The internet is actually controlled by 14 people who hold 7 secret keys | IFLScience

http://www.iflscience.com/technology/the-internet-is-actually-controlled-by-14-people-who-hold-7-secret-keys/

This sounds like something out of a Dan Brown book, but it isn’t: The whole internet is controlled by seven actual, physical keys.

ICANN maps the numbers (easier for computers to use) with words (easier for humans to use).

If someone were to gain control of ICANN’s database, that person would control the internet. 

The physical keys unlock safe deposit boxes stashed around the world. Inside those boxes are smart key cards. Put the seven smartcards together and you have the “master key.”

Four times a year since 2010 the seven key holders meet for the key ceremony where they generate a new master key, i.e. a new password.