ch domain: New registry operator sought
The management of the .ch domain name database will be put out to public tender in mid-April, as the contract with the Switch Foundation expires in mid-2017.
In a few days, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) will put out to public tender the task of register operator for .ch domain names. The company that wins the bid will take over this function from summer 2017. It will manage the national database of .ch domain names and ensure the electronic link with the worldwide domain name system (DNS). According to the announcement, the future operator will also be responsible for the allocation and revocation of the right to use an internet address. These tasks are currently performed by Switch, whose contract with Bakom ends in mid-2017.
DNS is considered critical infrastructure
Companies applying for the role of registry operator must prove that they can provide the services specified in the Ordinance on Internet Domains (VID), Bakom stresses.
With around two million registered domain names, the DNS is considered Switzerland's critical infrastructure. The requirements for ensuring stability and security are therefore very high. The registry operator is obliged to take measures to combat cybercrime and to ensure the security and accessibility of the system. To ensure the integrity and protection of data under national law, only companies based in Switzerland that are not themselves (as well as their parent companies) in a dependent relationship with a foreign legal system that requires excessive data disclosure may participate in the public tender, according to the statement.
Interested companies can, according to Bakom submit their application by mid-July 2016.
