CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA) Practice

What is the role of IANA in networking?

1. Managing domain names

2. Assigning public IP addresses

3. Overseeing internet standards

4. Distributing software updates

The correct answer is: Assigning public IP addresses

The role of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) in networking primarily involves assigning public IP addresses. IANA is responsible for the global coordination of the DNS Root, IP addressing, and other Internet protocol resources. This organization manages the allocation of IP address space for various entities, ensuring that each device connected to the Internet has a unique address through the assignment of public IP addresses. This function is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the Internet and preventing address conflicts, which can lead to connectivity issues. IANA also plays a part in the coordination of autonomous system numbers (ASNs) and other registry-related duties necessary for effective internetworking. While managing domain names, overseeing internet standards, and distributing software updates are essential for the broader functioning of the Internet, these responsibilities fall under the purview of other organizations or entities, such as the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) for domain names and various standard-setting organizations for internet protocols.