IANA: Difference between revisions

Latest revision as of 00:24, 12 July 2024

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) is a department of ICANN that is responsible for maintaining the registries of the Internet's unique identifiers, which include domain names, Protocol Parameters, and Internet numbers (IP Addresses and Autonomous System Numbers).

IANA distributes blocks of IP addresses to the five (5) Regional Internet Registries (RIRs).

Short overview[edit | edit source]

As the Internet evolved, there was a need for a centralized organization which would fulfill the followings tasks/needs:

To take responsibility for managing parameters
To make sure that everyone uses the same protocols and parameters
To coordinate the assignment of identifiers
To ensure that the creation and allocation of addresses and domain names is done accurately, based on principles which are acceptable for everyone.

The organization which was responsible for these tasks/needs is IANA. Due to the Internet growth during the 1990's there was also the need for an organization that would take responsibility over the central registration of domain names and addresses. This is how ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) was created. ^[1]

ICANN is responsible for the centralization of registration tasks related to IP addresses, DNS assignment and protocol parameters management, but ICANN does not replace IANA. There are many differences between ICANN and IANA, especially regarding their attributions, objectives and responsibilities.

IANA vs ICANN[edit | edit source]

IANA is the institution which runs TLDs (Top-Level Domains) and deals with the assignment of IP addresses and ranges, ports, and other related attributes.^[2]

ICANN, based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is the institution which runs IANA.

IANA Functions[edit | edit source]

Besides managing the DNS root zone, IANA also manages the .int registry, and the .arpa zone;
Regarding number resources, IANA is entitled to coordinate the global IP respectively AS number space, allocating these to RIRs (Regional Internet Registries);
IANA represents the main repository for number registries and protocol names. ^[3]

Domain Names[edit | edit source]

IANA is responsible for the administration of domain names which involves liaisons of TLD operators, with root name server operators, as well as operating with .int and .arpa zone.

In order to enable and better manage the allocation of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs), IANA developed "IDN tables" which supply information related to admitted characters in different languages and other TLD related information. ^[4]

Protocol parameters[edit | edit source]

Based on IETF protocols, IANA is responsible with the administration of URI schemes (Uniform Resource Identifier) and character encoding for Internet use.

IP Address[edit | edit source]

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to every device connected to the Internet i.e PCs,tablets,smartphones, printers e.t.c.

IANA is responsible for the delegation of IP Addresses to RIRs. In their turn, each RIR (Regional Internet Registry) is responsible for the allocation of IP addresses depending on the zone/area they are managing. In the same way, when a RIR requests for more IP Addresses for allocation, IANA evaluates the request and is able to make an additional allocation for RIR. ^[5]

IANA Contract[edit | edit source]

Originally, the IANA functions were managed by the University of Southern California – Information Sciences Institute through the leadership of Dr. Jon Postel under a contract with the Defense Advance Research Project Agency (DARPA).^[6]

In 1997, the United States government under Pres. Bill Clinton's administration, approved the transition of the technical management of the Domain Name System (DNS), including the IANA functions, to the private sector. On January 30, 1998, the Department of Commerce (DOC) released the Green Paper recommending the establishment of a new, private, non-profit organization to take over the management of the DNS. The global internet stakeholders shared their comments and recommendations regarding the Green Paper, which were compiled and studied by the NTIA. In June 1998, NTIA published the White Paper, which contains the policy statement of the U.S. government regarding the transition process for the technical management of the DNS to a new corporation to be created based on the principles of stability, competition, private bottom-up coordination, and representation.^[7]

On November 25, 1998, the Department of Commerce formally recognized ICANN as the new organization responsible for administering the DNS through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by both parties.^[8] This came about as a result of the infamous "DNS Wars".

The Department of Commerce awarded a contract to ICANN to manage the IANA functions on February 9, 2000.^[9] The agreement was renewed several times in 2001,^[10] 2003, ^[11] and 2006 ^[12]. The contract in 2006 was modified several times. The latest modification extended ICANN's contract until September 30, 2012.^[13]

With the expiration of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) Functions contract, a new phase of the status of ICANN was initiated by the National Telecommunication and information Administration’s (NTIA’s) announcement in March 2014.

This phase (the IANA stewardship transition) was expected to complete by 30th September 2015.

DOC Notice of Inquiry on IANA Functions[edit | edit source]

On February 25, 2011, the DOC through NTIA issued a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) to review the IANA functions contract. ICANN's IANA functions contract was to on September 11, 2011. The internet community was encouraged to provide their feedback to the different questions posted by NTIA that aims help improve the operations of the IANA functions.The NOI was the first comprehensive review conducted by the DOC since ICANN took over the responsibilities of the IANA functions in 2000. The deadline for comments was March 31, 2011.^[14] ^[15]

ICANN acknowledged the importance of a comprehensive review of the IANA Functions contract. ICANN suggested to change the conditions of the procurement contract between the U.S. government and Internet governing body into a Cooperative Agreement. In addition, ICANN also recommended including the principles of accountability and transparency in the next framework of the agreement and to restrict the scope of the IANA functions. ICANN wanted to continue to perform the existing IANA function by entering separate agreements with the Internet Architecture Board (IAB) and the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) to perform the port and protocol parameter registry functions and the management of .arpa top level domain name (TLD).^[16]

On June 14, 2011, the DOC issued a Further NOI to solicit public comments regarding its draft Statement of Work (SOW), which included the summary of comments submitted by the public to the first NOI, NTIA's responses, and the detailed work requirements for the IANA Functions.^[17]

46 organizations within the global internet community submitted their comments and responses to the SOW.^[18] A complete list of the respondents and the summary of their responses are available here

RFP for New IANA Functions Contract[edit | edit source]

Following the NOI, the DOC published a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the new IANA Functions contract on November 10, 2011. Interested entities were encouraged to submit their proposals until December 12, 2011. The next contract was set to commence on April 1, 2012 until March 31, 2015. The entity chosen to carry out the IANA function will have the option to extend the agreement for another 3 years. ^[19]

Some members of the internet community believe that ICANN is expected to win the IANA contract and view NTIA's decision to remove the "consensus report" as a softening of its language, while the inclusion of a conflict of interest policy seems to be one of the most significant changes.^[20] The discussion of a conflict of interest policy was notably raised by the global internet community after the departure of Peter Dengate Thrush from his position as ICANN Chairman, where he was a strong proponent of the new gTLD expansion program, and immediately joined Minds + Machines, a domain name consulting company. Sen. Ron Wyden called this to the attention of the DOC and recommended the inclusion of "strict ethics guidelines" to prevent a revolving door in the next IANA contract.^[21] ^[22]

One week after the publication of the RFP, the IANA contract was revised to include a "ban on dealing with groups classified as supporting terrorism". The DOC created a new section on data rights stating that the US government has unlimited rights in all data delivered by the contractor under the contract and all data produced through the performance of the contract. A minor revision was made to the wording of the new gTLD section; the old version states that IANA must show that ICANN “followed its policy framework” to approve a gTLD, the new version reads that it must have “followed its own policy framework.”^[23]

Requirements for IANA Functions Contract Applicants[edit | edit source]

Entities interested in applying to become manager of the IANA Functions must meet the following qualifications:^[24]

The organization/firm must be US-owned and operated or a fully accredited US college or university located within the 50 states or District of Columbia (DC)
Incorporated and organized under the laws of one of the 50 states or DC
Must be physically located within the United Stated during the entire duration of the contract
Demonstrate that all the primary systems and operations will remain in United States and all the core IANA functions identified in the contract must be performed in the US.
Show determination in carrying out its responsibilities in accordance with the standards of the FAR Subpart 9.1
Must be able to comply with all the applicable laws and regulations as well as the conditions and terms in the agreement pursuant to the solicitation
Demonstrate its capability to perform the required work and the ability to provide a "complete, reasonable and logical" cost data or projected funding

Aside from ICANN, three other organizations submitted their proposals to manage the IANA functions including:^[25]

EC Reaction to IANA RFP[edit | edit source]

On November 14, 2011, the European Commission (EC) was pleased with the decision of NTIA to open the IANA Functions Contract to other interested parties. According to Neelie Kroes, European Commission Vice-President for the Digital Agenda, "The new IANA tender is a clear step forward for global internet governance. A more transparent, independent and accountable management of the Internet domain names and other resources will reinforce the Internet's role as a global resource."^[26] The Commission noted that some of the changes implemented in the contract were based on the suggestions expressed by Kroes during the EU-US bilateral meeting with NTIA Assistant Secretary Larry Strickling in Brussels and during the IGF in Nairobi, held in May and September 2011 respectively. These changes include the provision mandating the next contractor to maintain a strict conflict of interest policy and to provide proper documentation demonstrating that the decision making process related to the introduction or modification of new gTLD is in the public interest.^[27]

NTIA Rejects ICANN's Bid & Cancels RFP[edit | edit source]

On March 10, 2012, NTIA cancelled the RFP for companies to run IANA, stating that the submitted "proposals did not meet the requirements requested by the global internet community," presumably including ICANN's proposal.^[28] Furthermore, NTIA announced that the RFP will be used at a future date, yet to be determined.^[29] Given the circumstances, the agency decided to extend ICANN's IANA contract for six months, until September 30, 2012.^[30]

NTIA Accepts ICANN Bid[edit | edit source]

On June 2, 2012, outgoing CEO Rod Beckstrom made signing the new IANA contract his last act as CEO. The new contract included additional requirements on "separation between the policy development associated with the IANA services, and implementation by the IANA functions contractor; a robust company-wide conflict of interest policy; a heightened respect for local national law; and a series of consultation and reporting requirements to increase transparency and accountability."^[31]

NTIA Transition Announcement[edit | edit source]

Main article: IANA Functions Stewardship Transition

In March 2014 NTIA released a statement that they are intent on transitioning their part of the IANA functions away from NTIA and to the global stakeholder community. The first step in this process is for ICANN to convene stakeholders and create a proposal for how the IANA functions will remain secure and unwavering. The press release outlined a number of principles which the ICANN-community drafted proposal must meet:

Must Support and enhance the multistakeholder model;
Must Maintain the security, stability, and resiliency of the Internet DNS;
Must Meet the needs and expectation of the global customers and partners of the IANA services; and,
Must Maintain the openness of the Internet.

The current NTIA contract with ICANN expires on 30 September, 2014, and members of the ICANN community took that date as a deadline for drafting and agreeing on a proposal.^[32]

ICANN subsequently published their own press release that applauded NTIA's announcement and called it a recognition of the U.S. government to ICANN's "maturation in becoming an effective multistakeholder organization".^[33]

Global media outlets picked up on the NTIA press release, with many United States media reporting that the United States Government was "giving up control of the Internet".

Roles at ICANN[edit | edit source]

VP, IANA Services and President, PTI
Senior Product Manager - IANA
IANA Services Senior Specialist
IANA Services Specialist
IANA Services Lead Specialist
Software Developer - IANA Services
Manager, IANA Continuous Improvement
IANA Operations Manager

References[edit | edit source]

[1] IANA creations

[2] IANA attributions

[3] IANA Objectives

[4] IANA domains

[5] IANA IP Addresses

[6] Improvement of Technical Management of Internet Names and Addresses; Proposed Rule

[7] Statement of Policy on the Management of Internet Names and Addresses

[8] Second Status Report Under ICANN/US Government Memorandum of Understanding

[9] IANA Contract, February 9, 2000

[10] IANA Contract 2001

[11] IANA Contract 2003

[12] IANA Contract 2006

[13] Modification 10-Extension of IANA Contract

[14] DOC Notice of Inquiry

[15] A full guide to the new IANA contract

[16] ICANN Response to the DOC Notice of Inquiry

[17] Further Notice of Inquiry

[18] Summary of public comments submitted in response to the IANA Functions Further Notice of Inquiry

[19] IANA RFP-Solicitation Number: SA1301-12-RP-IANA

[20] US puts ICANN contract up for rebid

[21] Senator calls for ICANN ethics controls

[22] So you want to run IANA? An applicant's guide

[23] US quietly revises IANA contract

[24] So you want to run IANA? An applicant's guide

[25] Interested Vendors List

[26] Digital Agenda: Commission welcomes improvements in new IANA contract

[27] European Commission gives qualified thumbs-up to IANA rebid

[28] NTIA says ICANN “does not meet the requirements” for IANA renewal

[29] Notice - Cancelled IANA Functions - Request for Proposal

[30] Notice – Extension IANA Functions Contract

[31] ICANN awarded contract to continue Performing IANA functions, DomainNews.com

[32] Press Release: NTIA Announces Intent to Transition Key Internet Domain Name Functions NTIA.doc.gov; Retrieved 09 July 2014

[33] [https://www.icann.org/resources/press-material/release-2014-03-14-en Press Release March 14, 2014

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-The '''Internet Assigned Numbers Authority''' is the entity that manages the allocation of global [[IP Address]]es, [[Root Zone|root zone]] management related to [[DNS]] (Domain Name System) and other Internet Protocols ([[IP]]).
+The '''Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA)''' is a department of ICANN that is responsible for maintaining the registries of the Internet's unique identifiers, which include [[domain name|domain names]], Protocol Parameters, and Internet numbers ([[IP Address|IP Addresses]] and [[Autonomous System Numbers]]).
+IANA distributes blocks of [[IP]] addresses to the five (5) Regional Internet Registries ([[RIR]]s).
 ==Short overview==
@@ Line 18: / Line 20: @@
 * '''[[ICANN]]''', based on the Memorandum of Understanding ([[MoU]]), is the institution which runs IANA.
-==IANA objectives==
+==IANA Functions==
 * Besides managing the [[DNS]] root zone, IANA also manages the .int registry, and the [[.arpa]] zone;
 * Regarding number resources, IANA is entitled to coordinate the global IP respectively AS number space, allocating these to [[RIR]]s (Regional Internet Registries);
@@ Line 32: / Line 34: @@
 ===IP Address===
+An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to every device connected to the Internet i.e PCs,tablets,smartphones, printers e.t.c.
 IANA is responsible for the delegation of [[IP Address]]es to [[RIR]]s. In their turn, each [[RIR]] (Regional Internet Registry) is responsible for the allocation of IP addresses depending on the zone/area they are managing. In the same way, when a RIR requests for more IP Addresses for allocation, IANA evaluates the request and is able to make an additional allocation for [[RIR]]. <ref>[http://www.iana.org/numbers/ IANA IP Addresses]</ref>
 ==IANA Contract==
-Originally, the IANA functions is managed by the Information Sciences Institute (ISI) at the University of Southern California ([[USC]]) through the leadership of Dr. [[Jon Postel]] under a contract with the Defense Advance Research Project Agency ([[DARPA]]).<ref>
+Originally, the IANA functions were managed by the [[University of Southern California – Information Sciences Institute]] through the leadership of Dr. [[Jon Postel]] under a contract with the [[DARPA|Defense Advance Research Project Agency]] (DARPA).<ref>
 [http://www.ntia.doc.gov/federal-register-notice/1998/improvement-technical-management-internet-names-and-addresses-proposed- Improvement of Technical Management of Internet Names and Addresses; Proposed Rule]</ref>
-In 1997, the United States government under Pres. Bill Clinton's administration, approved the transition of the technical management of the Domain Name System ([[DNS]]) including the IANA functions to a private sector. On January 30, 1998, the DOC released the [[Green Paper]] recommending the establishment of a new private, non-profit organization to take over the management of the DNS. The global internet stakeholders shared their comments and recommendations regarding the  Green Paper and were compiled and studied by the NTIA. On  June 1998, NTIA published the [[White Paper]], which contains the policy statement of the U.S. government regarding  the transition process for the technical management of the DNS to a new corporation that will be created based on the principles stability, competition, private bottom-up coordination and representation.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/federal-register-notice/1998/statement-policy-management-internet-names-and-addresses Statement of Policy on the Management of Internet Names and Addresses]</ref>
+In 1997, the United States government under Pres. Bill Clinton's administration, approved the transition of the technical management of the [[DNS|Domain Name System]] (DNS), including the IANA functions, to the private sector. On January 30, 1998, the [[DOC|Department of Commerce]] (DOC) released the [[Green Paper]] recommending the establishment of a new, private, non-profit organization to take over the management of the DNS. The global internet stakeholders shared their comments and recommendations regarding the  Green Paper, which were compiled and studied by the NTIA. In  June 1998, NTIA published the [[White Paper]], which contains the policy statement of the U.S. government regarding  the transition process for the technical management of the DNS to a new corporation to be created based on the principles of stability, competition, private bottom-up coordination, and representation.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/federal-register-notice/1998/statement-policy-management-internet-names-and-addresses Statement of Policy on the Management of Internet Names and Addresses]</ref>
+On November 25, 1998, the Department of Commerce formally recognized [[ICANN]] as the new organization responsible for administering the DNS through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by both parties.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/report/2000/second-status-report-department-commerce-icann Second Status Report Under ICANN/US Government Memorandum of Understanding]</ref> This came about as a result of the infamous "[http://www.iafrikan.com/2015/06/14/brief-history-of-the-internet-dns-wars-icann-iana-nita-itu-in-igf/ DNS Wars]".
-On November 25, 1998, the Department of Commerce formally recognized ICANN as the new organization responsible in administering the DNS through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by both parties.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/report/2000/second-status-report-department-commerce-icann Second Status Report Under ICANN/US Government Memorandum of Understanding]</ref>
+The Department of Commerce  awarded a contract to ICANN to manage the IANA functions on February 9, 2000.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianacontract.pdf IANA Contract, February 9, 2000]</ref> The agreement was renewed several times in 2001,<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/sb1335-01-w-0650.pdf IANA Contract 2001]</ref> 2003, <ref>
+[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianaorder_03142003.pdfand IANA Contract 2003]</ref> and 2006 <ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianacontract_081406.pdf IANA Contract 2006]</ref>. The contract in 2006 was modified several times. The latest modification extended ICANN's contract until September 30, 2012.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/sa1301-06-cn-0048_mod_0010_executed.pdf Modification 10-Extension of IANA Contract]</ref>
-The Department of Commerce ([[DOC]]) awarded a contract to ICANN to manage the IANA functions on February 9, 2000.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianacontract.pdf IANA Contract, February 9, 2000]</ref> The agreement was renewed several times in 2001,<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/sb1335-01-w-0650.pdf IANA Contract 2001]</ref> 2003, <ref>
+With the expiration of the <strong>Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA)</strong> Functions contract, a new phase of the status of ICANN was initiated by the National Telecommunication and information Administration’s (NTIA’s) announcement in March 2014.
-[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianaorder_03142003.pdfand IANA Contract 2003]</ref> and 2006 <ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/ianacontract_081406.pdf IANA Contract 2006]</ref>. The contract in 2006 was modified several times. The latest modification extended ICANN's contract for another 6 months until September 30, 2012.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/sa1301-06-cn-0048_mod_0010_executed.pdf Modification 10-Extension of IANA Contract]</ref>
+This phase (the IANA stewardship transition) was expected to complete by 30th September 2015.
 ===DOC Notice of Inquiry on IANA Functions===
-On February 25, 2011, the DOC through [[NTIA]] issued a '''Notice of Inquiry (NOI)''' to review the IANA functions contract. ICANN's IANA functions contract expires on September 11, 2011. The internet community was encouraged to provide their feedback to the different questions posted by NTIA that aims help improve the operations of the IANA functions.The NOI is the first comprehensive review conducted by the DOC since ICANN took over the responsibilities of the IANA functions in 2000. The deadline for comments was scheduled on March 31, 2011.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_ianafunctionsnoi_02252011.pdf DOC Notice of Inquiry]</ref> <ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/17/full-guide-iana-contract A full guide to the new IANA contract]</ref>
+On February 25, 2011, the DOC through [[NTIA]] issued a [http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_ianafunctionsnoi_02252011.pdf Notice of Inquiry (NOI)] to review the IANA functions contract. ICANN's IANA functions contract was to on September 11, 2011. The internet community was encouraged to provide their feedback to the different questions posted by NTIA that aims help improve the operations of the IANA functions.The NOI was the first comprehensive review conducted by the DOC since ICANN took over the responsibilities of the IANA functions in 2000. The deadline for comments was  March 31, 2011.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_ianafunctionsnoi_02252011.pdf DOC Notice of Inquiry]</ref> <ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/17/full-guide-iana-contract A full guide to the new IANA contract]</ref>
-ICANN acknowledged the importance of a comprehensive review on the IANA Functions contract. ICANN suggested to change the conditions of the procurement contract between the U.S. government and internet governing body   into a Cooperative Agreement. In addition, ICANN also recommended the include the principles of accountability and transparency in the next framework of the agreement and to restrict the scope of the IANA functions. ICANN will continue to perform the existing IANA function by entering separate agreements with the Internet Architecture Board ([[IAB]]) and the Internet Engineering Task Force ([[IETF]]) to perform the port and protocol parameter registry functions and the management of [[.arpa]] top level domain name ([[TLD]]).<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/comments/110207099-1099-01/attachments/ACF2EF.pdf ICANN Response to the DOC Notice of Inquiry]</ref>
+ICANN acknowledged the importance of a comprehensive review of the IANA Functions contract. ICANN suggested to change the conditions of the procurement contract between the U.S. government and Internet governing body into a Cooperative Agreement. In addition, ICANN also recommended including the principles of accountability and transparency in the next framework of the agreement and to restrict the scope of the IANA functions. ICANN wanted to continue to perform the existing IANA function by entering separate agreements with the [[IAB|Internet Architecture Board]] (IAB) and the [[IETF|Internet Engineering Task Force]] (IETF) to perform the port and protocol parameter registry functions and the management of [[.arpa]] top level domain name ([[TLD]]).<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/comments/110207099-1099-01/attachments/ACF2EF.pdf ICANN Response to the DOC Notice of Inquiry]</ref>
-On June 14, 2011, DOC issued a '''Further NOI''' to solicit public comments regarding its draft '''Statement of Work (SOW)''', which consists the summary of comments submitted by the public to the first NOI,  the response of the NTIA and the detailed work requirements for the IANA Functions.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_iana_furthernoi_06142011.pdf Further Notice of Inquiry]</ref>
+On June 14, 2011, the DOC issued a [http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_iana_furthernoi_06142011.pdf Further NOI] to solicit public comments regarding its draft Statement of Work (SOW), which included the summary of comments submitted by the public to the first NOI,  NTIA's responses, and the detailed work requirements for the IANA Functions.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/files/ntia/publications/fr_iana_furthernoi_06142011.pdf Further Notice of Inquiry]</ref>
+organizations within the global internet community submitted their comments and responses to the SOW.<ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/08/15/iana-fnoi-summary-by-sender#auda Summary of public comments submitted in response to the IANA Functions Further Notice of Inquiry]</ref>  A complete list of the respondents and the summary of their responses are available [http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/08/15/iana-fnoi-summary-by-sender#auda here]
 ===RFP for New IANA Functions Contract===
-Following the NOI, the DOC published a '''Request for Proposal (RFP)''' for the new IANA Functions contract on November 10, 2011. Interested entities were encouraged to submit their proposals until December 12, 2011. The next contract is set to commence on April 1, 2012 until March 31, 2015. The entity that will be chosen to carry out the IANA function will have the option to extend the agreement for another 3 years.
+Following the NOI, the DOC published a '''Request for Proposal (RFP)''' for the new IANA Functions contract on November 10, 2011. Interested entities were encouraged to submit their proposals until December 12, 2011. The next contract was set to commence on April 1, 2012 until March 31, 2015. The entity chosen to carry out the IANA function will have the option to extend the agreement for another 3 years.
 <ref>[https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=c564af28581edb2a7b9441eccfd6391d&tab=core&_cview=0 IANA RFP-Solicitation Number: SA1301-12-RP-IANA]</ref>
-Some members of the internet community believe that ICANN is expected to win the IANA contract and view NTIA's decision to remove the "consensus report" as a "softening language" and the inclusion of conflict of interest policy is one of the most significant issue facing ICANN.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/us-puts-icann-contract-up-for-rebid/ US puts ICANN contract up for rebid]</ref> The issue of conflict of interest was raised by the global internet community after the departure [[Peter Dengate Thrush]] from his position as ICANN Chairman and a strong proponent of the new [[gTLD]] expansion program immediately joined [[Minds + Machines]], a domain name consulting company. Sen. [[Ron Wyden]] called the attention of the DOC on this issue and recommended the inclusion of "strict ethics guidelines" to prevent the revolving door in the next IANA contract.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/senator-calls-for-icann-ethics-controls/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DomainIncite+%28DomainIncite.com%29 Senator calls for ICANN ethics controls]</ref> <ref>
+Some members of the internet community believe that ICANN is expected to win the IANA contract and view NTIA's decision to remove the "consensus report" as a softening of its language, while the inclusion of a conflict of interest policy seems to be one of the most significant changes.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/us-puts-icann-contract-up-for-rebid/ US puts ICANN contract up for rebid]</ref> The discussion of a conflict of interest policy was notably raised by the global internet community after the departure of [[Peter Dengate Thrush]] from his position as ICANN Chairman, where he was a strong proponent of the [[New gTLD Program|new gTLD expansion program]], and immediately joined [[Minds + Machines]], a domain name consulting company. Sen. [[Ron Wyden]] called this to the attention of the DOC and recommended the inclusion of "strict ethics guidelines" to prevent a revolving door in the next IANA contract.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/senator-calls-for-icann-ethics-controls/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DomainIncite+%28DomainIncite.com%29 Senator calls for ICANN ethics controls]</ref> <ref>
 [http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/17/iana-applicant-guide So you want to run IANA? An applicant's guide]</ref>
-One week after the publication of the RFP, revised the IANA contract and included the ''"ban on dealing with groups classified as supporting terrorism. The DOC created a new section on data rights stating that the US governments has unlimited rights in all data delivered by the contractor under the contract and all data first produced in the performance of the contract."'' A minor revision was made on the wordings of the new gTLDs section. The old version was written IANA must show that ICANN “followed its policy framework” to approve a gTLD. The new version reads; it must have “followed its own policy framework.”<ref>[http://domainincite.com/us-quietly-revises-iana-contract/ US quietly revises IANA contract]</ref>
+One week after the publication of the RFP, the IANA contract  was revised to include a "ban on dealing with groups classified as supporting terrorism". The DOC created a new section on data rights stating that the US government has unlimited rights in all data delivered by the contractor under the contract and all data produced through the performance of the contract. A minor revision was made to the wording of the new gTLD section; the old version states that IANA must show that ICANN “followed its policy framework” to approve a gTLD, the new version reads that it must have “followed its own policy framework.”<ref>[http://domainincite.com/us-quietly-revises-iana-contract/ US quietly revises IANA contract]</ref>
 ===Requirements for IANA Functions Contract Applicants===
-Entities interested in applying to become the new manager of the IANA Functions must meet the following qualifications:<ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/17/iana-applicant-guide So you want to run IANA? An applicant's guide]</ref>
+Entities interested in applying to become manager of the IANA Functions must meet the following qualifications:<ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/17/iana-applicant-guide So you want to run IANA? An applicant's guide]</ref>
-* The organization/firm must be US-owned and operated or a fully accredited US college or university located within the 50 states on District of Columbia (DC)
+* The organization/firm must be US-owned and operated or a fully accredited US college or university located within the 50 states or District of Columbia (DC)
 * Incorporated and organized under the laws of one of the 50 states or DC
 * Must be physically located within the United Stated during the entire duration of the contract
 * Demonstrate that all the primary systems and operations will remain in United States and all the core IANA functions identified in the contract must be performed in the US.
 * Show determination in carrying out its responsibilities in accordance with the standards of the FAR Subpart 9.1
-* Must be able to comply with all the applicable laws and regulations as well as the conditions and terms in the agreement in pursuant to the solicitation
+* Must be able to comply with all the applicable laws and regulations as well as the conditions and terms in the agreement pursuant to the solicitation
-* Demonstrate its capability to perform the required scope of work and has the ability to provide a  "complete, reasonable and logical" cost data or projected funding
+* Demonstrate its capability to perform the required work and the ability to provide a  "complete, reasonable and logical" cost data or projected funding
-===Interested Applicants===
 Aside from [[ICANN]], three other organizations submitted their proposals to manage the IANA functions including:<ref>
 [https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=eb080506c4382a1e2bacde228a22b1da&tab=ivl&tabmode=list&subtab=list&subtabmode=list&= Interested Vendors List]</ref>
@@ Line 77: / Line 86: @@
 * [[Bluemont  Technology & Research, Inc.]]
 * [[.Nxt]]
+===EC Reaction to IANA RFP===
+On November 14, 2011, the [[European Commission]] (EC) was pleased with the decision of NTIA to open the IANA Functions Contract to other interested parties. According to [[Neelie Kroes]], European Commission Vice-President for the Digital Agenda, ''"The new IANA tender is a clear step forward for global internet governance. A more transparent, independent and accountable management of the Internet domain names and other resources will reinforce the Internet's role as a global resource."''<ref>[http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.doreference=IP/11/1345&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en Digital Agenda: Commission welcomes improvements in new IANA contract]</ref> The Commission noted that some of the changes implemented in the contract were based on the suggestions expressed by  Kroes during the EU-US bilateral meeting with NTIA Assistant Secretary [[Larry Strickling]] in Brussels and during the [[IGF]] in Nairobi, held in May and September 2011 respectively. These changes include the provision mandating the next contractor to maintain a strict conflict of interest policy and to provide proper documentation demonstrating that the decision making process related to the introduction or modification of new gTLD is in the public interest.<ref>[http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/11/14/analysis-of-eu-response-to-iana-rfp European Commission gives qualified thumbs-up to IANA rebid]</ref>
+===NTIA Rejects ICANN's Bid & Cancels RFP===
+On March 10, 2012, NTIA cancelled the RFP for companies to run IANA, stating that the submitted "proposals did not meet the requirements requested by the global internet community," presumably including ICANN's proposal.<ref>[http://domainincite.com/ntia-says-icann-does-not-meet-the-requirements-for-iana-renewal/ NTIA says ICANN “does not meet the requirements” for IANA renewal]</ref>  Furthermore, NTIA announced that the RFP will be used at a future date, yet to be determined.<ref>
+[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/other-publication/2012/notice-internet-assigned-numbers-authority-iana-functions-request-proposal-rf Notice - Cancelled IANA Functions - Request for Proposal]</ref> Given the circumstances, the agency decided to extend ICANN's IANA contract for six months, until September 30, 2012.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/other-publication/2012/notice-extension-internet-assigned-numbers-authority-iana-functions-contract Notice – Extension IANA Functions Contract]</ref>
+===NTIA Accepts ICANN Bid===
+On June 2, 2012, outgoing CEO [[Rod Beckstrom]] made signing the new IANA contract his last act as CEO. The new contract included additional requirements on "separation between the policy development associated with the IANA services, and implementation by the IANA functions contractor; a robust company-wide conflict of interest policy; a heightened respect for local national law; and a series of consultation and reporting requirements to increase transparency and accountability."<ref>[http://www.domainnews.com/en/icann-awarded-new-contract-to-continue-performing-iana-functions.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter ICANN awarded contract to continue Performing IANA functions, DomainNews.com]</ref>
+==NTIA Transition Announcement==
+''Main article: [[IANA Functions Stewardship Transition]]''
+In March 2014 [[NTIA]] released a statement that they are intent on transitioning their part of the IANA functions away from NTIA and to the global stakeholder community. The first step in this process is for ICANN to convene stakeholders and create a proposal for how the IANA functions will remain secure and unwavering. The press release outlined a number of principles which the ICANN-community drafted proposal must meet:
+* Must Support and enhance the multistakeholder model;
+* Must Maintain the security, stability, and resiliency of the Internet DNS;
+* Must Meet the needs and expectation of the global customers and partners of the IANA services; and,
+* Must Maintain the openness of the Internet.
+The current NTIA contract with ICANN expires on 30 September, 2014, and members of the ICANN community took that date as a deadline for drafting and agreeing on a proposal.<ref>[http://www.ntia.doc.gov/press-release/2014/ntia-announces-intent-transition-key-internet-domain-name-functions Press Release: NTIA Announces Intent to Transition Key Internet Domain Name Functions] ''NTIA.doc.gov''; Retrieved 09 July 2014</ref>
+ICANN subsequently published their own press release that applauded NTIA's announcement and called it a recognition of the U.S. government to ICANN's "maturation in becoming an effective multistakeholder organization".<ref>[https://www.icann.org/resources/press-material/release-2014-03-14-en Press Release March 14, 2014</ref>
+Global media outlets picked up on the NTIA press release, with many United States media reporting that the United States Government was "giving up control of the Internet".
+==Roles at ICANN==
+* VP, IANA Services and President, PTI
+* Senior Product Manager - IANA
+* IANA Services Senior Specialist
+* IANA Services Specialist
+* IANA Services Lead Specialist
+* Software Developer - IANA Services
+* Manager, IANA Continuous Improvement
+* IANA Operations Manager
 ==References==