Tldcon 2026

“Special” domains: are they necessary, and which ones? This session will explore existing and potential categories of domain names that are subject to special registration requirements, unique lifecycle policies, or other rules that differ from standard registration procedures. Particular attention will be given to domain names used by government agencies and organizations, as well as those of registered trademarks.

The session will focus on modern approaches to promoting domain zones, effective marketing strategies and tools, and best practices for successful market development.

GoCreate is an interactive session organized by DotAsia, the registry operator of the .asia top-level domain, exploring modern approaches to the promotion and development of domain names.

 Participants will discuss how emerging technologies and creative marketing strategies can unlock the full potential of domain names, expand their use, and strengthen brand recognition in the digital environment. The session will also examine the strategic value of domain name portfolios in enhancing organizations' digital presence, reaching new markets, and improving the resilience of online services.

Not long ago, malware and large-scale cyberattacks were considered the primary threats to critical information infrastructure. Today, threat actors are increasingly leveraging generative AI, automation, supply chain compromises, and attacks targeting digital trust. In the near future, autonomous AI agents may be capable of independently identifying vulnerabilities, conducting reconnaissance, and adapting their attack strategies in near real time.

This keynote will explore the most likely threat scenarios facing the internal information systems of national domain registries, examine the emerging threats shaping the evolving cyber risk landscape, and discuss practical approaches to building cyber resilience. It will highlight how security architectures, monitoring capabilities, and risk management practices must evolve to protect the organizations responsible for operating critical components of national Internet infrastructure.

Two years ago, the NetBeacon Institute issued recommendations advising registrars to review related domain names when investigating reports of domain abuse. This approach helps identify potential malicious networks at an early stage and prevent large-scale malware campaigns.

The Generic Names Supporting Organization (GNSO) is currently developing a policy that will define registrars’ responsibilities and the procedures they are expected to follow. Existing practices in generic top-level domains differ significantly from those used in country code top-level domains. Session participants will discuss the current proposals and explore how the experience of national registries can help shape international mechanisms for combating DNS abuse.

Discussion of domain taxonomy, with a focus on maliciously registered domains versus compromised legitimate domains, including similarities and differences in detection and response approaches.

The decisions made today in Internet governance shape the future of domain infrastructure, digital security, online regulation, and international digital cooperation. For young professionals, they also define the professional environment in which they will build their careers.

The TLDCON 2026 Youth Session will focus on practical opportunities for young professionals to engage in Internet governance. Through a panel discussion, participants will explore international and regional engagement platforms, the skills and competencies needed to succeed in the field, and the role of education, training, and mentorship in developing the next generation of Internet governance experts.

The session will conclude with an open dialogue featuring representatives of registries, registrars, and partner organizations, who will discuss opportunities for young professionals to participate in real-world industry projects.