On September 12, 2024, Guatemala became the center of the conversation about the future of the Internet in Latin America and the Caribbean, thanks to the ICANN LAC Roadshow. This event, which brought together experts in technology and cybersecurity, provided a clear vision of the challenges and opportunities facing digital networks in the region.

What is ICANN?

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a global nonprofit organization that plays a key role in the functioning of the Internet. Its primary responsibility is the administration of the Domain Name System (DNS), ensuring that every website has a unique address and enabling us to navigate the web quickly and securely. 

ICANN does not directly manage Internet content, but it facilitates network usage by coordinating the DNS, a critical system for the efficient operation of the web. Without ICANN, navigating the Internet would be chaotic and confusing, as users would struggle to access specific websites.

What is a Roadshow?

A roadshow is a traveling event organized in various cities within a region or around the world. In this case, the LAC Roadshow focuses on Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming to share key information about the state of Internet security, domain governance, and the impact of new technologies. It is an invaluable opportunity for experts, professionals, and decision-makers to meet and discuss solutions to the digital challenges facing the region.

The Importance of the LAC Roadshow in Guatemala

The LAC Roadshow, held at the Westin Camino Real Hotel in Guatemala City, underscored the significance of technology and security in the region. The coordination and presence of the Superintendency of Telecommunications (SIT) were also crucial at this event. Throughout the day, essential topics were addressed, such as the expansion of generic top-level domains (gTLDs) and strategies to combat DNS abuse, a growing issue in cybersecurity.

One of the event’s highlights was the presentation by Rodrigo de la Parra, ICANN’s Vice President of Relations for Latin America and the Caribbean, who introduced the new round of gTLDs program. This program opens the door to new opportunities for companies and organizations in the region, allowing for the creation of more personalized and specific domains.

Additionally, Nicolas Antoniello, ICANN’s Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean, delivered a conference on DNS abuse, highlighting the importance of developing strategies to protect users from online threats.

Final Thoughts

The LAC Roadshow in Guatemala was more than just a technology event. It was a call to action for all those involved in the region’s digital ecosystem. As the Internet continues to evolve, events like this remind us that security and digital governance are crucial to ensuring a stable and secure online future.

If you want more information on registering a .gt domain or learning about ICANN’s policies, we invite you to visit our website and stay informed about future events.