can't register available domains?
I haven't attempted this, but I remember reading somewhere (maybe cNet) that when an unused domain name expires and technically becomes available, it is nearly impossible to actually register it for quite some time, up to over a year after it actually expired. If this is true, then what's the deal with that?
I've got my eye on a domain that was registered but never used (no site). This domain registration expires in a month and if it isn't renewed I want to grab it soon after. But this seems like it may be harder to do that you'd think.
I know that just recently they've made services available to automatically grab expired names when they become available, but nobody can tell me if that's the day after it expires or if it means waiting a year anyway. Any input?
Suzanne posted this at 05:02 — 22nd February 2002.
She has: 5,507 posts
Joined: Feb 2000
Well I know a number of people who have recently had their domains snagged from them the second they expired -- SnapNames and similar services. However, there seems to be a bit of a conspiracy going on around that, as the host, the registrar and SnapNames are all owned by the same company, and the people were hosted with the host, had the domain names with the registrar and lost their domain names to SnapNames.
So how ethical it is, I don't know.
Also, there seem to be a number of casinos and porn conglomerates who are able to buy up domain names the moment they expire.
If you can't do the same, I would think that would be further evidence of behind the scenes futzing.
Check with the registrar of the domain you are interested in. They would be better able to let you know the length of time they will hold the domain in reserve.
S
mjames posted this at 15:51 — 22nd February 2002.
They have: 2,064 posts
Joined: Dec 1999
You're on target when you say some domains are not released, even when they are well past their expiration. Whether or not they are released largely depends on the registrar. If Network Solutions is in charge of the domain, you better be praying they release it. But the domain is registered with one of the OpenSRS registrars (000domains.com, Dotster, etc.), you have a much better chance.
I haven't had my domains snatched yet, as I always renew them about a month before they expire. Better safe than sorry!
fifeclub posted this at 16:13 — 22nd February 2002.
He has: 688 posts
Joined: Feb 2001
The WhoIs search lists Regiter.com as the registrar. Any insight on that one? Plus I definitely want to register the domain using a differnt company. Does that add more problems or is it a matter of 'once it's released - it's open'?
mjames posted this at 03:11 — 24th February 2002.
They have: 2,064 posts
Joined: Dec 1999
Register.com is kind of in the middle, from what I understand. It is better than NSI, but not as good at freeing domains as OpenSRS registrars.
If you want to transfer the domain away, signup with something like 000domains.com (what I use and recommend) and it'll leave Register.com in the dust.
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