Web based domain registration and payment system for the LK domain registry

Abstract

This research developed and evaluated the different aspects such as security, feasibility, etc. of an online domain registration system and a payment gateway for the Sri Lanka Domain Registry as a pilot project in establishing a secure e-commerce infrastructure in Sri Lanka. In doing so, it was able to formalize and stream line the procedures and guidelines of registering domains and eliminate the delays that were earlier involved in registering domains at the registry. The Internet today has become a place for people to do their day to day purchases as well as for the sale of products to a global market. The security of the information that is being exchanged in such transactions is vital. If the correct methodologies are not used, it could lead to losses to the consumers as well as heavy losses to vendors that could include damage to long built reputation. Although the Internet usage in Sri Lanka has risen dramatically since its introduction in 1995, local institutions have still not fully exploited its potential for reaching a global market, the main factor for this is the unavailability of a good secure online payment infrastructure in Sri Lanka. Currency regulations restrict people from using the facilities offered by such infrastructure in other countries. Many of the financial institutions in Sri Lanka are reluctant to offer such facilities because of the fear of fraudulent transactions raised by the myth that submitting sensitive information such as credit card numbers on the Internet is very insecure. As a results of the research a web based registration system was developed and implemented to handle the domain registration process and a set of guidelines were also developed to assist in the acceptance of domain names. The security of the domain registry's servers was also scrutinized to enable smooth operations of the registry. Recommendations on selecting a suitable online payment system were also made by evaluating the implementation of different mechanisms.