When registering a domain name, there are always three parties involved: the registry, registrar, and registrant. In this article, we’ll explain the role of each party and how they are interconnected.
A registry is the manager of a top-level domain (TLD) or domain extension, responsible for all (technical) aspects related to the management of that extension. This includes managing the domain name registration system, DNS infrastructure, marketing of the domain extension, and compliance with ICANN requirements.
It is common for a registry to manage multiple domain extensions. This may be due to the suitability of their technical infrastructure or because it is commercially advantageous. Here are some examples:
A registrar is an officially recognized entity authorized to sell the respective domain extension. Registrars often must meet strict requirements to offer specific domain extensions.
However, it may sometimes be more cost-effective to collaborate with other registrars to collectively purchase domain extensions. For instance, this can be beneficial when acquiring a specific domain extension for a single client without incurring significant annual registrar fees.
Additionally, registrars provide essential services, such as 24/7 domain name registration and the management of existing domain names.
A registrant is the person or company that registers a domain name through the registrar. By registering a domain name, one automatically becomes a registrant.
When changes are made to the domain name, the registrar ensures that these updates are recorded in the registry’s database.
It’s important to note that registrants must also comply with additional terms and conditions. These requirements may vary depending on the registry but are generally quite similar.
