
Malware Alert: Essential Guidelines for Securing .io Domains
.io domains are country-level domains originally designated for the British Indian Ocean Territory, but they've gained popularity among technology companies worldwide.
Registration and Transfer Features:
- Renewals occur 15 days before expiration
- No 5-day registration grace period
- Not eligible for free domain offers
- Whois Privacy is unavailable
- Domain transfers include a one-year extension
Expiration and Grace Periods:
For expired domains, grace periods vary by registrar:
- Tucows: 40-day grace period, followed by 30-day recovery period
- Key-Systems: Approximately 30 days for renewal
Important Considerations:
- Verify domain spelling before registration (no refund period)
- Renewal charges are attempted twice: 15 days and 3 days before expiration
- Failed renewals result in domain locking
- Domain transfers include remaining time plus one additional year
Renewal Process:
- Automatic charge attempt 15 days before expiration
- Second attempt 3 days before expiration if first charge fails
- Domain locks if both charges fail
Recovery Options:
- Tucows domains: Contact Tucows during 30-day recovery period
- Key-Systems domains: Contact support to check reactivation possibility
- Act quickly within grace periods to maintain domain ownership
Remember to keep payment information updated to prevent expiration and maintain continuous domain service.
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