Domain Name System
The Internet Domain Name System (DNS) is a critical component of the Internet infrastructure. The DNS associates user-friendly domain names (e.g., www.ntia.doc.gov) with the numeric network addresses (e.g., 170.110.225.155) required to deliver information on the Internet, making the Internet easier for the public to navigate.
NTIA is the Executive Branch expert on issues relating to the DNS and supports a multi-stakeholder approach to the coordination of the DNS to ensure the long-term viability of the Internet as a force for innovation and economic growth.
Related content
What They're Saying: Why It's Important to Complete the IANA Stewardship Transition
In March 2014, NTIA initiated the final step in the privatization of the Internet’s domain name system (DNS) by asking ICANN to convene its global stakeholders to develop a plan to transition the stewardship role NTIA plays related to the DNS technical functions, known as the IANA functions. In June, NTIA announced that, after a thorough review, the transition proposal developed by Internet stakeholders meets the criteria we outlined aimed at maintaining the stability, security, and openness of the Internet that users across the globe depend on today.
In recent days, many Internet stakeholders have talked about the importance of completing the transition and the potential negative impacts of a delay. Here’s what they are saying:
Fact Sheet: The IANA Stewardship Transition Explained
- The IANA transition is the culmination of a nearly 20-year effort to privatize the Internet domain name system (DNS). This has been a goal of Democratic and Republican administrations since 1997. The U.S.
Statement of Assistant Secretary Strickling on GAO Report
Statement of Lawrence E. Strickling, Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator, on the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, “Department of Commerce - Property Implications of Proposed Transition of U.S.