14:58 15 July 2014
A new .scot domain is set to be launched with about 50 sites run by “launch pioneers” expected to go live this week. Among the first to sign up include the Scottish government, referendum campaigners Yes Scotland, Better Together, WWF Scotland, NHS Scotland and Scouts Scotland.
The .scot domain is among new top-level domains that are set to be available this year including .wales, .london, .berlin, and .NYC.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon welcomed the launch.
"It is entirely right that Scotland should have its own distinctive and recognisable internet domain - in particular, one that will resonate internationally, helping to promote Scottish business and culture throughout the world," she said.
"I am confident that the .scot domain name will prove to be a real asset to the people of Scotland and to the worldwide family of Scots.
"I am looking forward to the Scottish government being able to make use of this new domain and to having www.gov.scot up and running before the end of the year, as well as our pioneer domains including www.welcome.scot, which go live today."
Dot Scot Registry d