Domain names are hostnames that identify Internet Protocol (IP) resources such as web sites. The process for registering domain names is altogether separate from trademark registration. The system for domain names registration generally operates on a first-come first-serve basis and anybody can obtain any domain name without proof of commercial use.
Trademark disputes arise when more than one company tries to use the same domain name, or one company adopts another company’s trademark for its domain name, often referred to as cyber-squatting. However there is a simple procedure to stop cyber-squatting through the WIPO’s Domain Name Dispute Resolution Service. As a general rule the courts appear willing to force a domain name owner to pick another name if it conflicts with an existing trademark.