ICANN Round 2 of new gTLDs: is it mandatory to deposit data of a Registry with an escrow agent?

Yes, it is mandatory for gTLD Registry Operators (including those from the New gTLD Program, which is often referred to as "Round 1" and the anticipated "Round 2") to deposit certain registration data with an ICANN-approved Data Escrow Agent (DEA).

This requirement is a key part of the contractual agreement between the Registry Operator and ICANN (the Registry Agreement).

🔑 Key Points

• Mandatory Requirement: Registry Operators are required by their Registry Agreements to escrow specific registration data.
• Purpose: The primary purpose of Registry Data Escrow is to protect the interests of domain name registrants and ensure the stability of the DNS. The escrowed data serves as a continuity mechanism in the event of a Registry Operator's technical, financial, or business failure.
• Agent: The data must be deposited with an ICANN-approved Data Escrow Agent (DEA).
• Schedule: Deposits are typically required on a regular schedule (e.g., daily incremental updates and weekly full deposits).

This requirement is a long-standing and essential safeguard mechanism within ICANN's regulatory framework for generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs).