What is ICANN? The organization behind the internet

What is ICANN?

ICANN stands for Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. It is a non-profit organization that coordinates the global internet. ICANN manages the Domain Name System (DNS), allocates IP addresses and ensures the internet remains stable and secure.

The organization is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. ICANN was founded on September 18, 1998. Since then, the organization has played a crucial role in the functioning of the internet as we know it.

ICANN operates according to a multi-stakeholder model. This means that different parties have a say: governments, businesses, technical experts and internet users. No single party has complete control. This creates a fair and transparent system.

The role of ICANN on the internet

ICANN has various tasks that are essential for the internet:

• DNS root zone management: ICANN manages the highest level of the DNS system. This ensures that domain names are correctly translated into IP addresses.
• IP address space coordination: The organization distributes IP addresses through regional registries. This gives every device on the internet a unique address.
• TLD management: ICANN manages all top-level domains such as .com, .org and .net. New extensions such as .shop and .blog also fall under this.
• Registrar accreditation: ICANN approves registrars that are allowed to sell domain names. Only accredited registrars may register gTLDs.
• Protocol parameters: The organization maintains technical parameters necessary for internet communication.
• WHOIS database: ICANN sets requirements for the public database containing domain name information.

ICANN vs national registries

ICANN operates at a global level but works closely with national and regional registries. Understanding the difference is important.

ICANN manages generic top-level domains (gTLDs) such as .com, .org and .net. These extensions are not tied to a country. Additionally, ICANN accredits the registrars that sell these domain names.

National registries manage country-specific extensions (ccTLDs). In the Netherlands, that's SIDN for .nl domains. In Belgium, DNS.be manages the .be extension. For .eu domains, EURid is responsible.

The hierarchy works as follows: ICANN is at the top and manages the DNS root system. Below that are the TLD registries (both gTLDs and ccTLDs). These registries work with registrars. Registrars then sell domain names to end users.

History of ICANN

How ICANN accredits registrars

Registrars must go through a strict accreditation process before they can sell gTLD domain names. This process ensures quality and reliability.

First, a company submits a formal application to ICANN. The company must demonstrate that it meets financial, technical and operational requirements. ICANN checks whether the company is stable enough to offer registrar services.

The applicant must pay an accreditation fee. Currently, this amounts to approximately $3,500 per year. Additionally, a one-time application fee applies.

After approval, the registrar signs a Registrar Accreditation Agreement (RAA). This contract contains strict rules about privacy, security and consumer protection. Registrars must always comply with these.

ICANN regularly audits accredited registrars. Violations can result in sanctions. In serious cases, ICANN can revoke accreditation.

Why ICANN is important

1. Stability and security: ICANN ensures that the DNS system remains available 24/7. Without this coordination, the internet would not function.

2. Fair access: The multi-stakeholder model means no single party has complete control. This prevents abuse and monopolies.

3. Enabling innovation: The new gTLD program has enabled hundreds of new extensions. This offers more choice and creativity for website owners.

4. International cooperation: ICANN facilitates cooperation between countries, organizations and tech companies. This is essential for a global internet.

5. Consumer protection: By imposing strict requirements on registrars, ICANN protects the rights of domain name owners.

6. Technical standards: ICANN manages critical technical parameters that enable internet communication.

ICANN and your domain name

If you register a domain name with a .com, .org, .net or other gTLD extension, ICANN plays a role. The registrar where you buy the domain name is accredited by ICANN.

This accreditation means the registrar meets certain quality standards. As a customer, you have certain rights laid down in ICANN policy. Think of ownership rights, transferability and dispute resolution.

Do you want to register a .com, .org or .net domain name? Choose a reliable, ICANN-accredited registrar. Check our hosting provider comparison to make the best choice.

Popular ICANN-accredited registrars in the Netherlands include TransIP, Versio and ONE.com. These providers meet all ICANN requirements and offer reliable service.

For country-specific domains such as .nl, .be or .eu, you work with national registries. While these operate under the ICANN system, they have their own registration terms. Read more about SIDN for .nl domains or EURid for .eu domains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to implement this?

Implementation time varies per situation. Simple configurations can be done within an hour, more complex setups may take several hours to a day.

What are the costs?

Costs depend on your hosting provider and package. Many basic features are included for free, advanced features may incur additional costs.

Do I need technical knowledge?

You need little technical knowledge for the basics. Most hosting providers offer extensive documentation and support to help you.