I’m sorry for any confusion, but “HELSINKI” is actually not a top-level domain (TLD). Top-level domains are the names at the end of web addresses, like “.com”, “.org”, or “.edu”. They can also represent certain geographic areas, like “.us”, “.eu” or “.jp”.
According to the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), which coordinates the global internet’s systems of unique identifiers, the currently available and recognized top-level domains do not include a “.helsinki” or similar (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority, 2021).
However, there has been an increasing trend of cities applying for their own specialized TLDs, for example, “.nyc” for New York City, “.tokyo” for Tokyo, and “.berlin” for Berlin. The benefit of having these geographic TLDs is to reinforce local identity and marketing advantages for businesses and individuals who want to emphasize their connection to an area (ICANN, 2014). ICANN (the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), the organization responsible for managing domain names, opened up applications for new TLDs in 2012.
If Helsinki were to apply and be approved for a TLD, the technical description would involve a complex web of DNS (Domain Name System) servers across the internet worldwide directing traffic destinations based on the .helsinki TLD. ICANN’s application process for new TLDs also requires at least one primary and two secondary name servers for the new TLD operating continuously. This ensures reliability and stability of the domain (ICANN, 2012).
For now, companies, individuals, or entities in Helsinki wanting a web presence can utilize Finland’s country code top-level domain (ccTLD), “.fi” (ICANN, 2011).
In conclusion, while “HELSINKI” is not currently a TLD, the rising trend of cities obtaining their personalized TLDs might see a “.helsinki” in the future. However, this would be dependent on a successful application to, and acceptance by, ICANN, adhering to their vigorous and demanding technical requirements.
Sources:
1. Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (2021). Root Zone Database.
2. ICANN (2014). What to Expect During the Application Process. New gTLD Program.
3. ICANN (2012). gTLD Applicant Guidebook.
4. ICANN (2011). Delegation of the .fi domain representing Finland to Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority.
