How to Bring your Domain to WHC

Introduction

A domain transfer is the process of moving your domain name from one registrar to another. This allows you to change the company that manages your domain registration, DNS settings, and other domain-related services.

Before You Begin: Important Considerations

Before initiating the transfer, consider the following factors:

• Domain Lock Status: Ensure your domain is not locked, as this would prevent the transfer.
• Domain Age: Your domain must be older than 60 days, as ICANN rules prohibit transferring domains registered or transferred within the last 60 days.
• Active Contact Information: Ensure your domain’s contact information is up-to-date, particularly the email address, as you will receive important transfer notifications.
• Transfer Fee: Be aware that there is often a transfer fee, which may include a one-year extension of your domain registration.
• Back Up Your Data: Back up your website data and any associated emails before initiating the transfer.

Preparing Your Domain for Transfer

Follow these steps to prepare your domain for transfer:

1. Unlock Your Domain: Go to your current registrar’s control panel and unlock your domain.
2. Get the EPP Code: Also known as the transfer authorization code, this code is required to authorize the transfer.
3. Disable Privacy Protection: If your domain has WHOIS privacy protection enabled, disable it so WHC can access the necessary contact details.

Initiating the Transfer to WHC

1. Visit the Domain Transfer Page
2. Enter the domain name and EPP code separated by a space in the box
3. Click "Go"
4. On the next page, opt to order the ID protection/Privacy protection by checking the box, if desired
5. Click on "Checkout" and sign in to your existing account or create a new one
6. Complete the payment

Approving the Transfer

Transfers are typically completed automatically after five days, depending on the TLD type (e.g., generic top-level domains like .com, .org or .net etc.). The .ca transfers are completed instantly if the domain is unlocked and supplied with the correct EPP code.

To expedite the transfer, you may ask your current registrar to approve the transfer manually.

Post-Transfer Steps

Once your domain transfer is complete, take the following steps:

1. Update DNS Settings: Ensure your DNS settings are correctly configured to point to your hosting servers. This is crucial for your website and email to function properly.
2. Verify WHOIS Information: Check that your WHOIS information is accurate and up-to-date.
3. Check Privacy Protection: Verify if the Privacy protection is active if you ordered it with the domain transfer.
4. Review Your Website: Check that your website is functioning correctly and that all data has been transferred smoothly.