IANA ensures that every domain name resolves correctly, every IP address routes to the right place, and every protocol speaks a common language — keeping the global Internet stable for 8 billion users.
Without a trusted, neutral authority managing the Internet's core identifiers, the consequences are immediate and global.
Without a single root, duplicate TLDs would fragment the web — users on different networks would reach different sites at the same address.
Uncoordinated IP allocation would create overlapping address blocks — breaking routing tables and siloing networks from each other globally.
Without canonical protocol registries, software implementations would conflict — breaking email, web, and every other internet service at the interoperability layer.
Every connected device on Earth depends on at least one of these IANA-managed functions — every second of every day.
IANA manages the DNS Root Zone — the authoritative top of the naming hierarchy. Without this, entering a URL would fail to resolve. We coordinate all ccTLDs, gTLDs, .int and .arpa zones, so your domain queries never go unanswered.
Every device that connects to the Internet needs a unique IP address. IANA coordinates the global pools of IPv4, IPv6, and Autonomous System numbers — allocating to 5 Regional Internet Registries so address space never collides.
From port numbers to media types, IANA maintains the central registries that allow internet protocols to interoperate. Without canonical assignments, every HTTP request, email, and API call would risk misinterpretation.
IANA manages the Root Zone Key Signing Key — the cryptographic anchor for DNSSEC. Through transparent, multi-party Key Signing Ceremonies, we ensure attackers cannot forge DNS responses and redirect users to malicious sites.
Managing global internet identifiers means serving millions of stakeholders with conflicting interests — all demanding stability, fairness, and zero downtime. We've navigated that complexity since the early 1970s.
IANA functions are performed by Public Technical Identifiers (PTI), a purpose-built subsidiary of ICANN. This structure ensures operational independence, accountability, and a clear policy framework — so the coordination function remains trusted, neutral, and technically excellent regardless of geopolitics.
Sets policy for IANA functions, provides accountability structure, and convenes the multistakeholder community.
The ICANN subsidiary that legally performs IANA functions. Operationally independent with direct service contracts.
The technical operations: DNS Root Zone, IP coordination, protocol registries, and DNSSEC key management.
Whether you're applying for a protocol assignment, updating delegation details, or accessing the Root Zone Database — the process is transparent and documented.
Determine which IANA function applies to your situation — domain name, IP/AS assignment, protocol registry, or DNSSEC. Each has a dedicated portal and documented requirements.
Use the appropriate IANA online form or contact us directly. Requests are reviewed by our technical staff for completeness, eligibility, and policy compliance — with clear acknowledgement timelines.
IANA processes your request, communicates any questions, and issues a formal decision. Approved changes are reflected in the Root Zone Database or relevant registry, often within days.
All IANA databases and registries are freely accessible. No login required to look up data that underpins the entire Internet.
Browse all delegated TLDs and their nameserver configuration. Updated continuously — the authoritative source for TLD data.
The canonical source for protocol parameter assignments — port numbers, media types, URI schemes, and thousands more.
View global IP address and AS number allocations to Regional Internet Registries. Full allocation history and current status.
Reserved for international treaty organizations. Learn eligibility requirements and how to apply for an .INT domain registration.
Download the DNSSEC root trust anchor and find documentation on key rollover procedures and signing ceremony records.
Annual performance reports, customer satisfaction surveys, and process documentation for full operational transparency.
"IANA's protocol assignment process is transparent and efficient. Our RFC review was acknowledged within 48 hours and the registry update was completed well ahead of our deployment schedule."
"We updated our ccTLD delegation details through IANA's online portal. The process was clearly documented, the request tracker gave real-time status, and changes were live in the root zone within the week."
"As a network operator in Southeast Asia, I had concerns about geographic bias. IANA's public reports and independent accountability mechanisms gave me confidence that address space is allocated fairly, regardless of region."
Real answers to real questions from registries, protocol developers, network operators, and policy participants.
Whether you're applying for a protocol assignment, updating delegation details, or trying to understand which IANA function applies to your work — our team responds to every inquiry.
We respond to all inquiries within 2 business days.