The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority is responsible for coordinating some of the key elements that keep the internet running smoothly.

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority is a department of [ICANN](http://www.crunchbase.com/organization/icann) responsible for coordinating some of the key elements that keep the internet running smoothly. Whilst the internet is renowned for being a worldwide network free from central coordination, there is a technical need for some key parts of the internet to be globally coordinated. This coordination role is undertaken by The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority allocates and maintains unique codes and numbering systems that are used in the technical standards (protocols) that drive the internet. The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.