ICANN, short for the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, is a non-profit organization responsible for the coordination and management of Internet domain names, IP addresses, and other key aspects of the Internet's infrastructure. It was established in 1998 and operates under a multi-stakeholder model, meaning that it involves various stakeholder groups in its decision-making processes, including businesses, governments, and technical experts.
The primary role of ICANN is to oversee the allocation and assignment of unique domain names and IP addresses, ensuring they are globally unique and accessible. This involves the administration of the Domain Name System (DNS), which translates IP addresses into human-readable domain names. ICANN also manages the distribution of top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com, .org, and country-code TLDs like .uk and .de.
Additionally, ICANN is responsible for implementing and enforcing policies that govern the Internet's infrastructure and domain name system. Its mandate includes promoting competition and consumer choice, ensuring the security and stability of the Internet, and facilitating the interoperability of domain names and IP addresses across different networks.
ICANN plays a vital role in the global Internet ecosystem, acting as a centralized authority that coordinates the technical aspects of the Internet's naming system. It works collaboratively with stakeholders worldwide to develop policies and standards that enable the smooth functioning and accessibility of the Internet for users around the globe.
