Domain Password, Transfer Code, Authorisation Key or Auth Key

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In order to transfer a domain name from one registrar to another, you need a key or code. These keys have various different names derived from the various different domains that exist, however they are generally referred to as a Domain Password or Authorisation Key (Auth Key). Auth key’s are also known as EPP Keys derived from the Extensible Provisioning Protocol (EPP). This protocol was created to help domain registries and registrars communicate better.

So why do you need a password or key for your domain name? This is fairly self explanatory if you think about it. If each domain wasn’t protected by a password or key, then anyone could claim any domain as their own and quite easily transfer it into their own name. The password stops random transferring of domain names and only allows the holder of the password to transfer it. The password holder is usually the registrant.

Even though this system greatly reduces fraud in the domain name system, it is like any system, not 100% failsafe. If a registrar registers a domain on behalf of a client, but registers the domain in their own name rather than the rightful owner’s name, this can cause problems. What makes this even more problematic is if the registrar doesn’t give the client (who should rightfully be the registrant) the domain password. In this scenario it is very easy for them to highjack your domain. And there is very little you can then do about it.

Make sure you have control of your domain at all times, this is your online address and if your online presence is your source of income, you need to be in control of it!

Things you should get from a reputable registrar:

• Domain Name registered in your name. That means the details listed under “Registrant” for that domain, should be your details!
• Domain Password, Auth Key or EPP Key.
• Username and Password to access the domain management section that you have control over. You also have control over the Name Servers that your domain has listed and you can change them to a different host’s Name Servers if required.

It is worth taking the time to familiarise yourself with these tools when you register a domain for the first time. This can save you a lot of problems in the future once your business has become a success and your domain name is a valuable asset.

NewSprout Hosting’s MD, Gavin Payne, has been Hosting servers, applications and websites for over 10 years, helping global companies including Telstra, Bidvest, VISA, AVIS, AT&T, Peugeot, BMW, Motorola and many others build their online presence. NewSprout is an Australian company offering website hosting, email services and domain name registrations to business and personal clients. For more information visit https://www.newsprout.com.au/web-hosting