Definition:
CIRA is the non-profit organization which oversees the registration of Canadian domain names (those ending in .ca).
As the organization responsible for Internet domain registration in Canada, CIRA sets domain name policy, assigns Canadian domain names, manages and operates the Canadian domain name database, provides dispute resolution services and handles complaints about registrars.
Created in 1998, CIRA began handling Internet domain registration in the fall of 2000. Top level Canadian domain names must be registered through a CIRA-certified registrar. CIRA provides a list of these certified Canadian domain name registrars on their site.
See the CIRA FAQ for more information on registering Canadian domain names.
Also Known As: Canadian Internet Registration Authority.
Examples: Besides top level Canadian domain names (such as www.susanward.ca), there are also lower level Canadian domain names (such as www.susanward.bc.ca) - all overseen by CIRA.
