Open top level domains
This project is an effort to supply the world with free top level domains.
The goal of this project is to implement a system of free top level domains. Collaborators will learn about programming, networking, distributed computing, law, politics, community development, etc.
Exactly which domain or domains that will be used is up to the community or the implementers to decide.
Tentative system mechanics
The basic mechanism of the system is as follows, presuming there are no legal obstacles: One possibility is the implementation of a Firefox plugin that will forward appropriate queries to a server that will then match the query with the site's server's IP address or URL.
The FTLD system would require people to install a Firefox plugin in order to be able to connect to the FTLD network.
Alternatively, with cooperation of ICANN this could simply be implemented normally.
If there are multiple FTLD's then there could be different ways in which domains are allocated. That is there could be different rules for what is allowed.
Proposed free domains are: .ft (free TLD's) .wd (wiki domains) .world .earth .fd (free domains) .fcom .fnet .forg.
Project status
- Looking for technically savvy individuals willing to work on the project
- Searching for those who would know how to setup a link between Firefox and a server
- Sandbox Server is up and can potentially host the initial test server/backend
Domain allocation methods
- Community consensus
- First come first serve
- You create an account and you can simply type in a domain and a forwarding address
- Basic rules
- No spam sites
- No illegal content
Administration
There would be no arbitrage or made for Adsense sites. Additionally, there could be other controls:
- There could be domains that are meant for specific purposes or that prohibit specific purposes
- Domains could have a wiki style community consensus. ... Is a site a waste, or providing no useful information, then if that is a good domain the community could decide to give it to a user of the FTLD system that will use the domain more for the benefit of all
- Distributed servers could be used
- This could effectively bring the cost of implementing FTLD to nothing aside from time and negligible resources
Proposed guidelines and policies
These could vary for different FTLD's
- All content under the domain under a free license CC or GFDL
- No spam
- No illegal materials
- Anything goes (aside from spam or illegal materials)