So, you’re fed up with your current registrar? You’ve come to realise that their terms and pricing are way out of order and that you can get a much better deal with a more reputable company. Good for you! In the often-convoluted world of Internet subscriptions it’s important to secure the best terms and pricing wherever possible.
So, what is domain name transfer and why are you making the right decision to do it?
Let’s find out below:
What is domain name transfer?
When it comes to domain name registration, you can move your web address from its current host to another and likely for one or more of the following reasons:
- Cost: This is the most common reason business owners transfer their extensions. Registrars base their pricing on the products and services they offer and you may have found a better package elsewhere. What’s more, you may not be happy with the service you are currently receiving for the price you are paying.
- Management: It shouldn’t be difficult to manage your web address. Therefore, if your host is making things difficult, you will likely want to jump ship to one that offers the features you need to simplify management.
- Ownership change: If you sold your current domain name or bought one from someone else then it may need a new host.
- Better support: Your current host may only provide limited customer support. In reality, your host should provide 24/7 support so that you can always be in control of your web address.
What you need to complete the transfer
Completing a successful extension transfer is actually super easy, especially if your new host provides you with a simple solution to do it in minutes!
You just need the following:
- A valid extension that is pre-registered with another host.
- The extension must be unlocked and already registered for a minimum of 60 days.
- It must have updated web address registrant information and admin contact.
- Your current registrar has provided you with your transfer authorisation (EPP code).
Your website will remain functional during transfer
Many business owners worry about their website malfunctioning throughout transfer – please don’t! You’re simply transferring the extension to another registrar and this has nothing to do with transferring your pre-existing hosting. Changing web hosts can cause downtime but there are steps that can be taken to avoid it, including:
- Importing all domain name system (DNS) records to your new host (which could also be your web address registrar);
- Ensuring all of your DNS information is accurate;
- Changing the originating registrar’s nameservers (this could take a day or two).
One other situation to consider is whether or not you use your current registrar’s default nameservers. Many registrars provide free access to nameservers given your web addresses are registered with them. You will likely lose access to those nameservers if you transfer your web address.
Note: to find out whether you are using default nameservers you can simply ask the registrar before transferring your extension.
So, transferring your current web address to another provider can likely provide cost savings whilst making management that much easier. It’s likely one or both of these reasons that you are considering it so it can be an incredibly valuable move.
Be sure to look out for a reputable company that can provide a free, simple solution for transferring your web address to their system. This shows that they take their work seriously and have created solutions to simplify things for you!
