You’re not the only person who has ever wondered how to change the domain name of your website from one registrar to another. In order to benefit from cheaper pricing, centralize management, or just acquire access to enhanced services, many website owners eventually find themselves in a position where they must move their domains. This post provides a detailed How to Transfer a Domain guide that aims to make the procedure easy, stress-free, and transparent.
Although it may seem complicated, anyone may transfer a domain if they are given the proper instructions. Your domain will be safely transferred to a new provider with no downtime or needless effort if you follow a few simple procedures.
What Makes a Domain Transfer Beneficial?
It’s useful to know why people move domains in the first place before beginning the real procedure. Typical explanations include:
- Reduced prices at an alternative registrar
- Improved customer service
- Availability of resources such as security features or website builders
- Want to oversee several domains from one location?
Whatever your reason, this How to Transfer a Domain tutorial will help you understand every step of the process.
Step 1: Check Transfer Eligibility
Not all domains are transferable right away. A few prerequisites must be met by registrars and domain authorities:
- The domain needs to be 60 days or older.
- Within the last sixty days, the domain must not have been moved.
- The current registrar cannot lock the domain.
If your domain satisfies these requirements, you can proceed.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain
The majority of registrars “freeze” domains automatically to stop illegal transfers. Go to the dashboard of your present registrar and select the “unlock the domain” option to start the procedure. Usually, this falls under the “Security” or “Domain Management” sections.
Step 3: Obtain the Authorization Code
Similar to a password, the authorization code (also referred to as an EPP or transfer code) verifies that you are the domain’s owner. You must ask your present registrar for this. You will need it for the transfer process, so once you receive it, keep it safe.
Step 4: Start the Transfer with Your New Registrar
The domain needs to be moved now. Find the “Transfer Domain” option on the website of your new registrar, then type in your domain name. The authorization code will be asked for from you. This is the most important step in the How to Transfer a Domain guide; after you finish it, the transfer can start.
Step 5: Approve the Transfer
You can receive confirmation emails from both your previous and current registrars requesting that you confirm the transfer. Make sure to swiftly approve everything after checking your inbox and spam drawer. The process could be delayed if these messages are ignored.
Step 6: Wait for Completion
Transferring a domain takes time. It may take a few hours or many days, depending on the registrars involved. Your email (if connected to the domain) and website should continue to operate regularly during this period. After the transfer is finished, your new registrar will send you a confirmation email and take control of your domain.
Step 7: Verify and Update Settings
Lastly, make sure the domain is operational by logging into the dashboard of your new registrar. To make sure everything is operating as it should, double-check email records, DNS settings, and any other adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much time does it take to transfer a domain?
Typically one to seven days, based on the registrars.
- Will the move cause my website to go offline?
No, your website should continue to function normally as long as your DNS settings stay the same.
- Is it possible to move any domain extension?
The majority of domains are transferable, but certain country-specific extensions might have unique regulations.
- What is the price of transferring a domain?
The majority of registrars charge a transfer fee, which usually includes a one-year domain renewal. Prices vary, though.
- What occurs if my authorization code is lost?
You can always ask the support staff at your existing registrar for a new one.
