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Continuum Doc - Domain Lifecycle Calculator

Domain Lifecycle Calculator

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Please Note:

The dates given are only indicative, as the registry reserves the right to vary the dates.

Understanding the Domain Lifecycle

The domain lifecycle refers to the various stages a domain name goes through from registration to deletion and potential re-registration. This lifecycle is managed by different entities depending on the top-level domain (TLD) in question.

Two significant authorities in the domain registration world are ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), which oversees WHOIS for generic TLDs (gTLDs) like .com, .net, and .org, and Nominet, which is responsible for managing the .uk country code TLD (ccTLD).

ICANN/WHOIS Domain Lifecycle

ICANN is a non-profit organization that plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and security of the internet by coordinating the global domain name system (DNS). The WHOIS database, managed by ICANN, is a publicly accessible repository containing information about registered domain names.

Stages in the ICANN Domain Lifecycle

  • Available: A domain name open for registration can be claimed by anyone on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Registration: Upon registration, a domain enters a period that typically lasts between 1 to 10 years. During this time, the registrant has full control over the domain and can renew it before it expires.
  • Expiration: If the domain is not renewed, it transitions through several sub-stages:
    • Renewal Grace Period (0-45 days): The domain can be renewed without incurring additional fees.
    • Redemption Grace Period (30 days): Following the renewal grace period, the domain enters a redemption period where it can still be reclaimed by the original registrant for an additional fee. When a domain enters a Redemption Grace Period there is a fee the customer needs to pay.
    • Pending Deletion (5 days): If not redeemed, the domain moves to pending deletion, during which it cannot be renewed or redeemed.
  • Deletion: After the pending deletion phase, the domain is removed from the registry database and becomes available for registration by anyone.

WHOIS Database

The WHOIS database maintains records of all registered domains, including information about the registrant, registration dates, and registrar. However, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has impacted the visibility of personal data in WHOIS records for domains registered by individuals in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Nominet Domain Lifecycle

Nominet is the proud guardian of the .UK domain name registry, protecting and connecting over 11 million .UK domain names for over 25 years, overseeing their lifecycle with a slightly different approach compared to ICANN.

Stages in the Nominet Domain Lifecycle

  • Available: A .uk domain that is not yet registered can be claimed by anyone.
  • Registration: The registration period for a .uk domain is typically 1 to 10 years. Registrants are encouraged to renew their domains before they expire to avoid service interruption.
  • Expiration: If not renewed, the domain goes through the following phases:
    • Suspended (30 days): The domain is suspended, disabling all associated services (such as websites and email). It can still be renewed during this period.
    • Cancellation (60 days): After suspension, if the domain remains unrenewed, it enters a cancellation phase, where it is scheduled for deletion.
  • Deletion: Post-cancellation, the domain is deleted and becomes available for registration by anyone.

WHOIS for Nominet

Nominet also maintains a WHOIS database for .uk domains, providing information about the registrant, registration dates, and registrar. Nominet's WHOIS service has implemented measures to comply with data protection regulations, limiting the visibility of personal data for individual registrants.

Key Differences Between ICANN and Nominet Domain Lifecycles

  • Grace Periods: ICANN’s domain lifecycle includes a 30-day redemption grace period, whereas Nominet has a 30-day suspension period followed by a 60-day cancellation phase.
  • Deletion Timing: ICANN-managed domains have a 5-day pending deletion period after the redemption grace period, while Nominet-managed domains have a combined 90-day period (suspension + cancellation) before deletion.
  • WHOIS Privacy: Both ICANN and Nominet have adapted their WHOIS services to comply with GDPR, but the specifics of data visibility and access may vary.

Understanding the domain lifecycle for ICANN/WHOIS and Nominet domains is crucial for registrants to maintain control over their domains and avoid accidental loss. While there are similarities in the lifecycle stages, the specific processes and durations differ, reflecting the policies and management approaches of ICANN and Nominet. Staying informed about these differences ensures that domain owners can effectively manage their digital assets.

By comprehending these lifecycle stages, domain owners can navigate the complexities of domain management with confidence, ensuring the continuous availability and security of their digital presence.

GTLD Domain Lifecycle

Select the expiry date for your GTLD(.com, .net, .org...) domain name on the calendar below to calculate the predicted drop dates...

ccTLD UK Domain Lifecycle

Select the expiry date for your Nominet (uk. co.uk me.uk org.uk...) domain name on the calendar below to calculate the predicted drop dates...

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