Domain names
This factsheet is intended as an outline of the relevant provisions but it is not comprehensive and should not be relied on as authoritative; in the interests of ease of use, many of the explanations are simplified.
Domain names (e.g. iod.com) are, very broadly speaking, addresses for computers - when you type a domain into your web browser (say), your request will (via various other computers) be directed to the relevant computer elsewhere on the Internet that is hosting a website (for example). While relevant in some circumstances, it is important to note that registering domain names does not - in itself - confer any trade mark or company name protection. Further factsheets are available from the IoD which deal with trade marks and business names. Conversely, registering trade marks and business names provides protection for domain names only in limited circumstances (discussed below).
Join a thriving community of skilled directors and leaders
Ask us about membership
