Mountain View-based VeriSign (Nasdaq: VRSN) is the largest security software developer for online transactions, but that isn't all the company dabbles in. In its first big move into other markets, and with a firm hold in nearly 75% of the online security sector, the company proceeded to plunk down over $15 billion in a stock purchase of domain name registrar Network Solutions last June. Want to buy a domain name? Talk to VeriSign.

Now, following this week's acquisition of domain name reseller GreatDomains, you'll be talking to VeriSign when you sell a domain too.

"The secondary market for domain names has matured into a strong segment of the Web identity business and GreatDomains has demonstrated innovation and clear market leadership in this area," says Jim Rutt, CEO of Network Solutions. "The addition of GreatDomains' domain name exchange capabilities to our current range of offerings will provide customers in every industry with even greater choice in securing a domain name to build their online presence."

The GreatDomains acquisition has likely elevated VeriSign as the most comprehensive source for domain name registration services in the world. GreatDomains' third party domain name inventory will be integrated into the purchase process for domain names found through Network Solutions, thereby allowing prospective customers to search for domain names in the primary and secondary markets at the same time. In addition, escrow and other secure exchange services will be offered.

"Like a stock exchange, VeriSign and GreatDomains will now provide a trusted marketplace for traders," says Doug Wolford, group general manager of Network Solutions' Web Presence Services group. "This is a natural extension of our business and expands our offerings to meet the growing needs of our customers who will find it even easier to find and secure the exact domain name they want."

GreatDomains is the third domain play VeriSign has acquired this year. Shortly after its Network Solutions acquisition the company picked up ezDomainAuction.com, a domain auction service that lets users find, buy and list domain name registrations in the secondary market.

"We are excited to join the VeriSign family," says Jeff Tinsley, CEO of GreatDomain, who joins VeriSign as director of Secondary Market Name Services. "GreatDomains is joining with Network Solutions to create the most comprehensive set of related services to provide businesses with the most efficient marketplace for domain name registrations, both new and 'used.'"

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