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What is the difference between a registrar and a registry?

When dealing with domain names, you may come across the terms registrar and registry. While they sound similar, they serve distinct roles in the domain name system (DNS). Here’s a clear explanation of each and how they differ.


What is a Registrar?

A registrar is a company or organization authorized by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) to sell and manage domain names on behalf of end-users.

Functions of a Registrar:

  1. Allows users to search for and register available domain names.
  2. Provides tools to manage domain settings (e.g., DNS records, domain locking).
  3. Offers additional services like domain privacy, email hosting, and SSL certificates.

Examples of Registrars:

  • GoDaddy
  • Namecheap
  • Google Domains

Analogy: A registrar is like a retail store where you buy domain names.


What is a Registry?

A registry is an organization that operates and manages specific TLDs (Top-Level Domains) like .com, .org, or .in. Registries maintain the central database of all registered domain names under their TLDs and ensure these domains are accessible on the internet.

Functions of a Registry:

  1. Maintains the master database for a specific TLD.
  2. Establishes policies and guidelines for their TLD.
  3. Works with registrars to distribute domain names.

Examples of Registries:

  • VeriSign (manages .com and .net)
  • PIR (Public Interest Registry, manages .org)
  • NIXI (National Internet Exchange of India, manages .in)

Analogy: A registry is like a manufacturer that produces domain names for specific TLDs.


Key Differences Between Registrar and Registry

AspectRegistrarRegistry
RoleSells domains to users.Manages the TLD database.
InteractionInteracts with end-users.Interacts with registrars.
ExamplesGoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.VeriSign, PIR, NIXI, etc.
Services OfferedDomain registration, DNS settings, domain privacy, etc.Operates TLDs and maintains domain records.

How They Work Together

When you register a domain:

  1. You buy it through a registrar, which acts as a middleman.
  2. The registrar communicates with the registry to add your domain to the TLD’s database.
  3. Once the domain is added, it becomes live and accessible on the internet.

Conclusion

Both registrars and registries are crucial to the domain name system. Registrars help you acquire and manage your domain, while registries ensure that the domain operates properly within its TLD. Understanding their roles can help you navigate domain-related processes with ease.

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