.网络

CNNIC is applying for the Chinese variant top-level domains (TLDs) of “.网络” to form, together with the existing “.网络”, a unified and trustworthy service system for global Chinese-language users. Both share identical semantics and public interest goals; the only difference lies in simplified and traditional script writing conventions. The variants aim to enable users to write, recognize, and remember domain names in their daily script, thereby preventing access barriers, confusion, or split registration. The existing “.网络” has been operated by CNNIC since 2014. Its mission is to serve the public interest with security, reliability, efficiency, and innovation, offering a borderless Chinese identifier for Internet and digital services. It serves enterprises, institutions, platforms, innovators, and individuals worldwide. Its goals are to lower language barriers for non-Latin-script users, provide intuitive and memorable online gateways, accurately represent Chinese names in the DNS, and promote universal acceptance of Chinese-language websites, emails, and intelligent applications, while safeguarding rights, data, and stability. CNNIC operates a full registry system covering registration, resolution, DNSSEC, data escrow, business continuity, abuse handling, and rights protection, and has long been engaged in Chinese IDN standards, variant management, and universal acceptance efforts. The variant TLDs extend this mission without creating new markets, offering an equivalent experience to variant script users. Intended registrants include organizations and individuals using the variant script, particularly in Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese communities, as well as those seeking unified brand protection across scripts. Intended users are those reading or using the variant script, or switching between Chinese writing systems. Authorizing variants reduces input errors, confusion, and semantic fragmentation, and advances universal acceptance across devices and platforms. CNNIC will govern “.网络” and its variants as a unified set: a single registry operator, backend provider, security framework, and IDN table, with single registrant control, variant label association, lifecycle synchronization, and conflict prevention. Clear guidelines and system upgrades will be provided; testing and monitoring will be continuous. On the application side, CNNIC will partner with registrars, browsers, email providers, and search providers for universal acceptance testing, technical training, and demonstrations targeting public services, SMEs, education, and digital brands. User feedback will be regularly collected and evaluated to refine policies and services. Sustainability rests on lasting linguistic demand: China had 1.125 billion Internet users by the end of 2025, and simplified and traditional scripts will coexist long-term. CNNIC’s existing infrastructure and expertise from operating “.CN”, “.中国”, and “.网络” allow for cost-efficient operation. The variant TLDs will be integrated into long-term budgeting, risk management, emergency response, and compliance systems. With reasonable, non-discriminatory policies, stable registrar channels, and reserved resources, critical functions such as DNS, DNSSEC, and data escrow will be maintained even under slower growth. Through unified governance, continuous technical improvement, ecosystem collaboration, user needs assessment, and full compliance with ICANN policies and the Registry Agreement, “.网络” and its variants will endure as sustainable infrastructure for global Chinese-language communities.