Registry

A Registry (or Registry Operator) is the organization responsible for maintaining the master database of all domain names registered under a specific Top-Level Domain (TLD).

Technical Roles

The Registry is the authoritative source for its TLD. Its duties include:

• Zone File Generation: Publishing the zone file that directs global DNS traffic to the correct nameservers for every domain in the extension.
• IDN & DNSSEC Management: Enforcing policies for special characters and managing the cryptographic signing of the TLD zone.
• WHOIS/RDAP Server: Operating the directory service that provides public information about registered domains.

Operational Roles

Registries generally do not sell directly to the public. Instead, they:

• Define the Acceptable Use Policies for the TLD.
• Set the wholesale price for domains.
• Accredit and connect with Registrars via EPP.

Registrar What is a Domain Name Registrar?

See also

• Domain name registry on Wikipedia