How to Manage .io Domain Names: Registration and Transfer Guidelines

How to Manage .io Domain Names: Registration and Transfer Guidelines

By Michael Thompson

February 7, 2025 at 09:37 AM

The .io domain extension is a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD) originally designated for the British Indian Ocean Territory, but now widely used by technology companies worldwide. Here's what you need to know about .io domains:

Key Features:

  • Popular choice for tech startups and digital companies
  • Can be registered, transferred, or connected to various platforms
  • No WHOIS privacy protection available
  • Not eligible for free domain offerings

Renewal Process:

  • Automatic renewal attempts occur 15 days before expiration
  • Secondary attempt made 3 days before expiration if initial charge fails
  • Domain locks if renewal fails

Expiration Guidelines:

  • Tucows Registrar:

    • 40-day renewal grace period after expiration
    • 30-day redemption period through Tucows afterward
  • Key-Systems Registrar:

    • Approximately 30-day renewal window after expiration
    • Limited restoration options once domain disappears from dashboard

Important Notes:

  • No 5-day registration grace period
  • No refunds after registration
  • When transferring, you'll need to purchase a 1-year extension
  • Existing registration time is preserved during transfers
  • Domain transfers include an additional year of registration

Always verify domain spelling before registration, as cancellations are not possible once registered.

Domain availability and pricing can be checked through your registrar's domain search tool or dashboard.

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