Nominet is a not-for-profit organisation - what does this mean?
Nominet was not set up and is not constituted to make a profit from its activities. Accordingly its charges are sufficient only to cover its operating costs. However, a surplus is considered appropriate in view of two key requirements. First, sufficient reserves were needed to ensure that all domain name registrations could be maintained for the two years for which they were made. Second, a legal defence fund was required, particularly in view of the fact that Nominet accepts the legal risk on domain name suspensions, transfers and cancellations.
Nominet is a company limited by guarantee - what does this mean?
As a company limited by guarantee, Nominet had no shareholders and pays no dividend. It does have members who join the company and pay a membership fee. The members guarantee £10 each, in the event of insolvency.
Who runs Nominet?
Nominet is managed by a Board comprising up to two executives and four non-executive directors. Of the four, two stand down and are re-elected at each AGM.
How many staff does it have?
Day to day operations are carried out by a staff of around 130, comprising technical, administrative and customer support personnel. Read more about our operational structure.
How is Nominet financed?
Operating costs are covered by the subscriptions of its members and domain name registration fees. We also charge fees for registrar transfers and registrant transfers on a cost recovery basis.
Who are its members?
The current membership is mainly made up of Internet Service Providers but also includes law firms, company formation agents, the police, and specialist consultants.
How many members does it have?
2800.
Is there a limit on the number of members?
No.
Who is eligable for membership?
Any individual or organisation with an interest in the Internet can become a member of Nominet UK on payment of a joining fee and annual subscription.
How do I apply to become a member?
Full membership application details can be found in the Governance section of our web site.
What input do members have in the running of Nominet?
Nominet has a Policy Advisory Body (PAB) which is made up of two non-executive directors, representatives of up to eight appointed organisations plus eight Nominet members who are elected by the membership. The PAB was set up in March 1999 and develops proposals for policies and rules for consideration by the Nominet Board and Nominet members. Informally, every member can communicate with Nominet on a regular basis via an email discussion forum. Formally, members can propose and vote on resolutions at all AGMs and EGMs.
Are there any other benefits to membership?
Nominet members are entitled to a discount on domain name registration fees, as opposed to the fee payable by those registering direct with Nominet. Find out more about becoming a member.