ABSTRACT
A domain name is a hierarchically structured character string that serves as an Internet address. The "real" Internet Protocol (lP) address is a string of numbers that is difficult to use and remember (e.g., 128.82.75.52). Internet users rely on domain names, which take the form of memorable and sometimes catchy words, to stand in their place. The uniqueness requirement creates an exclusivity that has important economic consequences-no two users can use exactly the same character string as a domain name.
