The internet's main governance body
ICANN has appointed former US national
cybersecurity centre director Rod Beckstrom as chief executive and
president.
Analysts said the move reflects the growing importance of
security as a primary concern at Icann, which is the main
internet governance body.
"He has exactly the sort of strong technical background ICANN
needs, as we enter a period of unprecedented growth and change for
the internet," said chairman Peter Dengate Thrush.
The appointment has been praised by internet leaders, including
computer scientist
Vint Cerf and Google chief executive Eric Schmidt.
Cerf, considered by many to be the father of the internet, said
Beckstrom was well prepared for the role.
"His experience in industry and government equip him well for
this global and very challenging job," Cerf said.
Schmidt said Beckstrom's technical and commercial expertise is
world class.
"I can think of no one better positioned to lead ICANN's
critical mission as the internet's role in society continues to
increase in scope and importance," he said.
The announcement of Beckstrom's appointment was made at ICANN's
35th international meeting in Sydney, Australia.
"The importance of the internet as a free-flowing source of
information is being underscored by events in Iran," said
Beckstrom. "It shows the power of human expression through a free
and open Net."