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How to transfer domain from one registrar to another?

Nov 23 • 2 min read

Knowledge Base > Migration > How to transfer domain from one registrar to another?

Transferring Your Domain: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring a domain from one registrar to another is a common process, often driven by factors like better pricing, enhanced services, or improved customer support. If you’re considering transferring your domain, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

1. Prepare Your Domain for Transfer:

  • Unlock Your Domain: Before initiating the transfer, ensure that your domain is unlocked. Log in to your current registrar’s account and navigate to the domain settings. If there’s an option to lock or unlock the domain, make sure it’s unlocked.
  • Retrieve Authorization Code: Obtain the Authorization Code (also known as EPP code or transfer code). This code is a security measure that verifies you have the authority to transfer the domain. Most registrars provide an option to request the code within their domain management interface.

2. Choose a New Registrar:

  • Research Potential Registrars: Identify a new registrar that suits your needs. Consider factors such as pricing, domain management tools, customer support, and any additional services they may offer.
  • Create an Account: If you don’t already have an account with the new registrar, create one. This account will be used to manage your domain after the transfer.

3. Initiate the Transfer:

  • Start Transfer Process: In your new registrar’s account, look for an option like “Transfer Domain” or “Register Domain.” Enter the domain name you want to transfer and follow the prompts to initiate the transfer.
  • Provide Authorization Code: During the transfer process, you’ll be prompted to enter the Authorization Code you obtained from your current registrar. This step is crucial for confirming your ownership of the domain.

4. Verify Transfer Request:

  • Check Email Confirmation: After initiating the transfer, both your old and new registrars will send confirmation emails. Check your email inbox and follow the instructions in these emails to confirm the transfer. Some registrars may provide a link to approve the transfer directly.

5. Wait for Transfer Approval:

  • Domain Transfer Approval: Once you’ve confirmed the transfer, the request will be submitted for approval. The current registrar will release the domain, and the new registrar will take control. This process usually takes a few days, but the exact duration can vary between registrars.

6. Update Domain Settings:

  • Configure DNS Settings: After the transfer is completed, log in to your new registrar’s account to configure your domain settings. This includes updating DNS records, setting up email forwarding, and managing any additional services offered by the new registrar.

7. Verify Successful Transfer:

  • Check WHOIS Information: Use a WHOIS lookup tool to check the status of your domain. Once the transfer is complete, the WHOIS information should reflect the new registrar’s details.
  • Test Website and Email: Verify that your website and email services are functioning correctly. Sometimes, minor adjustments may be needed in your hosting or email settings.

8. Renew Domain (Optional):

  • Renew Domain Registration: Some registrars automatically renew your domain registration upon transfer, while others may require manual renewal. Check the expiration date in your new registrar’s account and renew if necessary.

Conclusion:

Transferring a domain involves a series of steps, and attention to detail is crucial to ensure a seamless transition. By following this guide, you can confidently transfer your domain from one registrar to another, enjoying the benefits of your chosen registrar’s services. Keep in mind that while the process is generally straightforward, the exact steps may vary slightly depending on the registrars involved. Always refer to the specific instructions provided by your current and new registrars during the transfer process.

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Common Questions

  • Why would I want to transfer my domain to a different registrar?

    There are several reasons to transfer your domain to a different registrar. Common reasons include seeking better pricing, improved customer support, additional services, or consolidating all your domains under one registrar for easier management. Transferring allows you to align your domain management with your specific needs and preferences.

  • How long does it take to transfer a domain to a new registrar?

    The domain transfer process typically takes around 5 to 7 days, but the exact duration can vary between registrars. Factors such as the responsiveness of the current registrar, the time taken for you to confirm the transfer, and the policies of the new registrar all contribute to the overall duration. During this period, your website and email services may experience minimal downtime.

  • Can I transfer my domain if it's about to expire?

    It’s advisable to initiate a domain transfer well before its expiration date. Most registrars have specific rules regarding domain transfers close to the expiration date. If a domain is already expired, you may need to renew it with the current registrar before initiating the transfer. Always check the policies of both registrars involved for the most accurate information.

  • What is an Authorization Code, and why do I need it for a domain transfer?

    An Authorization Code, also known as an EPP code or transfer code, is a security code associated with your domain. It acts as a verification method, ensuring that only the legitimate owner can initiate a domain transfer. You’ll need to obtain this code from your current registrar and provide it to the new registrar during the transfer process.

  • Can I transfer my domain if it is currently locked?

    No, you cannot transfer a domain if it is locked. Registrars often provide a security lock feature to prevent unauthorized transfers. Before initiating a domain transfer, log in to your current registrar’s account and unlock the domain. This option is usually found in the domain management settings.

  • Will my website experience downtime during the domain transfer process?

    While domain transfers are designed to minimize downtime, there may be a brief period during the actual transfer when your website and email services could experience interruptions. To mitigate this, choose a time for the transfer when your website has lower traffic, and inform your audience in advance if possible. Once the transfer is complete, your website should resume normal operation on the new registrar’s platform.

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