Verisign files patent apps for using DNS for Internet of Things (IoT) devices

Verisign wants to patent a couple ways to use the DNS for the internet of things.

Verisign, the domain name registry that operates the .com top level domain name, has filed two patent applications for applying DNS to internet-connected devices, i.e. internet of things (IoT).

The two applications were filed in January 2015.

Before discussing the patents, a little background is worthwhile.

We have about 40 connected devices in our house, including connected lightbulbs, thermostats, speakers, security cameras, electrical outlets, window shades and the Amazon Echo.

Right now these are all connected via various wireless protocols and I control them with apps on my iPhone. Some also communicate with each other.

A number of domain name companies have tried to figure out how to bring DNS and domain names into the mix, as this would obviously be a huge growth opportunity. I haven’t been able to lay a finger on exactly how DNS will play a role, and I certainly don’t think each of these devices needs its own second level domain name.

(If you are interested in the internet of things, subscribe to the Stacey Knows Things newsletter or listen to the IoT podcast.)

OK, on to the patent applications.

Application 14/595178 is for Systems and methods for establishing ownership and delegation of IoT devices using domain name system services and 14/593919 is for systems and Methods for registering, managing, and communicating with IoT devices using domain name system processes.

Both describe using various components of DNS to manage IoT devices. This can include registering and assigning a domain name to them, to connecting a number of IoT devices under a second level domain and then applying various records, such as TLSA, to them.

Resources: domainnamewire.com

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