Question 1

What is RDAP and how is it different from WHOIS?

Accepted Answer

RDAP (Registration Data Access Protocol) is the modern successor to WHOIS. It returns structured JSON data instead of plain text, supports authentication and access control, and has a standardized response format. RDAP is now required by ICANN for all new gTLD registries.

Question 2

Why is WHOIS data redacted?

Accepted Answer

Since GDPR came into effect in 2018, registrars are required to redact personal information (name, email, phone, address) from public WHOIS records for registrants in the EU and many other regions. This is why many WHOIS lookups show 'Redacted for privacy' in contact fields.

Question 3

What does 'clientTransferProhibited' mean in WHOIS?

Accepted Answer

clientTransferProhibited is an EPP status code that means the domain registrar has locked the domain against unauthorized transfers to another registrar. This is a security feature — you must explicitly unlock the domain through your registrar panel before initiating a transfer.

Question 4

How do I find out when a domain expires?

Accepted Answer

The WHOIS/RDAP lookup shows the 'Registry Expiry Date' field. Domains typically have a 30-45 day auto-renew grace period after expiry before they become available for registration by others. Set up renewal reminders at least 60 days before expiry.