- The non-profit NEAR Foundation, associated with the NEAR protocol, is collaborating with interoperable domain name company D3 Global to apply for a .near top-level domain (TLD) in the upcoming ICANN application window.
- Top-level domains (TLDs) are the highest level in the hierarchy of root-level domains, examples being .com, .net, and .org.
- Applicants must meet specific requirements such as operational, technical, and financial capabilities to be eligible for a TLD. The application process includes a non-refundable fee of $185,000 and an additional quarterly fee of $6,250.
- D3 Global has experience in operating TLDs and has successfully managed over 300 TLDs, including .xyz and .inc.
- If NEAR Foundation obtains the .near TLD, it can use a single domain for its website, email, and wallet addresses, offering more streamlined and integrated operations.
- The collaboration aims to extend the power of NEAR accounts across the internet, combining Web3 identity with existing internet infrastructure, potentially driving mainstream adoption.
