Unlocking the Secrets of Domain Name Ownership Transfer: Your Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring domain name ownership involves transferring the rights of your domain to another registrant, also known as a Change of Registrant (CoR).

In December 2016, ICANN implemented several amendments to its Transfer Policy. While previously regulating inter-registrar transfers for general top-level domains (gTLDs), the updated policy now establishes new requirements for domain name transfers between registrants. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the steps to transfer your domain name ownership to another person, ensuring compliance with the latest policy guidelines.

What do I need to transfer a domain name?

To ensure a successful domain name transfer, you must fulfill the following four essential criteria:

1. Validity and Registration: The domain(s) in question must be valid and currently registered with another registrar, distinct from the one you intend to transfer to.
2. Registration Period and Status: The domain(s) must have been registered for a minimum period of 60 days and be in an unlocked status, allowing for transfer operations.
3. Updated Contact Information: The administrative contact and domain registrant information must be up-to-date and accurate, reflecting the current owner’s details.
4. Transfer Authorization Code: You must possess the transfer authorization code, also known as the EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) code, provided by the registrar you are transferring away from.

By ensuring compliance with these four critical criteria, you can facilitate a smooth and seamless domain name transfer process, adhering to industry best practices and safeguarding the integrity of the transfer.

Will the website go down during a domain name transfer?

No, the website won’t go down during the domain name transfer.

When you transfer a domain name from one registrar to another, you are only transferring the registration of the domain itself. The process does not involve moving your email, hosting, or website files. During the domain transfer, your nameservers will remain pointed to the same pre-transfer nameservers.

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However, if you decide to change your hosting provider along with your domain registrar, additional steps are required to avoid site downtime:

1. Import your DNS records to your new hosting provider (which may also be your new registrar).
2. Double-check to ensure the DNS information is correct.
3. Change the nameservers at the originating registrar to point to your new hosting provider’s nameservers.
4. Be prepared to wait for DNS propagation, which could take 24-48 hours.

Consider another scenario: if you’re using the default nameservers provided by your current (pre-transfer) registrar, it’s important. Many registrars offer access to free nameservers as long as your domain remains registered with them. If you decide to transfer your domain name, you could lose access to those nameservers.

If you’re unsure whether you’re using default nameservers, it’s crucial to ask your registrar BEFORE transferring your domain. The recommended practice is to keep your domain pointed to your hosting provider’s nameservers to ensure continuity of service.

Step By Step Process To Transfer Your Domain

• Unlock Your domain you want to transfer from your current registrar to another registrar.
• Search for your domain using the CloudMinister transfer tool.
• Enter your authorization code to confirm the transfer.
• Most domain transfers are complete in 5-7 days.

Conclusion

There are a few potential causes that can lead to a domain transfer failing. If you have followed the proper preparation steps, you have likely eliminated most of these possibilities. However, understanding the information below will help clarify the importance of each step:

1. Domain Age: If the domain is less than 60 days old or has been transferred within the last 60 days, it is not eligible for transfer. Per ICANN regulations, a newly registered domain or one that has been transferred from one registrar to another within the previous 60 days cannot be transferred again during that period.
2. Domain Lock or Hold Status: Most domains have a registrar lock in place for added security. It is recommended to leave these locks in place unless you are intentionally transferring the domain from one registrar to another. You should have access to remove these locks directly within your account at your current registrar. If not, you will need to contact their support department for assistance. Additionally, if the domain has a hold status in place, it will be reflected in the domain’s WHOIS lookup status. These holds are typically implemented at either the registry or registrar level, and you will need direct access to remove them yourself. In such cases, you must contact the current registrar for assistance in removing the hold.

Understanding these potential issues and taking the necessary precautions can increase the likelihood of a successful and smooth domain transfer process. Further, we are available 24/7 support via Cloudminister to help you through a smooth domain transfer via our live chat or email support.