If you want harbor.web, check who holds harbor.com. They may be able to register the .web before it opens to the public.
Verisign's planned matching-owner period gives most eligible .com registrants an opportunity to register the identical .web before general availability. If they register it, you would need to buy it from them.
Start with the .com
The matching holder might want the .web for their own business, be willing to sell it, or decide to leave it alone.
Owning the .com does not automatically give them the .web. They still have to qualify and register it. The registry's final rules will cover exclusions and eligibility.
You can wait to see whether they register it, or approach them about a purchase.
Waiting makes sense when you have alternatives
If several names would suit your project, you can compare what is available through registrars once public registration opens. Check renewal prices before choosing.
If you need one exact name, the matching holder may register it before the public opening. Even if it remains available, other buyers can seek it too. Get a quote for the name: it may carry a premium registration price.
Talking to the matching owner
You can ask the matching holder whether they would sell and what price they have in mind. Any purchase would depend on their eligibility, successful registration and the agreed delivery arrangements.
DotWeb's Owner listings show matching .com holders who have chosen to list. You can make an inquiry about a listing and, after an introduction, discuss it privately on the site. Buyer listings let you make demand for a name visible to owners.
The discussion is nonbinding. Before a purchase, both sides agree the price and how the registered domain will be delivered.
You can prepare your offer now
If you already know the name and the amount you would offer, save a private offer on DotWeb for free. You can edit or withdraw it in your account.
When our acquisition service opens, you can decide whether to ask us to pursue it. You can change the offer at checkout before paying the US$19.95 request fee. The domain purchase price, buyer-paid 10% closing commission and third-party charges are separate.
Source
Verisign's October 22, 2026 earnings call sets out the proposed launch sequence. See the launch calendar for the timetable.