What Is ICANN?
ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is the nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces and numerical spaces of the internet — essentially, it's the governing body that keeps the domain name system running smoothly.
ICANN's responsibilities include: coordinating the DNS root zone, managing the allocation of IP addresses, accrediting domain registrars, introducing new TLDs, and overseeing dispute resolution policies like the UDRP. It operates through a multi-stakeholder model involving governments, businesses, technical experts, and civil society.
ICANN doesn't register domains itself — it accredits registrars who do. When you hear about new TLD launches, policy changes affecting domain transfers, or updates to WHOIS requirements, ICANN is typically behind those decisions.
Why This Matters for Startups
You'll rarely interact with ICANN directly, but their policies affect every domain you register. Understanding that ICANN accredits registrars helps you choose reputable ones. Their UDRP policy protects your trademark rights. Their rules around domain transfers (60-day lock after registration, EPP codes) affect how you manage your domains. Think of ICANN as the regulatory body of the domain world — you don't deal with them daily, but their rules shape the landscape.
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