The administrative contact/agent is an individual or role account authorized to interact with Network Solutions on behalf of the domain name registrant. The administrative contact/agent should be able to answer non-technical questions about the domain name's registration and the domain name registrant. It is strongly recommended that this contact/agent be the registrant or someone from the registrant's organization.

Contextual advertising by Google. Website publishers earn a portion of the advertising revenue for placing Google sponsored links on their site.

An evaluation carried out to establish the potential market value of a domain name. Since the market for domain names is still in its infancy, different companies may arrive at very different appraisal values for the same domain name. Therefore, appraisals should be used as a rough guide to the value of a domain name, but should not be taken too seriously.

The process of verifying the identity of an individual or organization. Authentication enables someone to verify that individuals and organizations are who they say they are. Authentication allows the recipient in an electronic transaction to be confident of both the identity of the sender and the integrity of the message.

A process to verify that an individual or organization that has requested an action actually has the right to make the request. Requiring a password to modify a domain names' registration information is an example of authorization.

As used by InterNIC, the billing contact/agent contact is the person or role account designated to receive the invoice for domain name registration fees and renewal (re-registration) fees. The billing contact should be in a position to ensure prompt payment of fees.

A company in the business of buying and selling domain names. Domain name brokers usually act as facilitators between buyers and sellers, but very rarely buy for their own account. Note that many companies call themselves "brokers" because it basically sounds good, though all they really do is list domain names for sale on their site, with contact information... only a small minority of companies calling themselves brokers provides full brokerage service, such as escrow.

The top level domain originally intended for "commercial" entities. One of the worldwide top level domain, in which any person or organization may register a domain name.

A standard two-letter abbreviation for the name of a country. It is used with domain names with locations outside the United States. For example, "ca" in "domainmart.com.ca" refers to Canada. For a complete list of country codes, click here.

The illegal act of buying up domain names and “sitting” on them with the intent of making a large profit off the sell. Cybersquatters will often buy out large quantities of names, trademarks, or highly marketable names to try to make a buck or prevent others from lawful use of the name.

A top-level domain containing a 2-character abbreviation as defined by ISO 3166-1 (Codes for the Representation of Names of Countries and Their Subdivisions). As of November 1999 there were 243 country code top level domains (ccTLDs) registered. Some examples are .us for the United States, .ca for Canada, .jp for Japan, .de for Germany, etc. ccTLDs are often contrasted to generic top level domains (gTLDs). ccTLDs often have more restrictive registration requirements including regional requirements whereas gTLDs tend to be open to all registrants around the world.

The process of removing a domain name from the zone files for the top level domains. When a domain name is deactivated, the Domain Name System (DNS) will no longer have the information needed to resolve the domain name to its corresponding Internet Protocol (IP) number(s), effectively disabling the domain name as a tool for locating the related computers or organizations. InterNIC refers to this status as being "On Hold." The domain name record, however, remains in InterNIC' domain name database.

The process of removing a domain name and its corresponding record from the Domain Name System (DNS) and InterNIC' domain name database. A deleted domain name cannot be used to locate computers on the Internet and will be made available for other parties to register on a first-come, first-served basis. A domain name may be deleted at the request of the domain name registrant, as a result of non-payment of fee, or due to circumstances particular to individual cases.

A previously registered domain name whose registration has been cancelled by the registrar, possibly due to a dispute over ownership or a breach of contract. A dropped domain is available for registration by the public.

The business or registrar responsible for a domain name’s server and keeping their web site “live.”

It is a process of converting a domain name’s traffic to money. A monetization company places ads on domain name WebPages. Advertisers pay the monetization company a fee, which is currently based on pay-per-click (PPC), i.e., every time a visitor to the domain name clicks on a link, the domain name owner earns money.

A domain-name is your own cyber-estate. This estate, just like its physical counterpart, has its value depending on its address (name) and its content. You can charge your visitors or give them a free tour, or run a side business as part of the estate. Just like a 5th Avenue address is limited and also is more valuable than the vast majority of other addresses, the value of your domain-name can vary from a few dollars to -- well, some are going for a million dollars. We cannot tell you what furniture, art work, or side business to have on your cyber-estate, but your address would surely enhance the value of its content, or might actually destroy its value if the name doesn't attract clients. On a technical level, it is an addressing construct used for identifying and locating computers on the Internet. Domain names provide a system of easy-to-remember Internet addresses, which can be translated by the Domain Name System (DNS) into the numeric addresses (Internet Protocol (IP)) numbers) used by the network. A domain name is hierarchical and often conveys information about the type of entity using the domain name. A domain name is simply a label that represents a domain, which is a subset of the total domain name space. Domain names at the same level of the hierarchy must be unique; for example there can be only one com at the top level of the hierarchy, and only one DomainMart.com at the next level of the hierarchy.

Disputes that arise over conflicting positions as to who has the right to register a specific domain name. Disputes often occur when a domain name that is the same, or similar to, a valid registered trademark is registered by a party that is not the owner of the registered trademark. A central factor in domain name disputes is the fact that domain names at the same level of the hierarchy must be unique. You might want to consult InterNIC' Domain Name Dispute Policy.

The legally binding contract between InterNIC, the registrar for com, net, org, and edu, domains, and the individual or organization applying for a domain name. The Domain Name Registration Agreement must be completed and submitted electronically to register a new domain name with InterNIC. The Domain Name Registration Agreement is also the form used to update and modify information in a domain name record.

Domain Name Space

An Internet addressing scheme that is hierarchical in nature and uses a "tree" structure to organize information that describes networks and computers. The domain name space is the sum total of domain names that currently represent networks and computers, as well as all of the possible domain names - not yet in use - which may potentially represent networks and computers. Also, the realm of networks, computers, and other network devices that can be described and represented by the Domain Name System (DNS).

A local database that translates domain names to Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. It is much easier for humans to remember and use names than IP numbers, which are what computers need to find each other on the Internet. Individual Internet computers around the globe maintain their specific portion of this database, and the data held in each portion of the database is made available to all computers and users on the Internet. The DNS comprises computers, data files, software, and people working together. When you enter [www.DomainMart.com] in your browser, the local DNS server finds a match and connects your to the site. Most people who access the internet from home use an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP typically assigns Internet Protocol (IP) numbers dynamically to these users. That is, they have a different IP number each time they log on to the internet. This allows a provider to use a limited number of addresses for all of their users as the ISPs total subscriber base is never logged in at once. To be able to register a domain name, your ISP must assign you a static IP number (one that never changes). This is usually an additional cost. Of course, you still need a computer system that will host your domain. Most ISPs offer domain hosting.

Registries require the use of name servers or hosts for every domain registered. In other words, every domain name has to be linked to a name server for it to be valid. Some people do not have their own name servers, therefore Domain Bank offers 'domain parking' (name parking) on its servers. It is a convenient way to hold or 'park' domain name(s) for an extended amount of time. For Example of a parking program you can sign up with and begin earning revenue with your domain names is: parkingsite.com

The SnapBack domain backorder service can acquire a registered domain name that subsequently becomes available for public registration. There is no initial fee for placing a backorder and you will only be charged if SnapNames is successful in securing such domain on your behalf. If a domain name that is sought via the SnapBack service becomes available for public registration by its deletion from the applicable registry operator, the SnapBack service will make commercially reasonable efforts to acquire the domain name and register it through one of our registrar partners on your behalf.

The top of the hierarchy or root in the Domain Name System (DNS).

A previously registered domain name whose registration was allowed to lapse by the original owner, who refused to pay the renewal fee. The domain name returned to the "available" pool of domain names.

The top level domain designated for four-year, degree-granting colleges and universities.

A process to redirect your incoming mail to a specific mailbox. For example, if you have a number of email addresses, forwarding all your email to a single mailbox makes keeping tracking of them much easier, as you only need to check one mailbox, rather than checking all of them individually. Consult your ISP for fees.

A third party service that will essentially hold on to the buyer’s payment when selling a domain name, thereby protecting both the buyer and seller.

A domain that has not been reregistered by the owner in the grace period allotted eventually becomes expired, or unusable by the owner, and is placed into the pool of available names again.

The top level domain designated for agencies and branches of the United States Federal Government. State and local governments in the United States should use the us top level country code domain. Prior to October 1, 1997, registration in gov was handled by InterNIC; the General Services Administration (GSA) began handling registration in the top level domain gov starting October 1, 1997.

A domain name that has not been reregistered by its owner, but not yet in the pool of available names may be said to be on hold status.

Non-profit organization in charge of overseeing domain name disputes and maintaining overall control of the domain name system.

The name given to a project that originated under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation (NSF). Under the current agreement with the U.S. Government, InterNIC, Inc., as the InterNIC, provides domain name registration services in ".com", ".net", ".org", and ".edu".

Placing a link to another website on your own site in exchange for a return link back. Also known as reciprocal linking. Link Popularity A measure of how "popular" a web page is on the internet as measured by the number of inbound links pointing to your web page. Link popularity is one of the main factors used to help determine search engine rankings.

The top level domain designated for United States military entities.

Also called a host (name server). A computer that has both the software and the data (zone file) needed to resolve domain names to Internet Protocol (IP) numbers.

Providing individuals or organizations with domain name-to-Internet Protocol (IP) number resolution by maintaining and making available the hardware, software, and data needed to perform this function. Many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operate name server and provide their customers with name service when they register a domain name. Most individuals are not in a position to operate a name server on their own and will need to make arrangements for name service with an ISP or some other person or organization. net

The top level domain designated for entities and computers that represent part of the Internet's infrastructure. Originally intended for use by Network Information Centers (NICs), Network Operations Centers (NOCs), administrative computers (such as a name server) and network node computers. One of the worldwide top level domains.

The top level domain designated for miscellaneous entities that do not fit under any of the other top level domains. Typically used for non-profit organizations. One of the worldwide top level domains.

Search Engines This is a traffic generating method where a search engine or directory places your link in their searchable database and charges you a fee every time your URL comes up in a search and it gets clicked on. The amount of the fee that you pay is usually determined by bidding on keywords or key phrases.

Pool.com offers 2 major services to help you acquire and sell domains. Our Deleting Domains service allows you to backorder domains for free! We will monitor expiring and deleting domains every day and will attempt to secure the domains you want as soon as they become available. Their Domain Marketplace allows you to buy and sell your own domains.

On Domain Bank's Domain Name Service Agreement, the section where the registrant indicates the host name and Internet Protocol (IP) number of the name server that will contain authoritative information for the domain name and will be used to resolve that domain name to its corresponding IP number(s). The designation of "primary" means that this name server will be used first and will be relied upon before any of the other name servers that may be listed on the Domain Name Service Agreement. The primary server section of the Agreement is a required section and the domain name registration will not be processed unless this section of the Domain Name Service Agreement is completed properly.

The individual or organization that registers a specific domain name with InterNIC. This individual or organization holds the right to use that specific domain name for a specified period of time, provided certain conditions are met and the registration fees are paid. This person or organization is the "legal entity" bound by the terms of the Domain Name Registration Agreement.

A Registrant Name Change Agreement (RNCA) is a document by which a domain name registrant changes its name, as it appears in InterNIC' records. Specifically, the RNCA must be used if the Registrant wishes to: Correct a typographical or other minor error in the Registrant's name; Change the Registrant's legal name; or Transfer the domain name to another party. A copy http://www.networksolutions.com/makechanges/rnca/agreement.html

A business that is given permission to register domain names on behalf of anyone wishing to obtain one. Registrars must be accredited by ICANN, and are only given permission to registrar certain top level domains. Registrars collect fees, maintain record information, and manage registration, re-registration, and expiration of domains.

The process through which individuals and organizations obtain a domain name. Registration of a domain name enables the individual or organization to use that particular domain name for a specified period of time, provided certain conditions are met and payment for services is made. Registering of a new domain name with InterNIC is accomplished by completing and submitting the Domain Name Registration Agreement.

The charge for registering, a domain name. InterNIC' registration fee covers the cost of processing the initial registration and maintaining the domain name record for two years. For domain names with registration dates on or after April 1, 1998, the fee is $70.00 USD. After the initial two-year period, the domain name is subject to renewal (re-registration) and the renewal (re-registration) fee will be due on an annual basis if the registrant wishes to renew the domain name's registration.

Forms that are used to submit and process registration requests. These forms are used to register new domain names, new contacts for domain names, and new hosts (name servers) as well as to update domain name, contact, and host records. There are both Web versions and plain text (ASCII) versions of the forms. You can obtain the forms from http://***********************

A registry is responsible for delegating Internet addresses such as Internet Protocol (IP) numbers and domain names, and keeping a record of those addresses and the information associated with their delegation. Examples of regional IP registries include Asian-Pacific Network Information Center (APNIC), American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN), and Reseaux IP Europeens (RIPE). Examples of domain name registries include InterNIC' InterNIC operation (.com, .net, and .org) and the ISO 3166 country code registries (e.g., .fr, .de, .uk, and .us).

The process of reinitiating a domain name's registration for a specified period of time. Renewing an existing domain name with InterNIC is accomplished by simply paying the renewal (re-registration) fee which covers one year of continued registration and maintenance, and agreeing to be bound by the terms and conditions of the then existing Domain Name Registration Agreement, including the Domain Name Dispute Policy.

The charge for renewing an existing domain name registration. InterNIC' renewal (re-registration) fee covers one year of maintenance for the domain name record and is assessed each year on the anniversary of the original registration. For domain names with anniversary dates on or after April 1, 1998, the fee is $35.00 USD.

A notice sent to registrants 60 days before the anniversary of their registration date to let them know that their domain name will be due for renewal (re-registration) and that an invoice will be sent for the renewal (re-registration) fees.

The date on which the periodic maintenance fee paid for a given domain name runs out. On or before this date, the domain name owner must pay another 1-10+ years of domain name maintenance fees in order to keep the rights to the domain name. If the renewal date is allowed to pass without payment, the domain name becomes expired and will eventually drop.

A company/person that sells domain names through registry services provided by an ICANN approved registrar.

A site which searches the web for sites which are relevant for a given search query.

The process of optimizing a web page for high search engine rankings for a particular search term or set of search terms.

In the Domain Name System (DNS), the next highest level of the hierarchy underneath the top level domains. In a domain name, that portion of the domain name that appears immediately to the left of the top level domain. For example, the DomainMart in DomainMart.com.

Paid advertising which displays next to the natural search results. Customers can click on the ad to visit the advertiser's website. This is how the search engines make their money. Advertisers set their ads up to display whenever someone searches for a word which is related to their product or service. These ads look similar to the natural search results, but are normally labeled "Sponsored Links", and normally take up a smaller portion of the window. These ads work on a Pay-Per-Click (PPC) basis (i.e. the advertiser only pays when someone clicks on their ad).

Typically known as a "domain within a domain", subdomains are individual Web addresses built upon a pre-existing domain name (such as clientname.yourhostingcompany.com). As a reseller, you will have the option of assigning subdomains to clients if they do not choose to have a domain name.

In the Domain Name System (DNS, the next highest level of the hierarchy underneath the second level domains. It is that portion of the domain name that appears two segments to the left of the top level domain. Third level domains are not the portion of an email address that appears in front of the @ symbol - for example, the webmaster in support@DomainMart.com is not a third level domain. [see also: Second Level Domain, Top Level Domain.

In the Domain Name System (DNS), the highest level of the hierarchy after the root. In a domain name, that portion of the domain name that appears furthest to the right. For example, the com in DomainMart.com.

When you register a domain name you must specify a technical contact for that domain. This individual will be responsible for any technical issues regarding the domain name. The technical contact may be the same as the billing or administrative contact.

TLD is the last part of the domain name. For example, the .com in www.mysite.com is the top level domain. (‘mysite’ would be the second-level domain). In the Domain Name System (DNS), the highest level of the hierarchy above second level domains. Our domain name - DomainBank.com - for example is part of the Internet address for Domain Bank, Inc. The Domain Bank part is the second level domain while the .com is the Top Level Domain. Second level domain names are what you register by or on behalf of registrants (or name holders) in a Top Level Domain registry. There are two types of Top Level Domains. The most common type is Generic or gTLDs, such as .COM, .NET, .ORG. New gTLDs such as .NOM, .INFO, or .WEB may be introduced sometime in the near future. The other type of TLD is the ccTLD (country code top level domains) which are assigned to all countries and their dependencies. Every TLD registry - generic or country code - has its own prices, policies, and procedures that registrants (name holders) in that registry are subject to. It is important to know and be prepared to accept these before registering name(s) in a particular registry.

A word, phrase, graphic image, or other symbol used to represent a business, commercial, or other organization. Trademarks are used to identify the organization to the public and to consumers and are intended to identify the organization's products and services as well. To be recognized as a trademark, the word, phrase, graphic image, or symbol must be registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (in the United States) or, in the case of other countries, with the appropriate authority for that country.

The visitors and page views on a website.

The process of changing the party whom is listed as the domain name registrant. The party taking over the domain name is responsible for paying a new registration fee. Domain name transfers are processed using the Registrant Name Change Agreement (RNCA).

Domain names can be sold to another organization or sometimes the name of a company might change. Most registries require a process by which permission from the old owner to hand over control to the new owner is authorized. The procedure for change of ownership is known a Transfer. Policies and procedures on domain name transfer can vary from registry to registry.

A searchable database maintained by VeriSign, which contains information about networks, networking organizations, domain names, and the contacts associated with them for the com, org, net, edu, and ISO 3166 country code top level domains. Also, the protocol, or set of rules, that describes the application used to access the database. Other organizations have implemented the Whois protocol and maintain separate and distinct Whois databases for their respective domains.

public database mandated by ICANN - the regulating agency over the domain registration industry. This database was intended to help people contact domain registrants for valid reasons (ex. Legal reasons).

A domain name registration add-on service offered by NameSecure that masks the publicly available data published to the WHOIS database to reduce spam, and sidetrack scammers and other nefarious sorts who would misuse that data for their own personal gain.

A search of a root server to determine if a domain name has been registered and, if it has, who the owner is.

The Uniform Dispute Resolution policy is a document which governs how domain name disputes will be resolved within the gTLD namespace. It defines the conditions under which a genuine dispute may arise, and provides guidelines for administrative proceedings to settle the issue, outside of a court where possible. All registrants registering domains through OpenSRS (or any other registrar) are bound by the UDRP.