Domain Lifecycle

The Domain Lifecycle defines the statuses a domain name traverses from its creation to its deletion. Understanding these phases is critical to prevent unintentional loss of a domain.

The Generic Life Cycle

For most Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) regulated by ICANN, the cycle follows this path:

1. Available: The domain is open for registration.
2. Registered (Active): The domain is owned and functional. It can be updated, transferred, or renewed (typically 1–10 years).
3. Auto-Renew Grace Period: (0–45 days) The domain expires. The owner can usually renew it at the standard rate. The domain may stop resolving (ServerHold).
4. Redemption Grace Period: (30 days) The domain is deleted from the registrar but held by the registry. Recovery is possible but requires a higher restoration fee.
5. Pending Delete: (5 days) The domain is scheduled for permanent deletion. It cannot be recovered or renewed.
6. Released: The domain becomes Available again for public registration.

Domain name An explanation of what a domain name is and its structure.

Special Cases of some ccTLDs

Country Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs) operate under local regulations, leading to diverse lifecycles:

• No Grace Periods: Some ccTLDs enter “Pending Delete” immediately upon expiration.
• Pre-Expiration Renewal: Some registries require renewal fees to be paid weeks before the actual expiration date.
• Manual Processes: Restoration in some ccTLDs may require manual intervention and paperwork.

Top Level Domain An overview of Top-Level Domains (TLDs) and their classification (gTLD, ccTLD, etc.).

See also

• Life Cycle of a Typical gTLD Domain Name on the ICANN website