Registering a domain looks like a simple purchase, but several organisations are involved behind the scenes. Knowing who does what helps you understand pricing, renewal rules and why transfers work the way they do.
Key terms
| Role | What it does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| ICANN | Coordinates the global domain system, accredits registrars for generic TLDs and sets policies such as transfer rules. | ICANN |
| Registry | Operates one or more TLDs: keeps the master database and the TLD nameservers, sets the wholesale price. | Verisign (.com), national registries for country codes |
| Registrar | Sells registrations to the public and submits them to the registry. | MdmHost and other domain companies |
| Reseller | Sells domains under its own brand through a registrar's platform. | Web designers, hosting resellers |
| Registrant | The person or company the domain is registered to: you. | You |
How a registration flows
- You search and order a domain at a registrar.
- The registrar checks availability with the registry and creates the registration for the chosen period.
- The registry adds the domain and its nameservers to the TLD zone, so it starts resolving.
- Your contact details are stored as registrant data; public visibility depends on privacy rules, see WHOIS and privacy.
What this means for you
- You are the registrant, not the registrar. Keep your contact email correct so you can approve changes and transfers.
- Prices start with the registry's wholesale price, which is why some TLDs cost more than others or change yearly.
- Rules differ by TLD. Country-code TLDs follow their own registry's policies, for example residency requirements.
- You can change registrar by transferring the domain; see how domain transfers work.
Next steps
- TLDs explained and how to choose one
- The domain lifecycle
- Register or transfer a domain with MdmHost