SideBySide Domains
PILLAR GUIDE

What Is ICANN?

The organization that coordinates the internet's domain name system. Here's what they do and why it matters to you.

ICANN in a Nutshell

ICANN = Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers

A nonprofit organization that coordinates the global internet's systems of unique identifiers. Founded in 1998, headquartered in Los Angeles.

What ICANN Does

1. Manages the Domain Name System (DNS)

Coordinates the root zone of DNS—the authoritative list of all top-level domains (.com, .org, .uk, etc.)

2. Accredits Domain Registrars

Companies must be ICANN-accredited to sell gTLD domains. This ensures minimum standards for registrar operations.

3. Creates New TLDs

Runs the application process for new generic TLDs. The 2012 expansion added 1,200+ new extensions.

4. Allocates IP Addresses

Coordinates global IP address allocation through regional internet registries (RIRs).

5. Dispute Resolution

Administers the UDRP (Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy) for trademark disputes.

ICANN Policies That Affect You

Policy What It Means
60-Day Lock Can't transfer a domain within 60 days of registration or previous transfer
Transfer Approval Registrars must allow transfers unless valid objection within 5 days
WHOIS Requirements Registrants must provide accurate contact information
UDRP Trademark holders can dispute domain ownership
Renewal Grace Period Minimum grace periods after domain expiration

The Domain Hierarchy

ICANN → Coordinates overall DNS, accredits registrars

Registries → Operate specific TLDs (Verisign for .com, PIR for .org)

Registrars → Sell domains to public (GoDaddy, Namecheap, Cloudflare)

Registrants → You, the domain owner

Filing Complaints

If your registrar violates ICANN policies, you can file a complaint:

  • • Registrar complaints: icann.org/compliance
  • • Domain disputes: UDRP process through approved providers
  • • Transfer issues: File transfer dispute with ICANN

Key Takeaways