Which organization is responsible for assigning top-level domain names?

The organization responsible for assigning top-level domain names is the Internet Corporation for Assigned Numbers and Names, commonly referred to as ICANN. Established in 1998, ICANN plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating the Domain Name System (DNS), which includes the oversight of top-level domains like .com, .org, and various country code domains.

ICANN's responsibilities extend beyond just domain names; it also involves establishing policies on domain name registrations to ensure that the DNS operates smoothly and efficiently. This governance includes the delegation of domain names to different registries that manage specific top-level domains.

While organizations such as the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) manage the technical aspects of internet protocol resources, including the allocation of IP addresses and the management of the DNS root zone, the direct role of assigning top-level domain names is specifically under ICANN's jurisdiction. The other organizations mentioned focus on different aspects of internet management and standards, which do not include the direct assignment of top-level domains.