How VeriSign Became the King of .com Domains


Did you know? 

The .com domain is owned by a company named VeriSign. Let me fill you in on how they became the king of .com domains!

VeriSign, founded in 1995, began as a security and authentication company. It initially gained recognition for its efforts in developing digital certificates for secure online transactions. But that was just the beginning! This foundation laid the groundwork for its eventual dominance in the domain name industry. 

Here’s how it began!

The Acquisition of Network Solutions:

VeriSign recognized the potential of the Internet. It zeroed in and acquired Network Solutions in the year 2000. This strategic acquisition didn’t just broaden VeriSign’s collection of offerings; it also handed them the rights to the domain registration game for the .com and .net extensions, starting a new course of VeriSign’s success.

Exclusive Partnership with ICANN:

After acquiring Network Solutions, VeriSign signed an agreement with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) to solidify its position further. This collaboration granted VeriSign the exclusive right to operate the authoritative registry for the .com domain. The partnership allowed VeriSign to maintain and manage the master database for all .com domains, reinforcing its dominance.

Reliability and Stability:

The company’s dedication to maintaining a reliable and stable domain name system (DNS) played a crucial role in its rise. VeriSign poured significant resources into building top-notch infrastructure and cutting-edge technology, all geared towards guaranteeing the smooth operation of the .com domain. This dedication not only elevated user satisfaction but also nurtured a strong sense of confidence in VeriSign’s capabilities.

Market Share and Numbers:

Data speaks volumes about VeriSign’s success, making it an undisputed domain king. As of 2023, VeriSign continues to manage over 37% of all registered .com domains globally, earning a yearly revenue of $1.4B, with a 6.77% increase. Insane, isn’t it?

Innovations and Outlook:

The dominance journey of VeriSign for .com domains wasn’t a leisurely stroll. It was a saga of relentless adaptation and ingenious innovation. The company adapted and innovated advanced security measures, such as DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions), to safeguard against cyber threats. This proactive approach enhanced the security of the .com domain and reinforced VeriSign’s reputation as an industry leader.

Wrapping Up!

VeriSign’s reign over .com domains wasn’t luck; it was a clever mix of takeovers, exclusive partnerships, tech smarts, and security dedication. Imagine going from a security expert to the king of .com domains – that’s like a real upgrade every company wants! And as the internet evolves, VeriSign’s legacy stands to prove how innovation and adaptability ensure authority in the industry.


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