Question: Isn't it time to do away with TLDs altogether? If domains are there for us users to make our lives easier than IP-numbers could ever do, then why pester us with attachments like .com, .de or whatever?

Nominee Replies

Alf Hansen - posted on 2000-10-08 13:35:05 I see your point. I think the hierarchical structure of domain names is natural for people to use. A completely flat name space as I think you are suggesting, is not a step forward. Hierarchy is better, because then you can in your mind relate a domain name to the TLD, and that will add useful context. Jeanette Hofmann - posted on 2000-10-08 07:27:30 Good question. There are some people who expect the DNS to vanish within a couple of years. I don't think this is likely to happen. However, I'd believe it would be a good idea to expand the name space significantly. This would minimize the pressure on the DNS as exerted by Intellectual Property stakeholders and, perhaps, also prevent ICANN from gaining too much power.