Domain Names & ICANN

The domain name system (DNS) is a key piece of the internet's infrastructure. Without the DNS, internet users would have to remember long and complicated numbers (called IP numbers) when they send an e-mail or visit a web-site. The DNS maps these numbers onto words or characters - called domain names - making internet addresses easier to remember.

ICANN is the US based not-for-profit organisation that co-ordinates the DNS worldwide.

The UK Government has followed the progress of ICANN closely since it was created in 1998. We are a member of the ICANN Government Advisory Committee (GAC) that provides advice to ICANN on public policy matters. In February 2002 ICANN called for full reform of its mission, funding and relationship with Governments. We, along with other Governments and stakeholders, are working closely with ICANN on its informal reform process. In June 2002 the Government closed the consultation on ICANN, the formal Government response is available here (120Kb).

ENUM

ENUM (electronic number mapping) is a key development in the convergence of telecommunication and Internet Protocol (IP) networks. ENUM can give customers access to any services associated (Phone, Mobile, e-Mail etc) with the called number.

An industry working group for the UK, known as the United Kingdom ENUM Group (UKEG), was launched with the full support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in September 2001. Across 2003 / 2004 ENUM is being trialled and commercial services will then be launched. A public consultation will then take place in mid 2003.

For further information on the ENUM project, see the DTI's ENUM ENUM (ELECTRONIC NUMBER MAPPING) REPORT in the Download Centre.