The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a global, non-profit organization that helps keep the Internet running smoothly. It oversees key technical functions such as managing the domain name system (DNS), coordinating IP address allocation, assigning protocol parameters, and maintaining the root server system.

Before ICANN was formed, many of these responsibilities were handled under contracts with the U.S. government by IANA (the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) and other groups. Today, ICANN works with stakeholders around the world to ensure the internet remains stable, secure, and interoperable.

To learn more, visit icann.org.