I'm pleased to share that we have seated the members of a new Technical Study Group (TSG) that will conduct an in-depth analysis to understand the potential security and stability ramifications of integrating generic top-level domains (gTLDs) with alternative naming systems. Members of the new TSG include:
- Sebastien Ducos, Unstoppable Domains
- Nick Johnson, ENS Domains
- Brian Lonergan, Identity Digital
- Georgia Osborn, Security and Stability Advisory Committee
- Don Ruiz, Orange Domains LLC
- Swapneel Sheth, Verisign
- Suzanne Woolf, Public Interest Registry
These members were chosen for their varied and complementary technical expertise in Internet naming systems. I'd like to thank each member for agreeing to contribute their knowledge and time to this effort, as well as the ICANN staff who will facilitate this initiative.
The new TSG is intentionally small to facilitate an expeditious, yet rigorous and thorough evaluation. TSG members will participate in weekly meetings, as well as two multi-day workshops, in order to deliver a report that is going to be published for Public Comment by mid-August.
I also extend my sincere appreciation to the many community members who expressed interest in joining the TSG. I encourage you to follow the group's work and provide your input in the upcoming Public Comment proceeding. Updates, including meeting recordings, will be published at https://www.icann.org/resources/tsg-alternative-naming-systems-integrations.
Background: The Domain Name System and Alternative Naming Systems
The Internet is a network of networks that is not controlled by any one entity. The Internet and Domain Name System (DNS) have run without fail due to the coordinated efforts of many individuals and organizations. With more than 6 billion users, and considering the critical importance of the Internet, it is essential that this coordination continues as the landscape evolves.
ICANN's mission is to ensure the stable, secure, and unified operation of the Internet's unique identifier systems, including the global DNS, which is the Internet's main naming system. However, there are alternative naming systems that function differently than the global DNS. From a technical perspective, it may be possible for domain names used in the global DNS to be integrated into alternative naming systems. This integration could benefit users, but, without adequate protocols in place, could cause operational, security, and stability breakdowns in the DNS and its routing functions and usability. ICANN is convening this TSG to assess these risks.
