Force, the Internet Architecture
Board, and other organizations dealing with Internet protocols and standards?I
don't know. I think it is more important to get new TLDs out the door than
to make sure everyone is happy about it.
Q2: What stability concerns are associated
with the initial phases of registration within the TLD?
A small batch of 10 or
so new TLDs should be registered, then allow 6 months for detection and fixing of
technical problems with the new TLDs. Of course there is going to be a lot
of junky software that assumes .com, .org, or .net, but the Internet is ready for
new TLDs.
To prevent rampant speculation and "domain squatting", allow already
registered domains to migrate to the appropriate new TLD. Do not allow any
new registrations until the 6 months are over, then open up registration.
Q4: Would
these stability concerns be magnified by introducing a large number of TLDs at once?
If
you allow already registered domains to switch over to the appropriate new TLD first,
you prevent lots of worry about "stealing". Adding lots of TLDs at once presents
more pyschological problems than technical problems. The first round should
be 10 new TLDs, then after a year or so, add about 50 more.
Q5: Are there any practical
means of reversing the introduction of a significant new TLD once it goes into operation?
No.
This is a really bad idea.
Q6: Is it feasible to introduce a TLD on a "trial basis,"
giving clear notice that the TLD might be discontinued after the trial is completed?
No.
TLDs should be permanent fixtures of the Internet. That is like saying, "We've
discovered the New World, but it might disappear tomorrow."
Q7: To ensure continued
stability, what characteristics should be sought in a proposed TLD and in the organization(s)
proposing to sponsor and/or operate it?
The TLD should indicate what type of content
is located at the domain. It should not describe the type of organization running
the domain.