What is a domain name landrush period?

A domain name Landrush period is a phase in the launch process of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) where interested parties can apply to register specific domain names before they are made available to the general public during the general availability phase. Here's how the domain name Landrush period typically works:

### Purpose and Characteristics:

1. **Purpose**: The Landrush period is designed to allow individuals and organizations to secure domain names that may be considered valuable or premium before they are open for general registration. It serves as a way to allocate desirable domain names fairly among interested parties.

2. **Duration**: The Landrush period usually occurs after the Sunrise period (where trademark holders can register domain names matching their trademarks) and before the general availability phase.

3. **Application Process**:
   - Interested parties submit applications for specific domain names they wish to register during the Landrush period.
   - Applications may be subject to specific rules set by the registry, such as pricing tiers for premium domain names or eligibility requirements for certain types of domains.

4. **Priority Systems**:
   - Some registries may implement priority systems during Landrush where applications are prioritized based on criteria such as highest bid amount (in cases of auction-based Landrush), first-come, first-served basis, or other predefined rules.

5. **Fees**: Typically, there is an application fee associated with each domain name application during the Landrush period. This fee can vary depending on the domain registry and the perceived value of the domain name.

6. **Outcome**:
   - At the end of the Landrush period, if there are multiple applications for the same domain name, the registry may resolve conflicts based on the rules established for that specific TLD.
   - Successful applicants will secure the right to register the domain names they applied for during the Landrush period once the general availability phase begins.

### Key Considerations:

- **Value of Domain Names**: Landrush periods are particularly relevant for domain names considered valuable due to their keywords, relevance, or potential for resale.
 
- **Regulatory and Registry Policies**: Each registry may have specific policies and procedures governing the Landrush period, including eligibility requirements, pricing structures, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

- **Opportunity**: It provides an opportunity for individuals and businesses to secure desirable domain names early in the launch process of new gTLDs, which may have broader availability restrictions or higher demand once they enter general availability.

In summary, the domain name Landrush period is a phase in the launch of new generic top-level domains where interested parties can apply to register specific domain names before they become generally available to the public. It's a strategic opportunity to secure valuable domain names during the early stages of a TLD's introduction.