What is a domain name?

In essence, a domain name is an internet address. 

If a domain name is available for registration, can I register and use it without difficulty?

Not necessarily. A domain name is an internet address, but it also functions as a trade mark, so use of a domain name could infringe trade mark rights.  If you are in doubt you should consider having trade mark searches conducted before you finalise your domain name.  Minor changes to a trade mark, such as the addition of a hyphen, will not enable you to avoid trade mark issues.

How do I register a domain name?

It is not difficult to register a domain name, but it is not uncommon for companies to have difficulties later when it comes to the renewal or management of a domain name portfolio. For example, employees sometimes register domain names in their personal names, but if they leave the company this can cause significant problems. We can assist with the management of your domain name portfolio to ensure these problems do not arise.

What is ‘cyber-squatting’?

This is when people register desirable domain names in order to prevent others from doing so. Often, the aim is to then offer the domain names for sale for large sums of money. Many owners of well-known brands have been forced to take court action to force cyber-squatters to give up domain names containing their brands. A dispute resolution process has been set up to help resolve such conflicts.