gTLD RDAP Profile
The ICANN organization worked with a discussion group of generic top-level domain (gTLD) registries and registrars to create a gTLD RDAP profile. The profile, which follows the requirements of the Temporary Specification for gTLD Registration Data, aims to provide technical instructions to gTLD registries and registrars on how to implement an RDAP service in a consistent way.
The February-2019 version of the gTLD-RDAP profile (the current version) consists of two documents:
- RDAP Technical Implementation Guide that aims to provide technical instructions to gTLD registries and registrars on how to implement the RDAP service; and
- RDAP Response Profile that intends to map current policy requirements to the RDAP implementation with flexibility to incorporate future policy changes with minimal reengineering.
As of August 2023, most gTLD registries and registrars are required to implement the February-2019 version of the gTLD RDAP profile per their respective agreements. For gTLD registries not required by their agreement to implement the gTLD RDAP profile, ICANN org recommends implementing the February-2019 version of the gTLD RDAP profile in their RDAP service.
Upcoming Updates
A new version of the profile was developed as part of the implementation of the Registration Data Policy, this future version is described below.
The February-2024 version of the gTLD RDAP Profile consists of two documents:
- RDAP Technical Implementation Guide (Redline) that aims to provide technical instructions to gTLD registries and registrars on how to implement the RDAP service; and
- RDAP Response Profile (Redline) that intends to map current policy requirements to the RDAP implementation with flexibility to incorporate future policy changes with minimal reengineering.
Before 21 August 2024, gTLD registries and registrars must continue to implement the February-2019 version of the gTLD RDAP profile.
After 21 August 2024, and through 20 August 2025, ICANN org recommends gTLD registries and registrars implement the February-2024 version of the gTLD RDAP profile in their RDAP service, but gTLD registries and registrars may continue to implement the February-2019 version.
After 21 August 2025, gTLD registries and registrars, per the Registration Data Policy are required to implement the February-2024 version of the gTLD RDAP profile, and the February-2019 version is considered obsolete.
Previous Work
Previously, in July 2016, ICANN org had published a gTLD RDAP profile that included service level and reporting requirements. Subsequently, the gTLD Registries Stakeholder Group requested that ICANN org not to use that profile and instead work together on a modified plan to implement RDAP, which resulted, among other things, in the February-2019 version. The July-2016 version is obsolete.