Domain names are registered for a specific period of time, usually one year or more. If the domain is not renewed before its expiration date, it will expire and go through several stages before becoming available to the public again.

This article explains what happens when a domain registration expires and what options you may have to recover it.

Domain Expiration

When a domain reaches its expiration date and is not renewed, it will enter the expired status.

During this time:

• The domain may stop resolving to your website.

• Email services associated with the domain may stop working.

• The domain may display a parking page or suspension notice.

In many cases, the domain can still be renewed during this initial period.

Grace Period

Most domain registrars provide a grace period after the expiration date.

This period typically lasts up to 30 days, although the exact length can vary depending on the domain extension and registrar.

During the grace period:

• The domain owner can still renew the domain at the standard renewal price.

• The domain remains reserved for the original owner.

• Website and email services may remain suspended until renewal.

Renewing the domain during this period usually restores normal service.

Redemption Period

If the domain is not renewed during the grace period, it may enter the redemption period.

The redemption period usually lasts about 30 days.

During this stage:

• The domain is removed from the active registry.

• The original owner may still recover the domain.

• A redemption or restoration fee is usually required in addition to the normal renewal fee.

Redemption fees are typically higher because the domain must be manually restored.

Pending Deletion

If the domain is not restored during the redemption period, it will enter the pending deletion stage.

This stage usually lasts about 5 days.

During pending deletion:

• The domain cannot be renewed or restored.

• The domain is scheduled to be permanently removed from the registry.

Once this stage completes, the domain becomes available for registration again.

Domain Becomes Available to the Public

After the pending deletion period ends, the domain is released back to the public.

At this point:

• Anyone can attempt to register the domain.

• The original owner no longer has priority to reclaim it.

If the domain is valuable or in demand, it may be registered quickly by another party.

How to Avoid Domain Expiration

To prevent your domain from expiring:

• Enable automatic domain renewal if available.

• Keep your billing information up to date.

• Make sure your account contact email address is current so you receive renewal notices.

• Renew domains before the expiration date.

Taking these steps can help avoid service interruptions.

Summary

When a domain expires, it usually passes through several stages:

1. Expiration

2. Grace Period

3. Redemption Period

4. Pending Deletion

5. Public Availability

Renewing your domain before it expires is the best way to ensure your website and email services remain active.

If your domain has expired and you need assistance renewing or restoring it, please contact our support team and include your domain name so we can help you determine the available options.