Abstract
The .ad top-level domain (TLD), representing Andorra, underwent a significant policy revision in 2024, transitioning from a restrictive registration framework to a more liberalized system. Effective from October 22, 2024, the updated policy eliminates previous requirements for local presence or trademark ownership, mandates the use of accredited registrars, and adjusts registration periods. This paper examines the new .ad domain registration policy, identifies key changes from the prior framework, and evaluates the implications for accessibility and global adoption.
Introduction
Top-level domains (TLDs) serve as critical identifiers in the digital landscape, reflecting national identity and facilitating online presence. The .ad TLD, administered by Andorra Telecom, has historically been constrained by stringent eligibility criteria, limiting its use primarily to entities with a legal or trademark-based connection to Andorra. However, recent changes, fully implemented on October 22, 2024, mark a pivotal shift toward openness and flexibility. This paper aims to document the specifics of the new .ad registration policy, delineate its departures from the previous system, and assess its potential impact on the TLD’s role in the global domain market.
The New .ad Registration Policy
The revised .ad TLD registration policy, enacted following a transition period from May 22, 2024, to October 22, 2024, introduces several notable features:
- Eligibility Expansion:
- The policy now permits any natural or legal person worldwide to register a .ad domain, irrespective of residency or trademark ownership (Andorra Telecom, 2024). This marks a departure from the prior requirement of Andorran presence or trademark registration with the Andorran Trademarks and Patents Office (OMPA).
- Registrar-Based Registration:
- Registration is now exclusively facilitated through accredited registrars, a shift from direct registration with Andorra Telecom. This change, effective since May 22, 2024, allows both local and international registrars to participate, provided they meet accreditation standards set by the registry.
- Registration Duration and Renewal:
- The minimum registration period has been reduced from two years to one year, with renewals permitted annually up to a maximum of 10 years (Andorra Telecom, 2024). Registrants may opt for manual or automatic renewals, subject to registrar policies.
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Registrants must adhere to the .ad domain regulations, including eligibility (Articles 6 and 7) and usage stipulations (Articles 10 and 11), which prohibit misuse, confusion with public services, or infringement on intellectual property rights (Andorra Telecom, 2024).
Changes from the Previous Policy
The pre-2024 .ad registration framework imposed significant barriers to entry, contrasting sharply with the current policy. Table 1 summarizes the key differences:
Table 1: Comparison of Pre-2024 and Post-2024 .ad TLD Policies
| Aspect | Pre-2024 Policy | Post-2024 Policy (Effective October 22, 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Restricted to Andorran entities or trademark holders | Open to all natural and legal persons globally |
| Trademark Requirement | Mandatory for non-residents, verified by OMPA | Eliminated |
| Registration Process | Direct through Andorra Telecom | Via accredited registrars |
| Validation | Pre-approval required | Immediate processing |
| Minimum Registration | Two years | One year, renewable up to 10 years |
| Pricing | Standardized by registry | Determined by individual registrars |
References
- Andorra Telecom. (2024). I Want a .ad Domain: Registration Details. Retrieved from https://www.domini.ad/en/iwantaad/