DNS Policy Engagement How to Participate in ICANN and IETF

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the foundation of the internet’s navigation, and its governance involves a complex interplay of technical standards, operational practices, and policy decisions. Two of the most influential bodies in DNS governance are the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). Both organizations provide critical forums for stakeholders to engage in shaping the future of DNS, addressing issues ranging from security and stability to innovation and inclusivity. For those interested in participating, understanding the processes, structures, and opportunities within ICANN and the IETF is essential to making meaningful contributions.

ICANN is a global multistakeholder organization responsible for coordinating the DNS and maintaining the stability and security of the internet’s unique identifier system. Its role includes overseeing domain name registries, developing policies for generic top-level domains (gTLDs), and managing the root zone of the DNS. Participation in ICANN is open to a broad range of stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, civil society, technical experts, and individual users. The multistakeholder model ensures that diverse perspectives are represented, fostering policies that balance the interests of all parties.

Engaging with ICANN begins with identifying the groups and constituencies most relevant to one’s interests. ICANN’s structure is composed of several Supporting Organizations (SOs) and Advisory Committees (ACs), each focusing on specific areas of internet governance. For instance, the Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) develops policies for gTLDs, while the Country Code Names Supporting Organization (ccNSO) addresses issues related to country-code top-level domains (ccTLDs). Advisory Committees such as the Security and Stability Advisory Committee (SSAC) and the At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC) provide expert advice on security and end-user perspectives, respectively.

Participation in ICANN often involves joining working groups or policy development processes (PDPs) within these organizations. Working groups are the engine of ICANN’s policy-making, where stakeholders collaborate to draft recommendations and address specific issues. These groups operate through open and transparent processes, with meetings, documents, and discussions accessible to the public. Anyone can join these efforts, regardless of prior experience, making ICANN an inclusive platform for engagement.

The IETF, on the other hand, focuses on the development of internet standards, including those that underpin the DNS. Unlike ICANN, which is policy-oriented, the IETF is primarily technical, emphasizing the design, implementation, and deployment of protocols. The IETF operates through working groups organized into thematic areas, such as routing, security, and applications. DNS-related work often takes place within the DNS Operations (DNSOP) and DNS Extensions (DNSEXT) working groups, which address operational best practices and the development of new DNS features, respectively.

Participation in the IETF begins with familiarizing oneself with its open processes and collaborative culture. The IETF’s guiding philosophy is captured in the principle of “rough consensus and running code,” emphasizing practical solutions and broad agreement over formal voting. Stakeholders contribute by reviewing and commenting on Internet-Drafts (I-Ds), which are documents proposing new standards or updates to existing protocols. These drafts are discussed on mailing lists and during IETF meetings, providing multiple opportunities for engagement.

To join IETF discussions, stakeholders can subscribe to relevant mailing lists, where most of the technical debates and exchanges occur. These lists are open to the public, and contributions are welcomed from anyone with an interest in the topic. Attending IETF meetings, held three times a year, provides further opportunities to engage with experts, present ideas, and participate in consensus-building. Meetings are open to all, with both in-person and virtual attendance options, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.

For effective engagement in both ICANN and the IETF, preparation and knowledge are crucial. Participants should familiarize themselves with the organizations’ structures, procedures, and ongoing initiatives. This includes reviewing foundational documents such as ICANN’s Bylaws or the IETF’s RFC (Request for Comments) series, which outline key principles and standards. Understanding the historical context and technical underpinnings of DNS-related issues can also enhance one’s ability to contribute meaningfully.

Active participation in ICANN and the IETF requires a commitment to collaboration and consensus-building. Both organizations operate on the principle that policies and standards should reflect the collective expertise and input of the community. This means engaging constructively, respecting diverse perspectives, and focusing on solutions that advance the broader goals of DNS stability, security, and innovation.

Engaging with ICANN and the IETF also offers the opportunity to influence the trajectory of the DNS and internet governance more broadly. Whether contributing to the development of new DNS protocols, shaping policies for gTLD management, or addressing emerging challenges like DNS privacy and security, stakeholders can play a direct role in ensuring the DNS continues to support a resilient, open, and inclusive internet.

In conclusion, participating in ICANN and the IETF is a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to engage with the governance and technical development of the DNS. By understanding the structures, processes, and principles of these organizations, stakeholders can make meaningful contributions that reflect their expertise and perspectives. Through collaboration and active engagement, ICANN and the IETF remain essential platforms for shaping the future of the internet and its foundational DNS infrastructure.

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the foundation of the internet’s navigation, and its governance involves a complex interplay of technical standards, operational practices, and policy decisions. Two of the most influential bodies in DNS governance are the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). Both organizations…