The .ORG transition: Public Interest Registry

On January 1, 2003, PIR will become the new .ORG registry operator, taking over from VeriSign Global Registry Services. The registry maintains the authoritative directory of all .ORG domain names. The registry also generates the "zone file," which allows computers to route Internet traffic to and from .ORG domains around the world.

If you've registered a .ORG domain, there's nothing you need to do for the transition. The transition will happen in the background, your site will continue to function normally, and you'll have your relationship with your chosen domain name registrar.

If you're a domain name registrar, we'll be working with you closely to make the transition a smooth one.

The transition will also bring you a number of benefits. Here's what PIR has in store.

Technical improvements:

• When you register a .ORG domain, you'll be able to use it within minutes. Currently it can take a day before a new .ORG domain becomes active on the Internet.
  
  
• All WHOIS data for .ORG domain names will eventually be centralized into a single, authoritative database. (Registration data currently resides in more than 100 separate, publicly accessible registrar databases.) This will make it easier for you to look up the owner of a domain name.
  
  
• PIR will employ the most efficient, advanced registry technologies, such as the Extensible Provisioning Protocol (EPP), through our service provider Afilias.

Public service:

• PIR will devote .ORG registration revenues to outreach and educational programs. These will help not-for-profit organizations leverage the Internet, benefit people in developing countries, and more.

Responsiveness to the community:

• PIR will involve the .ORG community in discussions of issues that affect it. We're creating a .ORG Advisory Council to be made up of leaders from the broad spectrum of the noncommercial world. Its members will provide valuable advice and feedback on specific issues that affect the .ORG community.
  
  
• We plan online initiatives to involve the .ORG community. We want you to be informed about and participate in the future of .ORG.
  
  
• PIR will introduce new products for use by .ORG registrants, tailored to their needs.