What’s the Difference Between Registry Transfer And Registrar Transfer?

 

When it comes to managing your domain transfer, there are two key terms that may confuse users: Registry Transfer and Registrar Transfer. While both involve moving a domain, they are fundamentally different processes, and understanding these differences can help you avoid unnecessary support inquiries and potential issues with your domain management.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between a Registry Transfer and a Registrar Transfer, explain when and why each one happens, and provide you with the information you need to manage your domain effectively. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of these processes, reducing confusion and ensuring your domain management runs smoothly.

What Are the Registry and Registrar?

Before we clarify the differences between the two types of transfers, let's first clarify the roles of registries and registrars in the domain system.

• Registry: A registry is the organization responsible for managing a specific top-level domain (TLD) like .com, .net, or .org. They oversee the technical infrastructure and policies governing that TLD. For example, VeriSign manages the .com and .net TLDs.
  
• Registrar: A registrar is the company through which you register your domain. They act as an intermediary between you (the domain owner) and the registry. They provide services for domain registration, management, renewal, and more.

Many users think that changing registrars (the company managing your domain) or changing registries is the same thing, but they are not. In fact, most of the time, users will only encounter registrar transfers, not registry transfers. The processes are very different, and each one has a distinct impact on your domain.

Registrar Transfer: The Common Transfer Process

A Registrar Transfer is the more common type of domain transfer. It happens when you move your domain from one registrar to another. Whether you're switching to a provider with better customer service, more affordable pricing, or additional features, registrar transfers are a simple way to manage your domain.

Steps Involved in a Registrar Transfer:

1. Unlock the Domain: Your domain must be unlocked (ClientTransferProhibited) in order to transfer it to another registrar.

2. Obtain the Authorization Code (EPP Code): This code is required to authorize the transfer and ensure that you’re the rightful owner of the domain.

3. Initiate the Transfer: Start the transfer process with your new registrar by providing the EPP code.

4. Confirm the Transfer: You'll receive an email from the new registrar to confirm the transfer.

User FAQ:

Q: Will transferring my domain affect my website or email?

No, transferring your domain only changes the company managing it. Your website and email services will continue to work as usual unless you decide to change your hosting provider or DNS settings during the transfer.

Q: How long does it take for a registrar transfer to complete?

Typically, a registrar transfer can take 5-7 days. However, this can vary depending on the registrar and any necessary security checks.

Registry Transfer: A Rare, Registry-Initiated Process
A Registry Transfer is a much rarer occurrence and typically happens when the operator of a top-level domain (TLD) changes its backend provider. This type of transfer doesn't involve the domain owner directly, and it’s usually initiated by the registry itself.

When Does a Registry Transfer Happen?

A registry transfer happens when a registry changes the backend infrastructure that handles the management of a TLD. This could be because of a variety of reasons, such as:

• A change in the technical infrastructure of the TLD.

• A registry switching its backend service provider.

• Updates to registry policies that require a change in the provider managing the domain records.

In most cases, users won't need to take any action during a registry transfer. It's an internal change that usually doesn't affect domain ownership or functionality. However, the registry might notify users of any potential changes, such as a change in DNS providers or updates to terms and conditions.

User FAQ:

Q: Will I be affected by a registry transfer?

In most cases, no. Registry transfers are typically backend changes handled by the registry itself. You won't need to take any action, and your domain should continue functioning as usual.

Q: Can I initiate a registry transfer?

No, only the registry can initiate this process. As a domain owner, you won’t have to worry about registry transfers.

Key Differences: Registrar Transfer vs. Registry Transfer

Aspect	Registrar Transfer	Registry Transfer
Who Initiates It	The domain owner (user)	The registry (operator of the TLD)
What Happens	Moves domain between registrars	Changes backend provider for a TLD
Common or Rare	Common, users encounter it frequently	Rare, users typically don’t encounter it
Impact on Domain Services	No impact on website or email services	Rarely affects services; typically, no action required from users

Common Misunderstandings and Clarifications

Misunderstanding: "Will a registrar transfer impact my website?"
Clarification: No, a registrar transfer only moves your domain registration to a new registrar. Your website and email services will remain unchanged unless you make modifications to your hosting or DNS settings.

Misunderstanding: "I need to do something if my registry is changing."
Clarification: Registry transfers are typically managed by the registry itself. As a user, you usually don't need to take action. However, it's always a good idea to keep your domain contact information up to date in case you receive any important notifications.


Best Practices for Domain Transfers

To ensure a smooth domain transfer experience, follow these best practices:

Keep Your Domain Information Updated: Make sure your contact information (especially your email) is accurate and up to date.

Prepare for Transfer in Advance: Unlock your domain and obtain the authorization code ahead of time to avoid delays.

Don't Forget DNS Settings: If you're changing hosting providers during the transfer, make sure your DNS settings are properly configured to prevent service interruptions.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Registrar Transfers and Registry Transfers is crucial for effective domain management. While registrar transfers are common and user-initiated, registry transfers are rare and typically managed by the registry itself, with little impact on domain owners. By knowing the difference, you can avoid unnecessary confusion and manage your domain transfers with confidence.
Nicenic stands as that trusted partner for brands, developers, entrepreneurs, and businesses worldwide. As an ICANN-accredited registrar, Nicenic provides a seamless experience for domain management, including registrar transfers. We are committed to offering the tools, resources, and support you need to handle domain transfers with ease and confidence.

For more assistance with domain management or to begin a registrar transfer, visit Nicenic today!