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EIF Strategy 2025–2027: Shaping the Future of .ee Domain

Vision
EIF envisions creating the world’s best domain registry. We aim to be a reliable and valued partner for our accredited registrars while driving innovation in the domain industry from the registry perspective. Our mission also includes offering users modern and efficient services.

Challenges
Like many other top-level domain (TLD) registries, EIF faces challenges such as slowing domain growth, retaining market share, and declining registration renewal rates. Additionally, the proliferation of new generic domains, the ever-evolving cyberspace, and global megatrends influence our industry landscape.

Strategic Objectives
Ensuring DNS Stability and Security. The .ee registry's development focuses on ensuring the availability, stability, and security of DNS services. To bolster cybersecurity, EIF is completing the ISO certification process and preparing for potential cyber threats. We have aligned .ee domain rules with the NIS2 cybersecurity directive and support registrars in meeting these requirements.

To enhance resilience, we are migrating domain registry services to the cloud and evaluating backup solutions for critical data in Estonia’s national data embassy. This ensures the continuity of our services during potential crises.

Improving Data Quality. EIF is committed to improving the data quality of .ee registrants. By ensuring data integrity and promoting efficient cross-utilization, we aim to reduce redundant data collection. These efforts make operations faster and more convenient while improving the zone’s security and cleanliness.

Developing New Services. Several service innovations are underway. For example, we are analyzing options for expanding .ee registration periods, including offering one-month registrations. We are also exploring premium domain services to meet community demand.

Additionally, EIF is preparing to introduce an official and controlled secondary market auction environment for .ee domains. This will enable secure buying and selling of domains. We are also enhancing the user base for the electronic personal identification service eeID, using automation and artificial intelligence to streamline daily operations.

Strengthening Registrar Partnerships. EIF strives to be the best possible partner for registrars by fostering technological innovation and efficiency. We actively involve registrars in developments related to the .ee registry and are modernizing the Elite Partners program. By supporting registrars in their operations, we aim to help shape the legal framework for domain management in Estonia.

Protecting Domain Owners’ Rights. To enhance the protection of domain owners’ rights, we are improving the accessibility of the Domain Disputes Commission and revising related procedures. Furthermore, we plan to introduce a platform allowing users to check for potential rights violations when registering domains, raising awareness of legal obligations and rights.

Building Community Engagement. EIF is committed to strengthening its cooperation with the Internet community by increasing community involvement in its activities and enhancing representation in cross-border initiatives. We organize sectoral events and discussions in Estonia, such as Internet Day and Arvamusfestival debates, and participate internationally through forums like Baltic Domain Days and CENTR working group meetings. Sharing our expertise globally helps shape the domain industry’s future.