What is a Registry? The manager behind every domain

What is a Registry?

A registry (also called domain registry) is the organization that manages the central database of a specific top-level domain (TLD). Think of .nl, .com, .eu, or .be. Without registries, the Domain Name System (DNS) could not function.

How does a registry work?

A registry manages all domain names within one TLD. When you register a .nl domain, it is stored in the database of SIDN - the registry for .nl. The registry ensures that:

• Each domain is unique: No two websites can have the same domain
• DNS records are correct: Your browser can find the right server
• Registrations are tracked: Who owns which domain and until when
• Technical infrastructure runs: Nameservers available 24/7

Registry vs Registrar: the difference

A common confusion is the difference between a registry and a registrar. Simply explained:

You cannot buy a domain directly from a registry. You always need a registrar for that - usually your hosting provider.

Well-known registries

Each TLD has its own registry:

Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs)

• SIDN - Manages .nl (Netherlands)
• DNS Belgium - Manages .be (Belgium)
• DENIC - Manages .de (Germany)
• Nominet - Manages .uk (United Kingdom)

Generic TLDs (gTLDs)

• Verisign - Manages .com and .net
• Public Interest Registry - Manages .org
• EURid - Manages .eu

New gTLDs

Since 2012, hundreds of new TLDs have been added such as .shop, .amsterdam, and .tech. Each with their own registry.

The role of ICANN

ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is the umbrella organization that oversees all registries. ICANN determines:

• Which organizations may manage a TLD
• Rules that registries must comply with
• Technical standards for the DNS system
• Dispute resolution for domain conflicts

Technical tasks of a registry

A registry does more than just register names:

1. Zone file management: The file with all DNS records of the TLD
2. Nameserver infrastructure: Servers that answer DNS queries
3. WHOIS database: Information about domain owners
4. DNSSEC: Security layer against DNS spoofing
5. EPP protocol: Standard for communication with registrars

Why registries are important

Without reliable registries, the internet would not work:

• Availability: Registry nameservers typically have 99.99% uptime
• Security: Protection against cyber attacks and abuse
• Stability: Consistent and reliable domain resolution
• Innovation: New features like DNSSEC and IPv6 support

Registry costs and domain prices

The price you pay for a domain consists of:

1. Registry fee: What the registry charges (e.g., €5 for .nl)
2. Registrar margin: What your hosting provider adds on top
3. Extra services: WHOIS privacy, DNSSEC setup, etc.

That's why prices can differ per hosting provider, while the registry fee is the same for everyone.

Registering a domain

Want to register a domain? Choose a reliable registrar that:

• Offers good customer service
• Has fair renewal prices
• Supports DNSSEC
• Has easy domain management

On our comparison page you will find the best hosting providers that also act as registrars.