How to Transfer Your Domain Name to a New Registrar: A Step-by-Step Guide Published: 17 Feb, 2023
If you're unhappy with your current domain registrar, or you're looking for a better deal on domain registration, transferring your domain name to a new registrar can be a smart move. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to transfer your domain name to a new registrar, without losing any of your website's data or functionality.
Step 1: Check Your Domain Name's Eligibility for Transfer
Before you begin the transfer process, make sure your domain name is eligible for transfer. Here are some things to consider:
- Your domain name must be at least 60 days old.
- Your domain name must not be locked by your current registrar.
- You must have access to the email address associated with your domain name's administrative contact.
- Your domain name must not have a pending dispute, hold, or legal issue.
If your domain name is eligible for transfer, you can begin the transfer process.
Step 2: Choose Your New Registrar
Next, you'll need to choose a new registrar to transfer your domain name to. Consider factors like pricing, customer service, and additional services offered by the registrar, such as domain privacy or website hosting.
Once you've chosen a new registrar, sign up for an account and begin the transfer process.
Step 3: Unlock Your Domain Name
Before you can transfer your domain name to a new registrar, you'll need to unlock it with your current registrar. Log in to your current registrar's account and navigate to the domain management page. Find the option to unlock your domain name and follow the instructions to unlock it.
Step 4: Obtain Your Authorization Code
After you've unlocked your domain name, you'll need to obtain your authorization code, also known as an EPP code. This code verifies that you have permission to transfer your domain name.
To obtain your authorization code, log in to your current registrar's account and navigate to the domain management page. Find the option to obtain your authorization code and follow the instructions to obtain it.
Step 5: Initiate the Transfer with Your New Registrar
With your domain name unlocked and your authorization code in hand, you can now initiate the transfer with your new registrar. Log in to your new registrar's account and navigate to the domain transfer page. Follow the instructions to initiate the transfer and enter your authorization code when prompted.
Step 6: Confirm the Transfer
After you've initiated the transfer, you'll need to confirm the transfer with your current registrar. They will send an email to the email address associated with your domain name's administrative contact, asking you to confirm the transfer.
Check your email and follow the instructions to confirm the transfer. This step is important to ensure that the transfer is authorized and that your domain name remains secure.
Step 7: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
After you've confirmed the transfer, it may take several days for the transfer to complete. During this time, your website and email may experience some downtime or interruption. Make sure to inform your customers, clients, and contacts that you're transferring your domain name, and give them alternative ways to contact you during the transfer.
Once the transfer is complete, your domain name will be registered with your new registrar, and you can continue to manage it from your new account.
Conclusion
Transferring your domain name to a new registrar can be a smart move if you're looking for better pricing, customer service, or additional services. By following the steps in this guide, you can transfer your domain name without losing any of your website's data or functionality. Just remember to check