Home | DNS-OARC Overview & Contact Data

The DNS Operations, Analysis, and Research Center (DNS‑OARC) is a collaborative hub that unites DNS operators, implementers, and researchers on a secure platform. By fostering open dialogue, the organization enables participants to coordinate responses to attacks, share operational data, and advance collective knowledge about the Domain Name System. DNS‑OARC’s membership includes network operators, academic researchers, and industry professionals who rely on timely, accurate information to maintain DNS stability. DNS‑OARC performs five core functions. First, it offers an information‑sharing environment where members can exchange proprietary data under strict confidentiality safeguards, allowing for bilateral analysis of DNS traffic and incidents. Second, the center conducts operational characterization studies, measuring the performance and load on root and major nameservers as Internet traffic expands. These metrics, published regularly, help the community anticipate infrastructure demands. Third, DNS‑OARC hosts semi‑annual workshops that bring together experts for presentations on current DNS challenges, fostering peer learning. Fourth, the organization supports long‑term analysis of DNS performance and post‑mortems of attacks, providing researchers with access to traces and logs for independent investigation. Finally, DNS‑OARC develops publicly available tools and services to diagnose and address emerging DNS vulnerabilities, ensuring that members have practical resources to mitigate risks. The organization’s flagship event, the OARC conference, gathers the DNS community for two‑day sessions of talks, technical workshops, and networking opportunities. Recent meetings in Stockholm, Prague, and Edinburgh have highlighted new research, operational insights, and collaborative projects. Upcoming gatherings, such as OARC 46 in Edinburgh (February 2026) and OARC 45 in Stockholm (October 2025), continue to draw participants from across the globe, underscoring DNS‑OARC’s role as a central forum for DNS research and practice. By combining rigorous data analysis, secure information exchange, and community‑driven events, DNS‑OARC remains a pivotal resource for anyone involved in DNS operations, research, or policy. Its trusted platform and comprehensive suite of services make it an essential partner for maintaining the resilience and reliability of the Internet’s naming infrastructure.