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String Similarity Data for top-level domains, available for Public Comment
by Satish Babu Oct. 25, 2025

Oct. 25, 2025

Dear all Please see the message below on the availability of Unicode-based String Similarity Data, to be used for identifying similar top-level strings, for public comments. The public comment is open until 4 Dec 2025. With kind regards satish ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Sarmad Hussain <sarmad.hussain(a)icann.org> Date: Sat, Oct 25, 2025 at 11:19 AM Subject: Public comment on String Similarity Data for top-level domains To: Satish Babu <sbabu(a)ieee.org> Cc: Heidi Ullrich <Heidi.Ullrich(a)icann.org> Dear Satish, Following up on discussion right now, please note that ICANN has recently developed the string similarity data <https://www.icann.org/sites/default/files/packages/lgr/sse/sse-data-overvie…> (Section 3) based on Unicode characters to help identify similar strings in top-level domain applications. This has been published for public comment <https://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/proceeding/string-similarity-evalua…> (open until 4 December 2025). The data covers the repertoire of the 27 scripts included in Root Zone Label Generation Rules <https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/root-zone-lgr-2015-06-21-en> (RZ-LGR). The data is strictly based on visual similarity and builds on top of the “same” characters already identified in RZ-LGR through variant relationship. The data has been collected by script experts and tagged at a level of similarity between levels 1-5 (levels 1-3 indicating probable similarity; 4-5 not considered similar enough). The data covers the following scripts: Arabic, Armenian, Bangla, Chinese (Han), Cyrillic, Devanagari, Ethiopic, Georgian, Greek, Gujarati, Gurmukhi, Hebrew, Japanese (Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji [Han]), Kannada, Khmer, Korean (Hangul and Hanja [Han]), Lao, Latin, Malayalam, Myanmar, Oriya, Sinhala, Tamil, Telugu, Thaana, and Thai. We would invite the relevant ALAC team to take a look at the data and share any feedback. We would also request you to help share it in the relevant networks to seek further input from those interested. Regards, Sarmad

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SSAC has published SAC132: The Domain Name System Runs on Free and Open Source Software (FOSS)
by Matthias M. Hudobnik Oct. 14, 2025

Oct. 14, 2025

Hi colleagues, the SSAC has published SAC132. ### SSAC has published SAC132: The Domain Name System Runs on Free and Open Source Software (FOSS): Overview • The Domain Name System (DNS) is critical infrastructure, mapping names to IP addresses for nearly all online activity. • Research confirms the DNS overwhelmingly relies on FOSS. o 9 of 12 root server operators use FOSS exclusively. o 9 of the 10 largest TLD providers use FOSS. • FOSS dominance comes from its economic efficiency, transparency, collaborative security, and resilience. • FOSS is not inherently more or less secure than proprietary software; outcomes depend on processes and maintenance. • However, the FOSS development model differs fundamentally from proprietary supply chains, raising unique risks. 1. Introduction • Policymakers are increasingly intervening in software security (UK voluntary code, US attestation, EU Cyber Resilience Act and NIS2, China’s IT plan). • Risk: regulations designed for proprietary models may harm critical Internet infrastructure if applied to FOSS without adaptation. • Aim: provide context to policymakers to recognize FOSS’s role and avoid destabilizing interventions. 2. DNS Primer • DNS = “address book of the Internet.” • Functions: o Registration: registries manage the authoritative database of domain names. o Publication: authoritative servers publish DNS records. o Resolution: resolvers fetch IP addresses for users. • Structure: Root → TLDs → individual domains. • Resolvers answer ~90% of queries from cache; authoritative servers publish definitive records. 3. The FOSS Model: Characteristics and Implications • Key roles: o Maintainers: guide project direction. o Contributors: submit code/docs/bug fixes. o Operators: deploy and run software. • Four freedoms: use, study, share, change. • Unique characteristics: o Global collaborative development. o No contractual relationships. o Funding decoupled from use. o Often no single responsible legal entity. • Proprietary systems also depend on FOSS components. • Strengths: o Transparency & collaborative security . o Stability & long-term support by non-profits/companies. o Resilience via software diversity. o Enabler of innovation and digital autonomy. • Risks : o Financial sustainability & maintainer burnout. o Shared dependency risks. o No warranties or support guarantees. o Operational risks in deployment. 4. Prevalence of FOSS in DNS • Registration: Platforms like FRED, Nomulus, CoCCA widely used. Large registries use proprietary extensions but built atop FOSS. • Publication: Root and TLD servers overwhelmingly use FOSS. 9 of 12 root operators rely on FOSS. • Resolution: BIND, Unbound, Knot Resolver, CoreDNS common. ISPs, enterprises, and cloud resolvers widely deploy FOSS. 5. Contemporary Cases in FOSS Regulation • Policymakers are adapting rules to reflect FOSS realities. • Examples: o US 2023 Cybersecurity Strategy: exempts volunteer maintainers; responsibility on deployers. o UK 2025 Code of Practice: voluntary guidance. o EU CRA/NIS2: introduces “FOSS steward” role, avoids treating maintainers as suppliers, harmonizes obligations. • Policy lessons: 1. Allocate responsibility to those best able to act. 2. Incentivize cross-industry collaboration on maintenance. 3. Avoid supply chain assumptions based on proprietary models. 4. Avoid conflicting regional obligations. 6. Key Findings 1. FOSS is the foundation of DNS; proprietary is the exception. 2. FOSS model is fundamentally different from proprietary software supply chains. 3. FOSS is not inherently more/less secure; security depends on processes. 4. DNS FOSS strengths: transparency, collaborative security, diversity, long-term stability. 5. Risks: sustainability, burnout, shared dependencies — not solvable by proprietary regulations. 6. Traditional liability is ill-suited: imposing burdens risks discouraging maintainers and harming infrastructure. 7. FOSS enables autonomy and innovation: lowers entry barriers, supports local industry, diversifies markets, reduces cloud dependence. 7. Actionable Guidelines for Policymakers 1. Acknowledge the Critical Role of FOSS o Explicitly recognize in law/regulation that critical infrastructure depends on FOSS; treat it as a strength to preserve. 2. Consult the FOSS Community o Engage maintainers, contributors, non-profits, and companies in policymaking. 3. Make Use of Contemporary Cases o Apply lessons: responsibility on deployers not maintainers, support FOSS steward models, avoid proprietary assumptions, prevent conflicting regional regimes. 4. Incentivize FOSS Sustainability o Promote public/private funding of critical FOSS projects as investments in shared goods. 5. Address Systemic Risks Collectively o Fund ecosystem-wide resilience (dependency tooling, research, security initiatives) instead of overburdening individuals. Conclusion The SSAC concludes: • The DNS runs on FOSS, a global public good central to Internet stability. • Policymakers must avoid treating FOSS with proprietary assumptions. • Following the five guidelines — acknowledge, consult, learn, incentivize, collaborate — ensures security and sustainability of DNS and the Internet as a whole. Link to the report: https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/security-and-stability-advisory-committe…. Have a nice day! Best, Matthias ______________________________ Ing. Mag. Matthias M. Hudobnik FIP • CIPP/E • CIPT • DPO • CIS LA matthias(a)hudobnik.at http://www.hudobnik.at @mhudobnik

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APRALO Bytes - Regional Internet Registry Governance, 14 Oct 2025
by Justine Chew Oct. 14, 2025

Oct. 14, 2025

Hello everyone, Here is the latest *APRALO Byte*, which is on the topic of *Regional Internet Registry governance*, published at https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/APRALO/pages/412844037/AP… (click on 'Read more'). In brief, we draw attention to the ongoing *review of the Internet Coordination Policy - 2 (ICP-2) Document *by the Address Supporting Organization (ASO) and the ALAC's position on the second version of the draft “Governance Document for the Recognition, Operation, and Derecognition of Regional Internet Registries” to update the ICP-2. More details are in the Byte. Kind regards, APRALO Leadership Team ---------------------- *APRALO Bytes* (see: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/BYCbG) is an APRALO initiative aimed at *keeping the community apprised* of issues or topics of importance to the At-Large and/or APRALO community in a manner that is* issue/topic-focused, informative yet lightweight*, *while encouraging community interest and discourse* in such issues/topics.

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Speaking list for 13 and 14 Oct Informal Interactive WSIS+20 stakeholder consultations
by Amrita Choudhury Oct. 10, 2025

Oct. 10, 2025

Hi All The speaking lists for the 13 and 14 October Virtual Informal Interactive WSIS stakeholder consultations on the Zero-Draft have been finalized and are now public here <https://publicadministration.desa.un.org/sites/default/files/2021-04/2025/W…> . The recordings and other outputs from the sessions will be made available here <https://publicadministration.desa.un.org/wsis20/octconsultations>. Regards Amrita

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SAC131 SSAC Comments on Functional Model for Root Server System Governance
by Matthias M. Hudobnik Oct. 1, 2025

Oct. 1, 2025

Dear all, The SSAC commends the Root Server System (RSS) Governance Working Group (GWG) for developing the proposed Functional Model, a significant step toward evolving RSS governance. We acknowledge the Root Server Operators’ (RSOs) critical role in ensuring DNS stability through independent, resilient, and technologically advanced operations. The SSAC supports the Functional Model as a foundation for future RSS governance but highlights areas needing further clarity: · Governance Principles: Define clear principles to guide decision-making and governance evolution. · Implementation Roadmap: Develop a staged plan balancing continuity and governance maturity. · Inclusivity and Transparency: Ensure accountability and diverse stakeholder participation. · Funding Stability: Explore sustainable funding to maintain RSS security and resilience. Regarding the RSSAC037 Concept Model, the SSAC recommends the RSS Council address: · Operationalization: Provide a detailed plan to implement the Concept Model. · High-Level Principles: Specify processes, e.g., for RSO designation/removal. · Operational Details: Define secretariat formation, funding mechanisms, and ICANN community relations. · Interactions: Clarify relationships with bodies like CSC, RZERC, and SSAC. The SSAC urges the RSS Council to prioritize these operational specifics, maintain transparency, and consult the community throughout implementation. We look forward to offering further support to enhance RSS security, stability, and accountability. Link: HYPERLINK "https://itp.cdn.icann.org/en/files/security-and-stability-advisory-committe…"SAC131 SSAC Comments on Functional Model for Root Server System Governance. SAC131 has also been submitted as the SSAC’s response to the Functional Model for Root Server System Governance: https://www.icann.org/en/public-comment/proceeding/functional-model-for-roo… Best, Matthias __________________________ Ing. Mag. Matthias M. Hudobnik FIP, CIPP/E, CIPT, DPO, CIS LA matthias(a)hudobnik.at http://www.hudobnik.at @mhudobnik

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HAPPY HOSH HASHANAH!!
by Vanda Scartezini Sept. 25, 2025

Sept. 25, 2025

Dear all If you are celebrating Hosh Hashanah, an important occasion, my best wishes are for a peaceful and joyful celebration! Vanda Scartezini DNS WOMEN Sao Paulo, Brazil + 55 11 98181-1464 Vanda(a)Scartezini.org www.dnswomen.org

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Re: Fw: Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book
by Kaleel Bin Javeed Sept. 24, 2025

Sept. 24, 2025

I will also recommend it. Nice to have ! It is a very good reference guide book for the whole Internet history, the future of the Internet, Internet Governance and for the community. Dr. Kaleel Bin Javeed, PhD Associate Professor, Research and Development On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Abba wrote: Nice comprehensive book. I have received a shared coupon for community-use from the author. You can use coupon code: INTECO10, you will receive the book at a discounted price for those interested. Abba Saheb, PhD CTO *From:* Nikesh B. Simmandree <nikeshbs(a)outlook.com> *Sent:* Monday, August 18, 2025 1:35 PM *To:* alac-announce(a)icann.org <alac-announce(a)icann.org>; alac(a)icann.org < alac(a)icann.org>; at-large(a)icann.org <at-large(a)icann.org>; afri-discuss(a)icann.org <afri-discuss(a)icann.org> *Subject:* Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book Dear Community, I am thrilled to announce the launch of my book, *The Internet Ecosystem* — a comprehensive exploration of the history, architecture, governance, and future of the Internet. This book distills decades of technological evolution — from ARPANET and packet switching, to AI, Web3, quantum networks, and beyond — into a clear, engaging narrative accessible to both technical and non-technical readers *What the Book Covers* - *The Past:* How Cold War research, ARPANET, and packet switching gave birth to the Internet we know today. - *The Present:* The intricate roles of ISPs, backbone providers, cloud infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance shaping our daily online experiences. - *The Future:* Insights into 5G/6G, blockchain, immersive technologies, quantum security, and the Internet in 2050. With *49 detailed chapters*, the book provides a definitive yet approachable reference for students, professionals, policymakers, and curious readers alike. My mission with *The Internet Ecosystem* is to make the Internet’s complexity understandable — showing not only *how* the Internet works, but also *why* it matters and has become one of the most transformative human inventions — while sparking dialogue on how we build a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital future. In the 21st century, understanding the Internet is not optional — it’s essential. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, student, or everyday Internet user, this book provides the context and clarity you need to navigate the opportunities and challenges of our connected world. *Get Your Copy* *The Internet Ecosystem* is now available: https://payhip.com/b/hfvYg Thank you, Best Regards, Nikesh B. Simmandree +230-5-907-3413 nikeshbs(a)outlook.com This message and its attachments are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and are strictly confidential. If you have received this in error, please delete it from any devices after having informed the sender.

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Fw: Re: Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book
by Ole Mubanga Sept. 23, 2025

Sept. 23, 2025

Those who wish to have a copy of the newly launched: "The Internet Ecosystem" Book. Use coupon code: INTECO10 I completed the reading and I will recommend it. A book which englobe the whole history and future of the Internet. Happy Reading ! - Ole Dear Community, > > I am thrilled to announce the launch of my book, *The Internet Ecosystem* — > a comprehensive exploration of the history, architecture, governance, and > future of the Internet. > This book distills decades of technological evolution — from ARPANET and > packet switching, to AI, Web3, quantum networks, and beyond — into a clear, > engaging narrative accessible to both technical and non-technical readers > > *What the Book Covers* > > - *The Past:* How Cold War research, ARPANET, and packet switching > gave birth to the Internet we know today. > - *The Present:* The intricate roles of ISPs, backbone providers, > cloud infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance shaping our > daily online experiences. > - *The Future:* Insights into 5G/6G, blockchain, immersive > technologies, quantum security, and the Internet in 2050. > > With *49 detailed chapters*, the book provides a definitive yet > approachable reference for students, professionals, policymakers, and > curious readers alike. > > My mission with *The Internet Ecosystem* is to make the Internet’s > complexity understandable — showing not only *how* the Internet works, > but also *why* it matters and has become one of the most transformative > human inventions — while sparking dialogue on how we build a secure, > inclusive, and sustainable digital future. > In the 21st century, understanding the Internet is not optional — it’s > essential. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, > student, or everyday Internet user, this book provides the context and > clarity you need to navigate the opportunities and challenges of our > connected world. > > *Get Your Copy* > *The Internet Ecosystem* is now available: https://payhip.com/b/hfvYg > > Thank you, > > Best Regards, > Nikesh B. Simmandree > +230-5-907-3413 > nikeshbs(a)outlook.com > > This message and its attachments are intended only for the person or > entity to which it is addressed and are strictly confidential. If you have > received this in error, please delete it from any devices after having > informed the sender. >

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Fw: Re: Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book
by Ole Mubanga Sept. 23, 2025

Sept. 23, 2025

Those who wish to have a copy of the newly launched: "The Internet Ecosystem" Book. Use coupon code: INTECO10 I completed the reading and I will recommend it. A book which englobe the whole history and future of the Internet. Happy Reading ! - Ole On Tue, Sep 02, 2025 at 3:55 PM <abbasaheb(a)atomicmail.io> wrote: > Nice comprehensive book. I have received a shared coupon for community-use > from the author. You can use coupon code: INTECO10, you will receive the > book at a discounted price for those interested. > > Abba Saheb, PhD > CTO > > ------------------------------ > *From:* Nikesh B. Simmandree <nikeshbs(a)outlook.com> > *Sent:* Monday, August 18, 2025 1:35 PM > *To:* alac-announce(a)icann.org <alac-announce(a)icann.org>; alac(a)icann.org < > alac(a)icann.org>; at-large(a)icann.org <at-large(a)icann.org>; > afri-discuss(a)icann.org <afri-discuss(a)icann.org> > *Subject:* Launch of The Internet Ecosystem Book > > Dear Community, > > I am thrilled to announce the launch of my book, *The Internet Ecosystem* — > a comprehensive exploration of the history, architecture, governance, and > future of the Internet. > This book distills decades of technological evolution — from ARPANET and > packet switching, to AI, Web3, quantum networks, and beyond — into a clear, > engaging narrative accessible to both technical and non-technical readers > > *What the Book Covers* > > - *The Past:* How Cold War research, ARPANET, and packet switching > gave birth to the Internet we know today. > - *The Present:* The intricate roles of ISPs, backbone providers, > cloud infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance shaping our > daily online experiences. > - *The Future:* Insights into 5G/6G, blockchain, immersive > technologies, quantum security, and the Internet in 2050. > > With *49 detailed chapters*, the book provides a definitive yet > approachable reference for students, professionals, policymakers, and > curious readers alike. > > My mission with *The Internet Ecosystem* is to make the Internet’s > complexity understandable — showing not only *how* the Internet works, > but also *why* it matters and has become one of the most transformative > human inventions — while sparking dialogue on how we build a secure, > inclusive, and sustainable digital future. > In the 21st century, understanding the Internet is not optional — it’s > essential. Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, educator, > student, or everyday Internet user, this book provides the context and > clarity you need to navigate the opportunities and challenges of our > connected world. > > *Get Your Copy* > *The Internet Ecosystem* is now available: https://payhip.com/b/hfvYg > > Thank you, > > Best Regards, > Nikesh B. Simmandree > +230-5-907-3413 > nikeshbs(a)outlook.com > > This message and its attachments are intended only for the person or > entity to which it is addressed and are strictly confidential. If you have > received this in error, please delete it from any devices after having > informed the sender. >

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APRALO Bytes - WSIS+20, 2 Sep 2025
by Justine Chew Sept. 3, 2025

Sept. 3, 2025

Hello everyone, Here is this week's *APRALO Byte*, which is on the topic of *WSIS+20*, published at https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/APRALO/pages/412844037/AP… (click on 'Read more'). In brief, we draw attention to the *recently released WSIS+20 Zero Draft*, for which written comments are being invited up to 26 Sep. More details are in the Byte. Kind regards, APRALO Leadership Team ---------------------- *APRALO Bytes* (see: https://icann-community.atlassian.net/wiki/x/BYCbG) is an APRALO initiative aimed at *keeping the community apprised* of issues or topics of importance to the At-Large and/or APRALO community in a manner that is* issue/topic-focused, informative yet lightweight*, *while encouraging community interest and discourse* in such issues/topics.

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