Who decides how should domains end?

The terminations of domain names, commonly known as Top-Level Domains (TLDs), are decided and managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). ICANN is a nonprofit organization that is responsible for coordinating and maintaining the system of internet namespaces and ensuring the network's stable and secure operation.

ICANN oversees the allocation and management of TLDs through a multi-stakeholder model, which includes representatives from governments, businesses, civil society, academic institutions, and individual internet users from around the world. This model ensures that the development and administration of TLD policies are inclusive and reflect the diverse interests of the global internet community.

There are several types of TLDs managed by ICANN, including:

Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs): These are the most common types of domain terminations, including .com, .org, .net, and many others. ICANN has expanded the number of gTLDs significantly through its New gTLD Program, allowing for a wide variety of new names and brands to become TLDs.

Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs): Each country or territory is assigned a two-letter ccTLD (e.g., .us for the United States, .uk for the United Kingdom). The management of ccTLDs is delegated to designated operators within the respective countries or territories, which then set their policies in accordance with local laws and ICANN guidelines.

Sponsored Top-Level Domains (sTLDs): These are a subset of gTLDs that represent a specific community, industry, or interest group. The sponsoring organization for an sTLD oversees the policies for the domain's use, but they must work within the framework established by ICANN.

ICANN's role includes evaluating applications for new TLDs, ensuring that they meet technical and operational criteria, protecting the rights of trademark owners, and addressing any concerns related to internet security and stability. The process for introducing new TLDs is comprehensive and includes public input, evaluation by expert panels, and a contract phase before a new TLD is launched.

In summary, the determination of domain name terminations (TLDs) is a complex process overseen by ICANN, involving various stakeholders to ensure the global internet's orderly and stable expansion.