.net is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) used on the Internet's Domain Name System. The .net gTLD is currently operated by VeriSign.
.net was one of the original top-level domains (despite not being mentioned in RFC 920), created in January 1985. It was initially intended for use by network oriented entities such as Internet service providers. Currently, there are no formal restriction on who can register a .net domain name. Therefore, while still popular with network operators, it is often used by arbitrary entities.
Operation of .net from 2005
VeriSign, the operator of .net after acquiring Network Solutions, will have its operational contract expire on June 30, 2005. ICANN, the organisation responsible for domain management, sought proposals from organisations to operate it for at least six years beyond that date.
On 19 January, 2005, ICANN announced it had received 5 bids [1] from the following organisations:
On 28 March, 2005, ICANN subsequently announced[2] an independent evaluator had determined Verisign was the best choice to continue operating the .net registry.
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