ICANN Launches Name Collision Observatory to Empower New gTLD Applicants

On 4 February 2026, ICANN announced the launch of the Name Collision Observatory, a new web-based resource designed to support applicants participating in the New gTLD Program: 2026 Round. The tool is intended to help potential applicants better understand whether a specific top-level domain (TLD) string may pose a risk of name collision if delegated into the global Domain Name System (DNS).

Name collision occurs when domain names that are intended for use within private networks or internal systems unexpectedly resolve in the public DNS, which can result in misdirected traffic or operational issues. The Observatory provides historical data that allows applicants to assess how frequently certain strings have appeared in DNS queries, offering early insight into potential collision risks.

ICANN stresses that the Observatory is an informational aid rather than a definitive decision-making mechanism. A low level of observed activity for a given string does not automatically mean it will be considered free of name collision risk during formal evaluation, as the official assessment process relies on a broader set of criteria.

How the Observatory Works and What It Shows

The Name Collision Observatory presents domain magnitude data, which focuses on the number of unique networks generating DNS queries for a particular TLD string. This approach prioritizes the diversity of sources over raw query volume, providing a clearer picture of how widely a string may be in use across the Internet. Applicants can explore this data to better understand the historical footprint of strings they are considering.

By examining these patterns, applicants can gain valuable technical context about whether a proposed TLD might overlap with existing private or legacy naming practices. Such insight can help applicants anticipate areas where additional scrutiny or mitigation measures may be required during the evaluation phase.

ICANN notes that the Observatory does not replace the formal name collision risk evaluation defined for the 2026 application round. Instead, it complements the overall process by improving transparency and enabling applicants to make more informed decisions before submitting an application.

Context Within the 2026 gTLD Program

The introduction of the Name Collision Observatory is part of ICANN’s broader preparation for the upcoming 2026 round of the New gTLD Program, which is expected to open in April 2026. This round aims to further expand the DNS by enabling new domain extensions that support innovation, competition, and greater choice for Internet users worldwide.

Name collision risk management has been a key consideration since earlier gTLD rounds, and it remains an important element of the technical evaluation framework for 2026. ICANN encourages prospective applicants to use the Observatory alongside other program materials to better understand potential risks and strengthen their applications.

Overall, the Name Collision Observatory serves as a practical, data-driven resource that enhances applicant preparedness. By offering visibility into historical DNS query behavior, ICANN reinforces its commitment to maintaining the stability and security of the DNS while supporting informed participation in the new gTLD application process.