The Internet Engineering Steering Group (IESG) is the body that manages the Internet Engineering Task Force’s (IETF’s) technical activities and administers its Internet standards process. It oversees key decisions as work progresses through the IETF, while technical proposals are developed by the wider community and its working groups.
What does IESG stand for?
IESG stands for Internet Engineering Steering Group. It is part of the IETF, the community that develops Internet standards and related technical specifications.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What does the IESG do?
The IESG manages IETF technical activities and applies the procedures that govern the Internet standards process. As documents move through the IETF Stream, it makes important process decisions, including approving the creation of working groups, considering their rechartering, and giving final approval to documents. The IETF describes this remit in its official IESG overview; RFC 9281 explains the IESG’s role in document progression.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe IESG is not simply a committee that writes standards. Working groups and the broader IETF community develop technical proposals; the IESG oversees the process and reviews or approves work under the applicable procedures. Its responsibilities also include coordinating work across groups and monitoring progress, as described in the IESG charter in RFC 3710. That charter dates to 2004, so current process descriptions are best understood alongside RFC 9281 and the IETF’s current overview.
#1 Best Overall
Who makes up the IESG?
RFC 9281 says the IESG is composed of the Area Directors and the IETF Chair. The IETF Chair also chairs the IESG and serves as General Area Director. The IAB Chair participates as an ex officio member. IESG members are nominated by the IETF Nominations Committee (NomCom) and confirmed by the Internet Architecture Board (IAB). The IETF overview says Area Directors are appointed for two-year terms. Membership and role holders can change over time.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How is the IESG different from IETF working groups and the IAB?
- Working groups develop technical work within the IETF.
- IESG manages IETF technical activities and administers the procedures for standards work, including reviewing and approving work at relevant stages.
- IAB has a distinct role in the IETF ecosystem; for example, it confirms IESG nominees.
For a broader, older introduction to the IESG’s oversight role, see the IETF’s RFC 3160 novice guide.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Rank #2
- New
- Mint Condition
- Dispatch same day for order received before 12 noon
- Guaranteed packaging
- No quibbles returns
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.




