ICANN Frequently Asked Questions

Unsure about the mysterious ICANN? You've come to the right place! This ICANN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) guide unravels everything you need to know about this organization that plays a critical role in the internet's functionality. We'll explore what ICANN is and how it affects you, as well as answer common questions like domain verification and WHOIS information updates.

In this article, we will discuss:

• ICANN Frequently Asked Question
• Review

ICANN Frequently Asked Question

Select a topic below to learn more.

• What Is ICANN?
• Why is ICANN so important?
• How does ICANN affect me?
• What is ICANN Verification?
• How do I complete the domain verification process?
• How do I update my domain contacts or WHOIS information?

What Is ICANN?

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a not-for-profit, public-benefit organization formed in 1998, is responsible for regulating domain registrations. ICANN enforces the policies and regulations; Registrars and Registrants must follow.

The ICANN staff operates the Internet's Domain Name System (DNS),

• Allocates and assigns the Internet's unique identifiers, such as IP addresses
• Accredits generic top-level domain (gTLD) name registrars
• Helps facilitate the voices of volunteers worldwide who are dedicated to keeping the Internet secure, stable, and interoperable

ICANN only regulates gTLDs (.com, .net, .etc.), including new TLDs (.club, .pizza, .aero, etc.). They do not regulate country codes (ccTLDs) (.ca, .de, .jp, etc.) as those are managed by their respective countries’ government agencies. ICANN promotes competition in the domain name space and helps develop Internet policy.

Why Is ICANN so Important?

ICANN is responsible for coordinating the management of the technical elements of the DNS to ensure that each DNS resolves universally to enable Internet users to find all valid addresses.

To reach another person on the Internet, you must type an address into your computer. That address must be unique to allow computers to know where to find each other. ICANN coordinates these unique identifiers across the world. Without that coordination, we would not have one global Internet.

ICANN does not control the content on the Internet. It cannot stop spam, and it does not deal with access to the Internet. However, through its role in the coordination of the Internet's naming system, ICANN has had an important impact on the expansion and evolution of the Internet.

How Does ICANN Affect Me?

Through its Registrar Accreditation Agreement (RAA), ICANN requires accredited registrars (such as ours) to follow several policies and global industry standards to sell and service gTLDs. These mandated policies cover all aspects of domain management, including ownership, domain renewals, and transfers, to name a few. If you wish to purchase a domain name, you are required to acknowledge these policies and do so through a registrar’s domain agreement.

What Is ICANN Verification?

Through the RAA, ICANN requires registrars to ensure domain owners submit accurate contact information associated with newly purchased or transferred domain names and validate. This is a step to verify accurate ownership and prevent fraud. If a domain name's contact information is not validated within 15 days of registration or transfer, the registrar suspends the domain name. This means that any associated services (such as email or websites) will no longer function.

Fortunately, a suspended domain will be restored to full functionality once the contact information is verified.

Also, registrars must ensure all domains have valid information associated with them every year. Registrars will send a confirmation email to the registrant (owner) with the email address associated with the domain names. These emails will give you the ability to confirm that all the info associated with the domain name is valid.

How Do I Complete the Domain Verification Process?

Whether your domain status shows Pending Verification or Suspended, you will need to complete the verification process. Follow the steps below based on whether you received an email from us asking you to confirm your email address.

If you have received an email from us asking you to confirm your email address.

If you receive an email asking you to confirm the RAA verification, click on the CONFIRM EMAIL ADDRESS button to prevent your emails from being deactivated and confirm the email address we have for you is accurate.

1. A new page will open in your browser, stating that your email is confirmed and no further action is needed.
2. Log into your account via https://www.networksolutions.com/my-account/login.
3. On the left side of the page, click Domain Names.
4. Select the domain that you would like to review.
5. In the Domain Overview section, check the status of your domain. It will change from Pending Verification or Suspended to Active once the verification has been completed.
   

If you have not received the email from us asking you to confirm your email address.

1. Log into your account via https://www.networksolutions.com/my-account/login.
2. On the left side of the page, click Domain Names.
3. Select the domain that you would like to review.
4. In the Domain Overview section, click Resend email if you did not receive the email. Your status will either be Pending Verification or Suspended.
   
   
    
5. Go to your mailbox and check for an email from us. You may need to check your junk or spam folder.
6. Follow the instructions in the email and click the link to confirm your email address.
7. A new page will open in your browser, stating that your email is confirmed and no further action is needed.
8. Log into your account via https://www.networksolutions.com/my-account/login.
9. On the left side of the page, click Domain Names.
10. Select the domain that you would like to review.
11. In the Domain Overview section, check the status of your domain.
12. The status will change from Pending Verification or Suspended to Active once the verification has been completed.

How Do I Update My Domain Contacts or WHOIS Information?

Whether you are updating a gTLD or not, the process of updating the domain contact information or WHOIS information is the same. To view the steps in updating the WHOIS information, please refer to How to Manage My Domain Contacts or WHOIS Information.

Review

Ever wondered who keeps the internet running smoothly? Look no further than ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers. This non-profit organization plays a critical role in ensuring a stable and secure internet experience for everyone.

If you're a domain owner, understanding ICANN's role is important. They establish policies followed by registrars (the companies you purchase domains from) to guarantee a smooth domain registration, renewal, and transfer process. ICANN also requires registrars to verify your contact information to prevent fraud and ensure your domain stays active.

For more information on ICANN and its impact on you, explore the resources above! This ICANN FAQ has covered the basics of ICANN, its role, and how it affects domain owners like yourself.