ICann has given the go-ahead to plans for what has been described as a "virtual red-light district", with the creation of a .xxx TLD. Negotiations are to begin with ICM Registry Inc, which will run the domain. It is headed up by a British businessman, Stuart Lawley.
It was suggested the first of the domains could be up and running before the end of this year. Each will cost $60 - something which would seem small change to an industry which is worth some $12bn a year. Experts hope many adult sites will move over from .coms voluntarily, making it easier for worried parents to filter out porn. But with a much higher price than for a traditional .com, it"s not clear how many will make the switch.
The new TLD joins others recently approved, including .jobs and .travel.