In a move to meet a fresh state requirement, Cayuga County is giving its online presence a makeover, swapping out the familiar “.us” for the more official and secure “.gov” domain. It’s not just a cosmetic change; it’s a step towards bolstering cybersecurity and aligning with state regulations.
Why the Change?
The Cayuga County Legislature is responding to a new state mandate, and they’ve set their sights on the sleek and security-conscious “.gov” domain. The goal is to transition from the trusty, decade-old CayugaCounty.us to the more official and secure CayugaCountyny.gov.
How’s It Going Down?
This isn’t an overnight overhaul. The shift to “.gov” is happening in phases, with the local Board of Elections leading the charge. Tom Bunn, the county’s chief information officer, explained the game plan. They’re setting up the new domain alongside the old one, using email aliasing and website redirects. It’s like renovating a house while still living in it—keeping the lights on until everything is ready for the grand reveal.
Why the Board of Elections First?
Blame it on cybersecurity regulations from the state Board of Elections. The rulebook says local boards should use “.gov” for emails and web traffic “to the extent practicable.” So, the Board of Elections is taking the plunge first, leading the charge in online security for the county.
But Wait, There’s History!
The county’s website has been rocking the CayugaCounty.us vibe for more than a decade. Before that, it was co.Cayuga.ny.us. It’s like changing the address of a house that’s been a landmark for years.
What’s the Big Deal About “.gov”?
Using “.gov” isn’t just a trendy move; it’s a cybersecurity power move. The federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is all for it. Their fact sheet shouts from the virtual rooftops that “.gov” helps the public identify the website as a “trusted government source.” Plus, it’s a security superhero, fending off potential cyber threats.
Approval in the Pipeline
The Government Operations Committee of the county Legislature has given the nod to the resolution, with Legislator David Gould leading the charge. But, before the confetti can fall, it needs to pass the Ways and Means Committee. The final green light rests with the full Legislature.
What’s Next?
The phased transition isn’t just a technical jamboree; it’s a strategic move to ensure a smooth shift. The dual existence of “.gov” and “.us” will maintain harmony until the final switch. It’s like a choreographed dance, with email aliasing and redirects playing key roles until the new domain takes center stage.
What Does It Mean for You?
If you’re a Cayuga County resident or just a curious internet surfer, this change signals a commitment to online security and a clear signal that the county’s website is a trusted space. It’s not just a new coat of paint; it’s a digital fortification.
In the world of domain names, this move by Cayuga County isn’t just a bureaucratic shuffle. It’s a practical step towards a more secure and reliable online presence. So, buckle up as Cayuga County gears up for a digital transformation that goes beyond the surface. The “.gov” era is dawning, and Cayuga County is leading the way.
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