What is the role of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in managing domain names?

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What is the role of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in managing domain names?

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) plays a crucial role in managing domain names. ICANN is a non-profit organization that is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the unique identifiers used on the internet, including domain names, IP addresses, and protocol parameters.

One of the primary functions of ICANN is to manage the Domain Name System (DNS), which is the hierarchical naming system used to translate human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses. ICANN ensures the stability and security of the DNS by overseeing the allocation and management of domain names and their associated IP addresses.

ICANN is responsible for accrediting and overseeing domain name registrars, which are companies or organizations that provide domain name registration services to individuals and businesses. ICANN sets the rules and policies that registrars must follow, ensuring fair and consistent practices in the domain name industry.

Furthermore, ICANN is involved in the creation and introduction of new top-level domains (TLDs). TLDs are the suffixes at the end of domain names, such as .com, .org, or .net. ICANN manages the process of introducing new TLDs, including evaluating applications, conducting public consultations, and making decisions on their delegation.

ICANN also plays a role in resolving disputes related to domain names through its Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). The UDRP provides a mechanism for trademark holders to challenge the registration of domain names that infringe on their rights. ICANN ensures that the UDRP is implemented and followed by domain name registrars.

In summary, ICANN's role in managing domain names is to ensure the stability, security, and fairness of the DNS. It oversees the allocation and management of domain names, accredits and regulates domain name registrars, introduces new TLDs, and resolves disputes related to domain names.