What Makes a Great Registry Services Provider?
Identity Digital
January 26, 2026
ICANN’s Next Round launches in April 2026, marking the first opportunity to apply for new TLDs since 2012. If you’re planning to apply, selecting a Registry Services Provider (RSP) will be one of the most critical decisions you make. The right RSP partner can make the difference between a smooth launch and costly operational headaches.
Here’s what to look for in an RSP and how Identity Digital delivers on every front.
Experience That Counts
When you’re entrusting an RSP with your TLD operations, track record matters. Identity Digital has extensive experience managing 460+ TLDs, including notable TLDs like .org, .au, .ai, and many of the world’s dot brands. We’ve successfully completed two of the largest TLD migrations in internet history–.org with 10.6M domains and .au with 3.2M domains–both with zero DNS downtime.
This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about proven capability handling complex, high-stakes operations. When governments, Fortune 500 companies, and TLD operators need an RSP they can trust, they choose Identity Digital.
That experience extends beyond technical operations. We bring 20+ years of experience working within ICANN’s policy framework. Plus, we’ve built relationships with 1,800+ ICANN-accredited registrars representing 95% of global domain volume, giving you immediate access to an established distribution network when your TLD launches.
Modern Infrastructure Built for Scale
Technology matters as much as experience. Identity Digital is the only major registry services provider of our size running entirely on AWS cloud infrastructure. What does this mean for you? Better uptime, instant scalability, and lower operational risk compared to legacy systems.
Our global DNS network spans 80+ locations worldwide, resolving over 60 billion queries daily with 100% uptime. Whether you’re launching a dot brand TLD or a generic TLD expecting rapid growth, our infrastructure can scale with your needs seamlessly.
Proactive Security and Abuse Protection
When you’re launching a new TLD, security can’t be an afterthought. Our platform exceeds ICANN requirements and aligns with global standards including ISO 27001/2, ISO 22301, SOC 1, & NIST Cybersecurity Framework, minimizing risk and ensuring long-term stability.
But we don’t just react to abuse–we proactively defend our namespace. Our Dynamic DefenseTM model partners with global law enforcement and the DNS community to proactively identify and stop threats before they reach your TLD.
Intelligence That Drives Growth
Operating a TLD is one thing. Growing it is another. That’s where our AI-enhanced tools make a difference. Instead of sifting through endless raw data, you get actionable insights that help you optimize pricing strategies, identify growth opportunities, and make data-driven decisions that help increase revenue.
Whether you’re identifying trends, managing premium domain pricing, or planning promotional campaigns, our robust suite of tools and services provide you with the intelligence needed to maximize your TLD’s potential.
Your RSP Choice Matters
The Next Round represents a once-in-a-decade opportunity to own your corner of the internet. Your RSP choice will impact every step of the process. Choose a partner with proven experience, modern infrastructure, and the expertise to help you maximize your TLD’s potential. A partner like Identity Digital.
We’re more than just a vendor; we’re a strategic partner. To learn more about the Next Round or discuss your TLD application, contact us today at rsp@identity.digital or visit identity.digital/nextround.
