What does it mean to delete a domain name?

DomainCn
15 Oct 2025 09:55:02 AM
A domain name is like the identity card of every website. Have you ever heard of the term "squatting"? What does it mean? Why do some people specifically register domains that are about to be deleted? Today, we'll discuss the concept and pr
What does it mean to delete a domain name?

A domain name is like the identity card of every website. Have you ever heard of the term "squatting"? What does it mean? Why do some people specifically register domains that are about to be deleted? Today, we'll discuss the concept and process of squatting.

1. What is squatting?

Squatting is the practice of quickly registering a domain name just as it's about to be deleted or expire. When a domain registrant fails to renew on time or chooses not to use it, the domain enters a "deletion cycle." During this period, other people have the opportunity to squat on it.

2. The Process of Squatting

1. Domain Expiration

Every domain name has a registration period, usually one year or longer. If the registrant fails to renew before the expiration date, the domain name enters an expired state, typically with a grace period. During this grace period, the original registrant can still renew, but if they do not, the domain name enters the deletion process.

2. Deletion Cycle

After a domain name expires, it goes through several stages: first, the expired state, then the redemption period, and finally, the deletion period. During the redemption period, the original registrant can still redeem the domain name at a higher fee. If the domain name is not renewed after the redemption period, it will enter the deletion period, eventually being deleted and reopened for registration.

3. Back-scraping Registration

Once a domain name enters the deletion period, anyone can attempt to register it. To successfully register it, many domain name investors use specialized back-scraping services that can submit registration requests the moment a domain name is released. Because time is money in this process, back-scrapers need to seize opportunities in the ever-changing online environment.

3. Why Back-scrape Deleted Domains?

1. Investment Opportunity

Many investors believe that back-scraping deleted domains is an investment opportunity. Certain domain names may become very valuable in the future, especially those that are short, memorable, or related to popular keywords. By back-scraping these domains, investors may be able to sell them at a higher price in the future.

2. Brand Protection

Businesses and individuals may also back-scrape deleted domains to protect their brands. For example, if a company's name is already registered in a domain, the company may consider back-scraping to prevent competitors or others from using it.

3. Personal Interest

Some people may simply want to register a specific domain name out of personal interest. Whether it's to build a personal website or for a specific project, domain name squatting can meet these needs.

IV. Risks of Domain Squatting

1. Intense Competition

Competition for domain squatting is fierce, especially for popular domains. Even if you use a squatting service, you may not be able to successfully register the desired domain name.

2. Investment Risk

While some domain names may appreciate in value in the future, not all squatted domains will have market demand. Investors should carefully assess the potential value of a domain name to avoid financial losses.

3. Legal Issues

Some domain names may involve trademark or copyright issues, and squatting on these domains may lead to legal disputes. Therefore, it is best to conduct thorough research and evaluation before squatting.

Disclaimers:

Domaincn.com Committed to providing fair and transparent reports. This article aims to provide accurate and timely information, but should not be construed as financial or investment advice. Due to the rapidly changing market conditions, we recommend that you verify the information yourself and consult a professional before making any decisions based on this information.