The top-level domain (TLD), “.ikano”, is a brand TLD and falls under the category of Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs), which were expanded in 2014 by ICANN (The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers). It was applied for by the Ikano S.A. as part of the 2012 application window for new gTLDs (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, 2012).
As a brand TLD, the “.ikano” domain space is exclusively used by Ikano S.A. and its subsidiaries. It provides an online domain area for Ikano to offer its services, products and marketing. The “.ikano” TLD can be used by the company to create specific sites for their various initiatives or can be resold to partners that the company approves of.
Regarding the Ikano S.A. company, it offers a range of services such as finance, insurance, real estate, and retail in countries all over Europe. Ikano was originally part of IKEA before becoming an independent group of companies owned by the family of Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA (Ikano, n.d.).
In registering the “.ikano” domain name, the company has cited the goal of protecting its trademark and brand, consolidating digital assets under one unique, authoritative digital space, as well as enhancing customer experience and trust in the digital space (ICANN, 2012). “.ikano” is thus part of a strategy of growth and development for the company.
However, it should be noted that the “.ikano” TLD is not open for public registration. Domains within “.ikano” can be owned and operated only by Ikano S.A. and its approved parties, ensuring that all associated websites are directly related to the company and its operations (ICANN, 2012).
The information resources used in this response include the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the website of Ikano S.A. ICANN is an internationally recognized authority for domain names, while Ikano S.A.‘s website provides granted background information about the company.
In conclusion, within the context of internet domain naming, the “.ikano” top-level domain is exclusively used by Ikano S.A. and its subsidiaries to enhance their global digital presence, protect their brand, and centralize their digital assets.
Sources:
1. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers,“About the Program”,2012. https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/about/program
2. Ikano,“Our History”, n.d. https://www.ikano.com/about-us/our-history
3. Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, “Registry Agreement”, 2012. https://www.icann.org/resources/agreement/ikano-2015-02-19-en
