Domain names - general information

62.      What is a Domain Name?

Domain names are the familiar and easy to remember names used in lieu of the difficult to remember Internet Protocol (IP) address numbers. IP addresses are used to locate computers on the Internet.

63.      What is the Domain Name System (DNS)?

The Internet Domain Name system consists of an organized, hierarchical directory of all Domain Names and their corresponding computers.

64.      What is a top-level domain?

A top-level domain is used to designate the type of organization or the country of origin. Generic top level designators are commonly three letter suffixes like .com, .net, .org, .edu. Country code top level domains are commonly two letter suffixes like .ca, .us, .uk, etc., as assigned by the United Nations.

65.      How does .ca differ from .COM?

.ca is the country code Top Level Domain (ccTLD) designating Canada. .com is the generic Top Level Domain (gTLD) designating Commercial. The policies and administration of the .ca Domain Name will be set by CIRA and governed by Canadian law. The gTLDs are managed in the United States under American law.