A Domain Name is a location or address on the Internet where information can be sent or received. There are different types of domain names, and the structure of a domain name indicates the name, type of organization, and country of origin for that domain name (but physical location of the organization is not necessary). Domain names are considered to be valuable assets by businesses, particularly when a domain name has established a reputation on the Internet and is frequently visited because the users of the Internet and search engines know the site’s location.

Once the suitable domain name is chosen, a search can be conducted to find out whether the name is available for the registration. As registration is on the first-come basis, it is important to secure registration once a domain name is chosen. If not, it is open for anyone wishing to use the name for any purpose, to secure the name first. In few instances, a trademark search should also be made. This is to avoid the situation of securing a domain name but finding out later that it cannot be used as someone else has a trademark registration covering the type of goods or services you are marketing. Simply securing a domain name does not guarantee that a trademark owner will not object to its use.

Once registered, the domain name is valid for a year. Renewal fees are payable annually to maintain the domain name on the register.

By securing a domain name registration, it is not enough to control the use of trademark. When restricting domain name menace, the control of a valued trademark can be achieved by having a registered trademark. The use of trademark by others in its website or as a domain name can be prevented or at least controlled in dependence with a registered trademark.