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  • Type
    Generic top-level domain
    Registry
    Intercap Registry
    Operator
    Intercap Registry Inc.
    Launched
    Registration term
    1–10 years
    DNSSEC
    Supported
    IDN
    Supported

    About .box domain

    .box is a proposed generic top-level domain (gTLD) that was applied for during ICANN's New gTLD Program. Two applicants, NS1 Limited and Amazon, submitted applications for the string. The TLD faced name collision concerns identified by ICANN, which placed it on a path requiring further mitigation plans before delegation could proceed. As a proposed product, it has not yet been delegated or made available for public registration.

    Who can register .box domain

    Registration eligibility for .box domains is not yet defined, as the TLD remains a proposed string and is not an active registry. Should it be delegated, eligibility would be determined by the eventual registry operator and ICANN policies. Typically, for a gTLD of this nature, the registry could choose to operate it as an open TLD available to all, or potentially implement restrictions based on its intended use.

    How to register .box domain

    As .box is a proposed TLD and not an active, delegated extension, there is no standard commercial registration process. Domain names under .box cannot be purchased or registered at this time. If the TLD is eventually delegated by ICANN, the successful applicant would become the registry operator and establish a launch plan, which would include phases like Sunrise for trademark holders and General Availability for the public. Registration would then occur through ICANN-accredited registrars following that operator's specific policies.

    Typical uses of .box domain

    If launched, the .box extension would likely be adopted for use cases related to storage, containers, or packaging, drawing from the common meaning of the word "box." Technology companies offering cloud storage, file-sharing services, or subscription box services might find it a relevant and memorable namespace. It could also be used creatively by businesses in logistics, gaming (e.g., loot boxes), or any sector where the term "box" serves as a concise, brandable metaphor for a product or service.

    Tips for registering .box domain

    • Since .box is not yet delegated, there are no established registration terms, pricing, or policies to advise on.
    • Prospective registrants should monitor ICANN and registry announcements for any future delegation and launch details.
    • Should it launch, review the registry's specific policies for Sunrise periods, Landrush auctions, and General Availability timelines.

    Frequently asked questions about .box domain

    Who operates .box domain?The registry for .box domains is Intercap Registry, administered by Intercap Registry Inc..
    Who can register a .box domain?

    As .box is currently a proposed TLD and not an active extension, no one can register a .box domain name. Eligibility will only be established if and when ICANN delegates the string to a registry operator. The future registry's application to ICANN will outline any intended eligibility restrictions, which will become public record during the delegation process.

    Can I transfer a .box domain between registrars?

    Inter-registrar transfers are not applicable for .box domains, as the TLD is not yet delegated or available for registration. Should it become active, standard transfer policies governed by ICANN and the registry operator would apply. These typically involve unlocking the domain at the current registrar and obtaining an authorization code to initiate the transfer at a new one.

    What is the status of the .box application?

    The .box string was applied for by two entities during ICANN's 2012 New gTLD application round. It encountered name collision issues identified in ICANN's mitigation plan, meaning it was not eligible for an accelerated delegation path. Its status remains "proposed," and it requires further resolution of these collision concerns before it can proceed toward delegation and become a live TLD.

    Who applied to operate the .box TLD?

    Two companies applied to operate .box: NS1 Limited, a company based in Hong Kong, and Amazon, through its office in Luxembourg. In ICANN's application process, conflicting applications for the same string typically enter a contention resolution process, which could involve private settlement, auction, or community priority evaluation to determine the sole registry operator.

    What are name collision issues, and how do they affect .box?

    Name collision refers to potential conflicts where a new TLD string matches names already used privately on internal networks, which could cause security or stability problems if the TLD becomes publicly resolvable on the internet. ICANN's mitigation plan flagged .box as having such concerns, requiring the applicants to wait for and adhere to further specific mitigation plans before the TLD can be delegated, delaying its launch.