Dear registrars,

We are in the process of reviewing our policy regarding the way our test system works. Currently, the test-mode EPP and Toolkit systems use a database that is synchronised with the live database every 24 hours. However, this means that registrars cannot rely on objects created in the test system to exist for more than 24 hours, which can sometimes cause problems for their own testing and development platforms.

We are considering changing our test system so that while it continues to use its own database, this database is persistent and is not overwritten from the live database. This is certainly how other registry operators have configured their own OT&E systems and may be an easier system for registrars to understand and use.

We are keen to get feedback from our registrars on this matter - please tell us which model you would prefer, by posting a comment on this article, or by e-mailing us. After a few weeks we'll take a look at what you've told us and make a decision.

Many thanks, and a very happy Christmas,

Gavin Brown, CTO, CentralNic