Neustar is proposing to make available the currently reserved one-character and two-character second-level .US domain names. The primary goal of the proposed program is to allocate desirable one- and two-character domains in a manner that increases use and awareness of the usTLD, which will in turn enhance the attractiveness of the in the marketplace. The domains proposed for release would exclude the two-character second-level domains that currently support the legacy locality namespace.

Neustar’s proposed program for .US is identical to the successfully administered program in .BIZ, and includes three components: (1) an RFP round that invites interested registrants to propose specific plans for use and promotion; (2) an Auction round that offers domains not allocated during the RFP round; and (3) a First-come, First-served (FCFS) release of any domains not allocated during the RFP or Auction rounds. Revenue generated by this program will be used primarily to further promote and grow the usTLD and to support key Internet security and child safety initiatives in the usTLD, including expansion and improvement of the KIDS.US domain space.

Through the initial RFP round, we will identify candidates with the most beneficial and meaningful combination of quality, innovation, brand recognition, financial commitment to the domain name, and ability to deliver in a timely manner. Once the RFP round is concluded, Neustar will conduct an auction of any remaining names, with the majority of the proceeds being used by Neustar to promote awareness, usage and uptake of the usTLD and to promote Internet security and child on-line safety using the usTLD.  For any names not allocated during either the RFP or auction rounds, Neustar will announce a release date and allow open, first-come, first-served registration where all normal usTLD business rules apply. Our proposed implementation will identify individuals and businesses that are willing and able to commit resources to promote their brand using a desirable usTLD domain, which will help raise awareness of the value of usTLD and promote competition in the domain name marketplace.

Neustar believes that the proposed service offers the following benefits:

1.    Enhanced competition among  registry operators
2.    Increased choice for registrants
3.    Increased growth, usage, marketing, promotion, and awareness of the usTLD
4.    Increased revenue and marketing resources, including registrar rebate programs, to return a portion of the proceeds to the user community.
5.    Increased funds for support of Internet Security and Online Child Safety Programs.

We welcome input and comments about this proposed offering.