Which intellectual property protection type offers the MOST extensive and enduring protection for a brand's logo?
Trademark registration offers the MOST extensive and enduring protection for a brand's logo. A trademark is a symbol, design, or phrase legally registered to represent a company or product. Registering a logo as a trademark grants the brand exclusive rights to use that logo in connection with its goods or services, preventing competitors from using similar logos that could cause consumer confusion. Unlike copyright, which protects the artistic expression of a logo but not necessarily its use as a brand identifier, trademark protection focuses on the logo's role as a source identifier. Unlike design patents, which protect the ornamental design of an item for a limited time (e.g., 15 years in the US), trademark protection can last indefinitely as long as the trademark is actively used and renewed periodically. This means that a brand can maintain exclusive rights to its logo for as long as it continues to use it in commerce and pays the required renewal fees. For example, the Nike swoosh logo is protected by trademark registration, allowing Nike to prevent other companies from using a similar swoosh design on athletic apparel or footwear. Trademark registration provides strong legal protection against infringement and allows the brand to take action against those who use a confusingly similar logo, ensuring long-term brand recognition and value.