---
title: "What Is Root zone? Domain Glossary | Grit Brokerage"
description: "The root zone is the top level of the Domain Name System. It lists every top-level domain, such as .com and .org, and points to the servers that run each one."
url: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/root-zone
publisher: Grit Brokerage
contact: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/contact
offer: https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/inquiry
---

Registration and DNS

# Root zone

The root zone is the top level of the Domain Name System. It lists every top-level domain, such as .com and .org, and points to the servers that run each one.

## Why it matters

IANA manages the root zone database, which records each top-level domain and its operator. Every lookup for a domain begins at this level before moving down to the extension, then to the name. You will not edit the root zone as a buyer or seller. It matters when you judge a new extension, because a string only works if it is delegated in the root. For example, new extensions from the 2026 round must be added to the root before sales can begin. Common mistake: assuming a new extension will work everywhere right away, when email and apps may lag.

Source: [iana.org](https://www.iana.org/domains/root)

## Where we use this term

-   [Domain Trends and Predictions for 2022](https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/post/domain-trends-and-predictions-for-2022)
-   [ICANN's 2026 gTLD Round: What 1,615 Applications Mean](https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/post/icann-2026-new-gtld-round-what-it-means)

## Buying or selling a domain?

Call, text or email. Responsiveness is our trademark, and a broker answers, not a form robot.

[Talk to a broker](https://gritbrokerage.preview.multisites.ai/contact) [Call (442) 500-GRIT](tel:+1-442-500-4748)