What Is Registrar lock? Domain Glossary

Why it matters

Registrar lock is the standard safety switch on a domain. Sellers must unlock it before a buyer's registrar can pull the domain. Leave it on until the sale is ready to close, then unlock it and release the auth code. A common mistake is forgetting this step and stalling a sale for days. Do not confuse it with registry lock, a stronger, manual service from the registry that costs extra.

Source: icann.org

Where we use this term

Related terms

EPP status codes (EPP): EPP status codes are labels set on a domain by its registrar or registry. They show whether the domain can be transferred, changed, renewed, or deleted, and they are visible in lookups.
Registry lock: A premium security service that places a lock at the registry, not just the registrar. Any change to the domain, such as a transfer or nameserver edit, needs a manual check outside the normal account login.
Auth code (TAC): A secret code from the current registrar that proves you may move a domain to another registrar. ICANN's updated policy calls it a Transfer Authorization Code (TAC). Other names are EPP code and transfer key.
Inter-registrar transfer: An inter-registrar transfer moves a domain from one ICANN-accredited registrar to another. The new registrar asks for an authorization code, and the registry completes the move once both sides approve.
Domain theft: Domain theft, also called domain hijacking, is taking control of a domain without the owner's permission. Thieves often steal registrar account logins or trick the registrar into a transfer.

All 205 terms

Why it matters

Where we use this term

Buying or selling a domain?