WHOIS Domain Lookup
Get domain registration details, registrar, and expiry info.
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WHOIS Domain Intelligence
Query domain registration records including registrar, creation date, expiry, and nameserver configurations.
01 / How it works
Understanding WHOIS Registration Records
This WHOIS query details the domain's ownership record. The registrar lists expiration and update parameters. Privacy protection hides contact details, which is standard practice to prevent spam harvests.
The Developer Guide to WHOIS Protocols and Domain Ownership
What is WHOIS?
WHOIS is a query-response protocol used to search databases containing registered domain names, registrar contacts, nameservers, and registry status values.
Registry Status Codes (EPP Codes)
WHOIS records list status flags defined by the Extensible Provisioning Protocol (EPP): * clientTransferProhibited: Prevents unauthorized domain transfer attempts. * clientDeleteProhibited: Prevents accidental domain deletion. * redemptionPeriod: The domain has expired and is held for a grace period before deletion.
Domain Lifecycle Stages
- Active: The domain is active and resolves correctly.
- Expired: If unpaid, resolution ceases. The owner can still renew it without penalties.
- Redemption: Held by the registry for 30 days. Renewal requires a high recovery fee.
- Pending Delete: Held for 5 days, after which it is released back to the public for purchase.
02 / FAQ
Questions, answered.
What is WHOIS privacy protection?
WHOIS privacy masks personal contact info (email, address, phone) with generic registrar details to prevent spam harvesting.
Can I find out who owns a domain if privacy is on?
Directly, no. However, you can contact the anonymous forwarding email provided in the registrar details.
What is an EPP authorization code?
An EPP code is a unique transfer key generated by the registrar to validate domain migration to a new platform.
Why does my domain status say clientTransferProhibited?
This is a standard security lock applied by registrars to prevent unauthorized hijacking or transfer attempts.
What happens during the redemption period?
If a domain is not renewed during expiration, it enters redemption. The owner can reclaim it, but registrars charge a recovery fee.
How often are WHOIS databases updated?
Most registries update records within minutes, but global WHOIS databases can take up to 24 hours to sync changes.
What is ICANN?
ICANN is the global non-profit organization that coordinates domain namespace registrations and IP allocations.
How do I transfer my domain name to another registrar?
Unlock the domain at your current registrar, request the EPP authorization code, and submit it at the target platform.
04 / Guides
Read next.
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