Understanding ICANN: Its Origins and Role in Internet Governance

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a nonprofit organization established on September 18, 1998. Its motto is "One World, One Internet." The organization is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, specifically in the Playa Vista area. Currently headed by President and CEO Goran Marby, ICANN is responsible for coordinating the management of Internet domain name systems, ensuring stability and security across the worldwide network. Its main mission is to oversee the assignment of domain names and IP addresses to facilitate a reliable and secure internet experience.

History

Before ICANN’s formation, the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) managed Internet identifiers under the guidance of researcher Jon Postel. As the internet expanded globally, the U.S. Department of Commerce recognized the need for a dedicated organization to handle this responsibility, leading to the creation of ICANN. The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) proposed a plan to privatize internet management, fostering competition and international participation.

ICANN was founded to execute these policies, with Esther Dyson serving as its first chairwoman. The organization’s core function is policy development, delegated to three supporting groups: the Address Supporting Organization, the Domain Name Supporting Organization, and the Protocol Supporting Organization. These bodies create policies within their areas of expertise, operating independently of ICANN financially.

In 2006, ICANN signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce, which allowed limited oversight. By 2016, ICANN obtained full independence from U.S. government control, marking a significant step in global internet governance. Since then, ICANN continues to coordinate key internet functions, fostering a stable and secure online environment worldwide.