Personal domain names for individuals became available in .IE on October 31. Their availability came after a seven week notice period to allow time for sole traders, professionals, politicians, trademark holders who have not already registered their .IE domain name to do so under existing non-personal domain categories.

The .IE registry says it is easing the rules because of the increased popularity of social networking sites, the rise of personal blogging and the growing number of Irish people using the internet.

For those interested in registering a personal .IE domain name, you need to have a connection to Ireland, your chosen domain must accurately reflect your name and be a combination of first name, first initial and/or middle initial and your surname, choose an IE reseller and submit your application to IEDR.

For more information, see the IEDR website at www.iedr.ie/PDN.php