The Root Server System
There are 12 independent root server operators that manage 13 root identities across the globe. The ICANN organization runs one of these root identities – the ICANN Managed Root Server (IMRS). These identities represent over 1,500 individual servers, each providing identical information from the root zone to DNS resolvers all over the world.
What is the Root Zone?
The root zone holds referral information for top-level domains, which points to their domain name system servers to help resolve your device's request.
Root Server System Infographic
Interested in how it works? Explore ICANN organization's infographic here.
Root Service and You
- ICANN encourages qualified network operators to host IMRS instances in your country, territory, or region to serve root data.
- Other root server operators have programs that allow network operators to manage a root zone instance locally.
- Running an instance helps improve the security, stability, and resiliency of the Internet's DNS infrastructure in your country, territory, or region.
Learn More
Read ICANN org's overview of the Root Server System here.