What happens after domain names expire

 When a domain name expires, it initiates a series of events and processes.

Here Are the typical steps that occur after a domain name expires:

1. Expiration Date Passes

When a domain name reaches its expiration date, the owner typically has a grace period during which they can renew the domain without any additional fees.

This grace period varies depending on the domain registrar, but it’s usually around 30 days.

2. Grace Period

During the grace period, the domain is often put on hold, and the website associated with it may be taken offline. However, the owner still has the opportunity to renew the domain without losing ownership.

3. Redemption Period

If the domain owner does not renew the domain during the grace period, it enters a redemption period.

This phase usually lasts for about 30 days. During this time, the owner can still reclaim the domain, but additional fees, known as redemption fees, are incurred.

4. Pending Deletion

After the redemption period, the domain enters a pending deletion phase, which typically lasts for about 5 days. During this period, the domain cannot be renewed, and it is queued for release back to the public.

5. Release to Public

Once the pending deletion period concludes, the domain is released back to the public. It becomes available for registration by anyone on a first-come, first-served basis. At this point, the original owner loses control and ownership rights to the domain.

6. Domain Auctions

In some cases, domain names that have expired and become available for registration may be auctioned by the registrar or by a third-party auction platform. This is common for domains with high value or significant traffic history.

7. New Ownership

Whoever registers the domain first after it becomes available will become the new owner.

They can choose to keep, transfer, or use the domain as they see fit.