What is Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)?

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is an international body based in the U.S. that is in charge of maintaining many of the internet's databases and their relationships with names and numbers on websites, often through domain name service (DNS) providers. ICANN is made up of many international partnership organizations and contributors from around the world that help maintain the operational efficiency and integrity of the internet. It is also largely focused on maintaining international policies that help uphold the transparency, utility, privacy, and security of the internet.