Last Updated: September 2026
During the gTLD application window, new gTLD applicants have an opportunity to submit a second-choice TLD name after they submit their primary application. This second choice is called a replacement string, which is in addition to an applicant’s first-choice TLD name, also referred to as the original or applied-for string.
Designating a replacement string potentially provides a path to avoid contention with another party that is applying for an identical or confusingly similar string by giving applicants the ability to switch from their applied-for string to their replacement string based on their own assessment. Applicants will only be allowed to make this switch during the 14-day replacement period following Reveal Day.
Learn more about replacement strings in the Replacement String Frequently Asked Questions.