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Domain lock and unlock
A domain lock stops your domain being transferred to another registrar without you. Here is what the lock does, when to turn it off, and how to unlock a domain safely for a transfer.
4 chapters and a transfer checklist
A domain lock, also called a transfer lock or registrar lock, is a setting on your domain that blocks transfers to another registrar. While it is on, a transfer request is refused, even if someone has the domain's transfer code.
It does not affect your website or email. The domain keeps working exactly as before; only transfers are blocked.
Key points
The registrar lock is the one you switch on and off yourself. It shows in WHOIS as the status clientTransferProhibited.
A registry lock is a stricter, manual lock set at the registry. Changes need extra verification, so it suits high-value domains. Not every extension offers it.
Key points
Only unlock a domain when you are moving it to another registrar. Unlock it, get the transfer code, start the transfer, and the lock no longer matters once the domain has moved.
If you change your mind, or the transfer fails, turn the lock back on.
Key points
Separate from the lock you control, ICANN rules block transfers of generic domains such as .com for 60 days after registration or a previous transfer. A change of owner details can also start a 60-day lock, unless you opt out when making the change.
You cannot remove it early; wait for it to end, then transfer.
Key points
Locked vs unlocked
How the two states compare.
01Locked | 02Unlocked |
|---|---|
The setting for every domain you are not moving. | Only while you transfer the domain away. |
|
|
Step by step
It must be active, and past any 60-day lock after registration or a previous transfer.
In your current registrar's dashboard, open the domain and turn off the transfer, registrar or domain lock.
Ask for the transfer code, also called the EPP or authorization code. Keep it private.
Enter the domain and code at the new registrar and approve any confirmation email.
Moving to Cloudoora? Start on our domain transfer page.
When the domain has arrived, check that the lock is on at the new registrar.
FAQ
It blocks transfers of your domain to another registrar. Your website, email and DNS keep working as normal.
Yes, unless you are transferring it. A lock is the simplest protection against an unauthorised transfer.
No. Unlocking only allows transfers. Your site and email are not affected.
Run a WHOIS lookup and look at the status codes. clientTransferProhibited means the registrar lock is on.
It may be within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer, have expired, or have a registry lock. The current registrar can tell you which.
You turn the registrar lock on and off yourself. A registry lock is set at the registry and needs extra verification to change, so it protects high-value domains further.
No. The lock only affects transfers. You can change nameservers and DNS records while it is on.
Unlock it at your current registrar, then start the transfer here.
