TLD Operator (Registry Operator)

A TLD operator (formally called a [[registry-operator|registry operator]]) is the entity authorized by [[icann|ICANN]] to administer all registrations within a specific [[tld|top-level domain]]. TLD operators maintain the authoritative [[dns|DNS]] zone for their TLD, set wholesale pricing and eligibility policies, publish registry data through RDAP/WHOIS, and must comply with ICANN's Registry Agreement. For [[gtld|gTLDs]], operators contract directly with ICANN; for [[cctld|ccTLDs]], oversight may be delegated to the relevant national government or designated authority.