Knowledge Base

Who Can Register .XXX Domain Names?

A Detailed Guide

The .XXX domain extension was created to host websites providing adult entertainment content online. This extension aims to provide an easily recognizable identity for both consumers and providers in the adult entertainment industry, while also promoting responsible behavior such as child protection and combating illegal content. So, who can register and activate this special domain name?

What is the "Sponsored Community" for .XXX Domain Names?

The core concept behind the .XXX domain name is the definition of a "Sponsored Community." This community is defined by the ICM Registry and includes individuals and organizations that provide services to the adult entertainment sector.

Who are the Members of the Sponsored Community?

Members of the sponsored community generally fall into the following categories:

1. Providers: Individuals, businesses, legal entities, and organizations that provide online, sexually explicit adult entertainment (e.g., adult webmasters, performers, studios, shop owners, club operators).

2. Representatives: Individuals or organizations representing providers (e.g., lawyers, managers, consultants, accountants, affiliates).

3. Service Providers: Individuals or organizations providing products or services to providers and representatives (e.g., adult content hosting services, distribution companies, payment processors, makeup artists, stylists).

Important Note: The definition can be quite broad. For instance, a company that produces pencils used by people in the adult industry could even fall under this definition.

.XXX Domain Name Registration and Activation Process

Anyone can register a .XXX domain name, but to resolve the domain name on the internet (i.e., connect it to a website or email service), some additional steps must be completed.

1. Domain Name Registration: You can purchase your desired .XXX domain name from any domain name registrar. At this stage, you will be asked to "self-identify" whether you are a member of the community.

2. ICM Registry Membership Application (Mandatory): After registering the domain name, the ICM Registry, responsible for .XXX domain registrations, will send a "membership invitation" to the email address registered in your WHOIS information. You must follow the instructions in this email to complete the free membership application process with the ICM Registry. This process typically requires you to provide your date of birth (you must be 18 or older), contact information, and confirm that you meet the sponsored community definition. Phone number verification may also be required.

3. Membership ID: Once your membership application is approved, the ICM Registry will provide you with a Membership ID (Token). This ID is associated with your account, and you can use the same ID for multiple .XXX domain names if you have them.

4. Processing the Membership ID to the Domain Name: You need to enter this Membership ID into the "Membership" field within your domain name's registration information. Once this step is complete, your domain name's DNS resolution will be activated, and you can launch your website.

Defensive Registrations

For individuals or organizations who are not members of the sponsored community but wish to prevent their brands or names from being used on adult content sites, a defensive registration option is available.

• When you make such a registration, your domain name does not require ICM Registry membership and does not resolve to a website (meaning it cannot host an active site).

• It is solely used to prevent the corresponding domain name from being registered by someone else with the .XXX extension.

• A normal registration fee is also paid for these types of registrations.

Why the .XXX Extension?

The .XXX extension aims to separate adult content from the rest of the internet. This allows for:

• Easier Filtering: Internet filtering software and parental control tools can more easily identify and block .XXX websites.

• Trust and Responsibility: It serves as a signal for businesses in the adult industry to adhere to certain ethical guidelines and increases transparency within the sector.

• Consumer Recognition: Users can infer the nature of the content by looking at a .XXX domain name.

.XXX Domain Registration with Egeset

At Egeset, we are here to assist you with registering .XXX domain names and providing information about the necessary membership processes. If you have an adult content project or wish to register a .XXX domain name to protect your brand, we can provide you with the right guidance throughout this process. However, remember that to actively use a .XXX domain name, you must declare that you comply with the "Sponsored Community" rules set by the ICM Registry and complete the membership process.