What’s the difference between the various registration phases?

All domain extensions follow the same release sequence. The first registration period is always reserved for Trademark Owners. During the second phase – Priority Preregistration – anyone may increase their chances of getting a non-trademarked domain for a fee. Pre-registration comes next and allows you to get a jump on those who will try to register names during General Availability, which is open to the public. During this final phase, names are awarded on a first come, first served basis.