General Availability is when new domain extensions are released to the general public. Domain inventory is searchable, and new domains can be registered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pre-Registration for General Availability occurs after the Priority Pre-Registration period and enables you to preorder new domain extensions so that the domains you choose get submitted the moment General Availbility starts.

Also called Landrush, Priority Pre-Registration enables you to register new domain extensions immediately after the Trademark Holder phase but before the domain enters General Availability.

The Early Access Period (EAP) takes place the first seven days of a new TLD’s General Availability. During this time, domain names can be registered on a first-come, first-served non-restricted basis. The EAP period is applicable only to specific new domain extensions.

Trademark Holder Registration (also known as Sunrise) is available only to verified trademark holders. This phase is the first chance anyone has to register a new domain. However, to register a domain during this period you must already have your trademark(s) validated with the Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH). After your trademark is validated, the TMCH will send you an SMD (Signed Mark Data) file that you must use to complete your registration.