Domain lifecycle – everything you need to know!

A domain name is not just the address of your website – it’s also an asset with a specific lifecycle. Whether you run a business, a blog, or an online store, it’s important to understand how a domain works and what steps you need to take to avoid losing it.

In this article, we will discuss all the stages of a domain’s life – from registration, through the active period, to expiration and eventual deletion.

What is the Domain Lifecycle?

The domain lifecycle is a process that includes all the stages a domain name goes through, from the moment it is registered to its eventual expiration or deletion. It typically consists of several phases, such as registration, activity, renewal, expiration, and a subsequent transition period when the domain becomes available for recovery or re-registration by other users. Understanding the domain lifecycle is crucial for its owners, as it helps in monitoring the domain's status and making decisions regarding its renewal or re-registration.

Domain registration

Domain registration is the first step in the lifecycle, where the domain is purchased by the owner. This process takes place through a domain registrar, who grants the rights to use the domain for a specified period (usually from 1 to 10 years). The domain becomes fully active once the registration is completed and confirmed by the relevant registration authorities. During this stage, the owner can choose a domain name that is unique and unavailable in the given domain zone.

Domain pricing >

Transfer domain to MGHost >

Active period

After the domain is registered, the active period begins, during which the owner can use the domain for various purposes – from creating websites to setting up email accounts. In this phase, the domain is fully assigned to the owner, who has complete control over its settings. Regular renewal of registration ensures the domain remains active in this phase.

Domain renewal

To avoid losing a domain, owners must renew it before the expiration date. Renewal is typically available through the registrar, allowing the owner to extend the agreement for additional years. Ignoring this step can result in the domain expiring and being lost to other users.

Expiration period (Grace Period)

When a domain is not renewed on time, it enters the expiration phase. At this point, the owner loses control over the domain, and its functionalities, such as the website or email addresses, stop working. The expiration period usually lasts from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the registrar's policy.

Redemption period

After the domain expires, the registrar often offers the option to recover it within the so-called Redemption Period. The owner can still reclaim the domain, but this usually comes with additional fees. This is the last opportunity to restore the domain before it is permanently deleted and made available for registration by other users.

Deletion and re-registration

If the domain is not reclaimed during the redemption period, it enters the deletion phase and becomes available for registration by new owners. During this phase, the domain is removed from the registration systems and can be re-registered if it is still available. A domain that was previously popular or had significant value may be immediately captured by other users.

How does the life cycle of different domain extensions work?

The life cycle of a domain can vary slightly depending on its extension. Domains like .pl, .com, and .eu have their own specific rules for registration, renewal, and expiration that are important to know.

.pl domain

Domains with the .pl extension are managed by NASK (Scientific and Academic Computer Network), which regulates all issues related to their registration and renewal. The life cycle of a .pl domain is similar to other domains, but with the following specifics:

• Registration takes place for a period of 1 to 10 years.
• The .pl domain can be renewed at any time before its expiration.
• After expiration, the user typically has 30 days to recover the domain. A reactivation fee is required starting from the first day of quarantine (at MGHost, the fee for recovering an expired domain is 15 PLN net).
• If the domain is not recovered within this time, it enters the deletion phase and can be re-registered by other users 31 days after expiration.

.com domain

The .com domain is one of the most popular global extensions, managed by the ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers). The life cycle of a .com domain proceeds as follows:

• Registration of a .com domain takes place for a period of 1 to 10 years.
• Renewal is available in the same way as other domains, with an option for automatic renewal.
• After expiration, the .com domain goes through three stages of expiration: Grace Period (1-35 days) – During this period, the owner can reactivate the domain, but a reactivation fee is required starting from the first day after expiration. Redemption Period (36-75 days) – After the Grace Period ends, the domain enters a quarantine period, during which it can still be renewed, but additional fees apply. Pending Delete (76-80 days) – During this phase, the domain is awaiting deletion and will become available for registration by new owners.
• After passing through these stages, the domain becomes inactive and returns to the pool of available names, where it can be re-registered by other users.

.eu domain

The .eu domain is intended for individuals and businesses within the European Union and is managed by EURid. The life cycle of a .eu domain proceeds as follows:

• Registration of a .eu domain occurs for a period of 1 to 10 years.
• Renewal is available through the registrar and can be done for any length of time.
• If the .eu domain expires, the owner has 40 days to recover it.
• If the domain is not recovered, it enters the deletion phase and becomes available for re-registration by other users 41 days after expiration.

How to avoid losing your domain

Avoiding the loss of your domain is crucial to maintaining full control over your website and emails. Here are some effective ways to protect it:

Regular domain renewal

The most important step in preventing domain loss is timely renewal. Set up reminders or take advantage of the automatic renewal option if available through your registrar. This ensures that your domain won’t accidentally expire.

Keep your contact email updated

Make sure that your contact details, especially the email address associated with your registration account, are always up-to-date. Domain expiration notices, invoices, and other important information will be sent to this address, so it’s crucial to have access to the mailbox linked to your account.

Register your domain for a longer period

Instead of renewing your domain yearly, consider registering it for a longer period (e.g., 5-10 years). This way, you ensure that the domain won’t expire in the near future and reduce the risk of forgetting to renew it.

Secure your registration account

Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your registration account. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized individuals gaining control over your domain.

Domain lifecycle - summary

Understanding the domain lifecycle is key to effective management and avoiding unpleasant surprises. Regular renewals, keeping your details current, and monitoring your domain’s status allow you to maintain control over its functionality. If you care about the stability of your brand online, make sure you don’t let your domain expire!

Do you have any questions about domains? Contact us – we’re happy to help!