Pre-requirements
- Ensure your domain is unlocked and eligible for transfer (i.e., it doesn't have prohibited statuses such as clientTransferProhibited).
- Access to your domain registrar’s dashboard for obtaining the EPP authorization code.
- Ensure that the WHOIS email address for the domain is valid and can receive emails.
Introduction
Transferring your domain to WebHostM will not take your website offline unless the DNS is improperly configured. This guide outlines how to transfer your domain without affecting your website’s availability.
Steps to Transfer Your Domain to WebHostM
| Step | Description | Linux Command | Windows Command (via SSH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Unlock the Domain | A locked domain cannot be transferred. Unlock it via your current registrar's dashboard. | No specific command. Perform this via the registrar’s dashboard. | |
| 2. Verify WHOIS Email Address | Ensure that the email address associated with the domain’s WHOIS information is valid. |
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| 3. Obtain EPP Authorization Code | Request the EPP code (Transfer secret) from your registrar. This code is required to authorize the domain transfer. | No specific command. Request the code via your registrar’s dashboard. | |
| 4. Initiate Domain Transfer | Visit WebHostM and initiate the transfer process by entering your domain name and EPP code. | Transfer Domain to WebHostM | |
| 5. Approve Transfer Request | Your current registrar will send an email to the registrant contact. Approve the transfer by following the link in the email. | No specific command. Approve the transfer via email. | |
| 6. Confirm Transfer Status | Check to verify that the transfer has been initiated by either using the dashboard or running a Whois command. |
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| 7. Manage Your Domain | Once the transfer is successful, WebHostM will notify you. Manage your domain from the WebHostM dashboard. | Manage Domain | |
Domain Status Codes That Prevent Transfer
- clientTransferProhibited
- pendingDelete
- pendingTransfer
- redemptionPeriod
- serverTransferProhibited
Gotchas to Avoid
- Invalid WHOIS Email: Make sure your WHOIS email is valid; otherwise, you won’t receive the transfer authorization request.
- Wrong EPP Code: If you enter an incorrect EPP code, the transfer will fail.
- Transfer Delays: Keep in mind that domain transfers can take up to 5-7 days, depending on the domain extension (TLD).
Transferring your domain to WebHostM will not cause your website to go offline, provided the DNS is correctly configured. Follow the steps in this guide to ensure a smooth transfer process. Once completed, you can manage your domain from WebHostM’s dashboard and continue with your website uninterrupted.
For more help, visit our Knowledge Base or contact support.
