Canadian domain names refer to the URL’s (Uniform Resource Locators) of websites owned and managed by individuals and companies located in Canada. In general, Canadian domain names contain the extension ".ca"; hence, they are usually called .ca domain names.
An institution focused on matters regarding Canadian domain names is CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority). CIRA is an organization which presides over the registration of Canadian domain names. In addition, it establishes domain name guidelines, assigns .ca URL’s, runs the database for Canadian domain names, settles domain-related disputes, and addresses complaints about registration firms.
A person or a company that plans to acquire a Canadian domain name should first find a domain registrar which has been certified by CIRA. In place of its client, the domain registrar will submit a registration request to CIRA. As part of its registration rules, CIRA will require the registrar to give an annual fee which starts at Cdn. $8.50 plus taxes. The registrar in turn has the freedom to outline the fee structure for its clients.
CIRA maintains an online look-up feature through which registrars and clients can make queries on the .ca database to find out whether a particular domain name has been taken or is still available. Once CIRA has approved the request and the domain name is available, the client can complete his registration process, which includes accepting a registration agreement on the CIRA website. After which, the name shall be registered and the client will receive a confirmation from CIRA. Lastly, a domain name can be registered for a period of one to ten years.
