Glossary
Domain Name Registration Service Provider
An official intermediary (registrar) that allocates and manages internet domain names, subject to strict NIS 2 obligations.
A domain name registration service provider (referred to in the French transposition as FSEND) is an entity acting as an official intermediary (a registrar) to allocate and manage internet domain names (e.g. .fr, .com) for end users or national registries. NIS 2 imposes strict accuracy and verification obligations for contact data (WHOIS) to fight cybercrime.
Role and examples
- Registrars: OVH, Gandi, Namecheap — sell domain names to individuals and businesses.
- Top-level domain (TLD) registries: AFNIC (manager of
.fr), Verisign (.com,.net) — manage the authoritative domain databases.
Specific obligations under NIS 2
Under Article 28 of the directive, domain name registration providers have a legal obligation to:
- Collect and verify registration data (name, address, technical contact) of domain holders.
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date WHOIS databases.
- Respond to legitimate requests for access to WHOIS data from competent authorities within strict deadlines (72 hours).
Cross-border regime
Regardless of size, domain name registration providers fall under NIS 2's cross-border regime and are supervised by the authority of the EU member state where their main establishment is located.