AHN Domain Ownership/Transfer

Website Domain:

Every website is identified by a unique series of numbers called an IP (Internet Protocol) Address. This number set is what your computer uses to connect you to the server where your website database lives. Since it's easier to remember names instead of a series of numbers, we use a domain name like "FRONTSTEPS.COM" instead of 34.193.69.252.

Domain Registration:

Domain name registration is the act of reserving a name on the Internet for a certain period, usually in 1 year increments. There are many different companies that provide domain registration services. AtHomeNet clients may elect to keep their registration with a third party company or domain ownership can be transferred to our registrar for your convenience. The domain must be renewed periodically. There is no way to register a domain permanently.

If you choose to maintain your own domain registration, it is very important to keep your contact information current with your domain registrar. You will be notified via email when the domain needs to be renewed. Once the domain expires, the domain will no longer route users to the website. If the domain is not renewed promptly, it will revert back to public availability and anyone can purchase it and use it for their own purposes. Think of it like a phone number. If you stop paying your bill, the phone company will stop that number from ringing at your house. If no action is taken, that number will eventually be given to someone else.

DNS Records:

The Domain Name System (DNS) helps users to find their way around the Internet. These records are what controls what happens when a user types a certain domain name into their browser. (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

Domain Transfer Process:

This process cannot proceed without the cooperation of both registrars.

1. The current owner of the domain must log into their registry account and unlock the domain and generate a domain transfer authorization code.

2. The current owner of the domain must send this authorization code to the intended new owner.

3. The intended new owner will then initiate a transfer within their own registrar.

4. The new registrar will then email the account holder of the outgoing registrar with instructions for giving final approval for the domain ownership transfer.

5. Once the transfer has been approved, it will become final in 5-7 business days. There is no way to expedite this process.