Skip to content
Skip to main content
Websites, Domains & Internet Infrastructure Foundation Explainer

What is a domain registry?

A registry maintains the authoritative record for a top-level domain or domain space. It is distinct from the registrar that deals with the customer and from the host that delivers the website.

The practical distinction

A registry may record the domain, registrar, status, dates and registry-level changes. The registrar is more likely to hold customer, payment and access records. Neither normally stores the website content.

The point to remember

Use the registry for authoritative naming and registrar information, not as a substitute for the site’s customer or host records.

Reference: WDH-011Websites, Domains & Internet Infrastructure