WHOIS Domain Lookup

WHOIS is a protocol for querying domain registration information. Standardized as RFC 812 in 1982, it provides domain owner, registration date, expiration date, and nameserver information. Registrars sell domains while registries manage TLDs. ICANN is the international organization overseeing the domain system. WHOIS servers use port 43, with web-based lookup tools also available. WHOIS information is used for domain dispute resolution, legal matters, and technical support. Post-GDPR, much information is redacted for privacy protection.

WHOIS privacy protection hides registrant information. Proxy services provide alternative contacts to prevent spam and theft. Most registrars offer this free or for a fee. GDPR (EU General Data Protection Regulation) requires default privacy for personal domain owners. Information disclosure is possible for legal requests or trademark disputes. Corporate domains benefit from public information enhancing credibility. Some ccTLDs (.kr, .uk, etc.) apply their own privacy policies. RDAP (Registration Data Access Protocol) is the modern standard replacing WHOIS.

WHOIS checks domain expiration dates to prepare renewals. Auto-renewal prevents domain loss. Grace Period allows renewal after expiration. Redemption Period enables recovery before deletion but incurs extra costs. Pending Delete awaits permanent deletion, after which re-registration is possible. Drop Catching services automatically capture deleting domains. Critical domains should be registered multiple years ahead for stability. Registrar transfers require unlocking.

WHOIS information helps identify phishing and malicious domains. Recently registered domains are more likely used for spam or fraud. Redacted or fake registrant information warrants suspicion. Short registration periods (1 year) may indicate malicious intent. Monitor similar domains (typosquatting) via WHOIS to protect brands. Verify if nameservers belong to known malicious hosting providers. Multiple domains under the same registrant may indicate spam networks. WHOIS history tracks domain's past owners and uses.

EPP code (Authorization Code) is the authentication key required for domain transfers. Current registrar issues the EPP code. Unlock domain and update WHOIS information. Enter EPP code when requesting transfer at new registrar. Approval request is sent to current registrant email. Transfer completes within 5-7 days after approval. Transfers are restricted within 60 days of registration and 60 days before expiration. Transfers often automatically extend by 1 year. WHOIS confirms nameserver change completion.

WHOIS lookup tools are essential for domain management and research. Verify owner and history before purchasing domains to prevent issues. Find expiring domains for acquisition attempts. Monitor competitor domains to understand strategies. Bulk WHOIS lookups manage domain portfolios. APIs enable automated monitoring systems. Reverse WHOIS finds other domains by registrant information. WHOIS history services track past change records. IP WHOIS queries IP block owners and ASN information.