Backbone of Internet's: Understanding ICANN and Its Crucial Role

Introduction to ICANN:

Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a key non-profit organization that performs a key role in the operation of the Internet. It was formed to take over some internet-related duties formerly managed by the US Government, and its main task is overseeing the Domain Name System (DNS),  generalizing on fundamental principles of the internet that support its worldwide stability, Security, and openness.

This company controls all the domains as it is responsible for creating and assigning domains. This is a US company it was under the US Government but on 1st Oct 2016 it was made clear the ICANN will no longer be under US Government oversight.

ICANN is the organization responsible for the creation of domain. ICANN stands for Internet 

Corporation of assigning Name and Number. Most people don't even know who is actual main authority that controls the internet. Most of the people think that the internet is controlled by the US Government. As the US is the founder of the internet some of them think that it is controlled by Google as it is how far but not fully. People think this because most of the searches are made through Google but we can consider it a platform that connects you to the internet. You might think the companies that provide you with the internet, are the ones who control it but in reality, they only have the power to block access to the websites. While some people think that the internet is controlled by some multinational companies like YouTube, Facebook, etc the reality is completely the opposite. There is also a company that controls these companies, as we know these companies have domains that are an essential part of these organizations and these domains are provided by certain organizations and these companies pay Millions of US Dollars to this company every year for the subscription/renewal domain.

History of ICANN:

• Founded: 1998
• Founder: Jon Postel
• Background: ICANN was formed to take over responsibilities managed by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). Jon Postel, a key figure in the internet's early development, was instrumental in establishing ICANN and defining its initial roles.

Importance of ICANN:

Managing Domain Names

ICANN ensures the uniqueness and universal reachability of domain names, which is essential for the orderly functioning of the internet.

• Unique Domain Names: Prevents conflicts and duplications across the internet.
• Top-Level Domains (TLDs): Manages a range of TLDs, including .com, .org, .net, and country-specific ones like .uk and .jp.
• Domain Name Registrars: Accredits entities that can register domain names on behalf of users.

Allocating IP Addresses

ICANN is responsible for the global coordination and allocation of IP addresses, ensuring that each device on the internet has a unique identifier.

• IP Address Management: Ensures orderly distribution of IP addresses.
• Regional Internet Registries (RIRs): Collaborates with RIRs to distribute IP addresses within specific regions.

Coordinating Protocol Assignments

ICANN oversees the assignment of protocol parameters, which are essential for the technical operation of the Internet.

• Protocol Parameters: Ensures the interoperability and functionality of the internet.
• Technical Standards: Works with groups like the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) to develop and maintain technical standards.

Managing Root Servers

ICANN oversees the operation of the root server system, a fundamental component of the DNS, to ensure the internet's stability and performance.

• Root Server System: Ensures security and reliability.
• Security and Stability: Maintains the global distribution of root servers.

Structure and Governance:

Multistakeholder Model

ICANN operates using a multistakeholder approach, incorporating diverse inputs from various sectors.

• Inclusive Participation: Engages businesses, governments, technical experts, civil society, and end-users in decision-making.
• Diverse Perspectives: Balances differing views for effective governance.

Policy Development Process

ICANN's policies are developed through a bottom-up process, ensuring that they reflect the global community's needs.

• Bottom-Up Approach: Policies are crafted through discussions, public forums, and working groups.
• Community Input: Extensive community participation ensures policies meet global needs.

Promoting Competition and Innovation:

ICANN fosters a competitive and innovative environment in the domain name registration market.

• Encouraging Competition: Prevents monopolies and promotes a dynamic market.
• Supporting Innovation: Policies support evolving internet needs.

New gTLD Program

ICANN's New gTLD Program expands the number of generic top-level domains, providing more choices for users.

• Expanding TLDs: Offers more specific and relevant domain names.
• Enhancing Branding: Improves branding and identity on the internet.

Ensuring Security and Stability:

ICANN plays a critical role in enhancing the security and stability of the DNS and the broader internet.

• DNS Security: Protects the DNS from threats such as hacking and phishing.
• DNSSEC: Promotes DNS Security Extensions for added security.

Internet Resilience

ICANN implements measures to ensure the internet's continuous and stable operation.

• Robust Infrastructure: Maintains a resilient internet infrastructure.
• Crisis Management: Has protocols for disaster recovery and crisis management.

Enhancing Global Cooperation:

ICANN actively involves international stakeholders to ensure the internet's governance reflects global diversity.

• Global Representation: Engages stakeholders worldwide.
• Collaborative Efforts: Works with international organizations and governments.

Capacity Building

ICANN supports training and education to enhance technical and policy-making capacities globally.

• Training and Education: Provides programs for stakeholders.
• Supporting Developing Regions: Focuses on Internet development in emerging regions.

Final Thoughts:

ICANN's role in managing domain names, allocating IP addresses, coordinating protocol assignments, and ensuring the security and stability of the internet is indispensable. Its inclusive governance structure and commitment to fostering competition and innovation have made it a cornerstone of the Internet's ongoing growth and reliability. By actively involving global stakeholders and promoting capacity building, ICANN ensures that the Internet remains a robust and accessible resource for everyone.