ICANN launches self-service testing platform for new gTLD registry providers
ICANN has released an upgraded version of its Registry System Testing service aimed at streamlining technical evaluations for registry operators and service providers in the upcoming gTLD application round.
On 29 July 2025, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced the launch of Registry System Testing version 2.0 (RST v2.0). This tool plays a key role in verifying the technical readiness of Registry Operators (ROs) and Registry Service Providers (RSPs) involved in managing generic top-level domains (gTLDs).
RST v2.0 will be a mandatory component of the New gTLD Program: Next Round, serving as the technical evaluation mechanism for all RSPs seeking to participate. Any gTLD applicant must identify RSPs that have successfully passed testing through the new platform. In addition to evaluating RSPs, RST v2.0 will be used for Pre-Delegation Testing (PDT) — a prerequisite for any delegation request submitted by prospective ROs.
Compared to its predecessor, RST v2.0 introduces significant efficiencies. It supports parallel testing processes, reducing overall testing duration. The platform also removes the need for manual testing by ICANN engineers, replacing it with a self-service model. This change enables ROs and RSPs to manage their own technical evaluations more flexibly.
Another feature is the Operational Testing and Evaluation (OT&E) environment, which allows both current and future registry service providers to test and validate their implementations before undergoing formal evaluation in a live setting.
ICANN invites community members to use the OT&E environment and provide feedback for improvements. Access to this environment requires completing a set of steps and submitting a request either via the Naming Services portal or by contacting globalsupport@icann.org.
