Domain Names, Transfers and DNS Services

If you're looking to transfer a domain, register a new one or need help with your DNS Services these FAQs can be of assistance to you:

Q. Do you offer discounts on large numbers of domain name purchases?

Yes we do. The number you'll need to register to get a discount depends on whether you're attaching additional services to them or not and a few other factors. Contact our Sales Team for more information.

Q. Can I register a domain name under my name, even if it is for someone else?

No. You should always register them after your end user - even if reselling them, as the end user will own the right to the name. If registering for someone else, you should always ensure they're aware of the relevant Terms and Conditions, both ours and those of the Domain Registries.

Q. How long is a domain registered for, and do I retain the right to it?

Domain Names are typically registered by us for 2 years, unless bundled with a Hosting Package, when it is typically "per year" in line with your Hosting Renewal. For ease we always list 2 year pricing, but can offer 1-10 year renewals depending on the domain. You must renew your domain name before the expiry date with us when due for renewal to retain the right to the name.

Q. How do I change the registered owner of a domain name?

In the first instance you should contact us as the rules vary for different domains and sometimes there are alternative processes for large numbers of changes. Please be aware that in most cases, these changes are chargeable by the relevant registry.

Q. What happens when my domain is due for renewal?

We normally issue an invoice to you, typically a month in advance (it varies by domain/expiry date, but typically 15-45 days notice is given). Once paid, your domain name is renewed (providing we receive notification in time - see our "Positive Renewals" policy below). If unpaid, the domain will be cancelled. Invoices paid after the domain expires will not be accepted.

Q. If I have failed to renew in time, can my domain be recovered?

In most cases yes, depending on how long it is since the domain expired. However, there may be significant additional charges for this (from the Registry) plus our administrative costs, and we strongly recommend customers make a note in diaries etc important dates relating to domain names to avoid this.

Q. My Web Hosting package is supposed to include a domain name, but I'm billed, why?

Our Bundled billing option is only available where the domain name and hosting package are initially purchased together. This option is not available for transfers or where the domain was registered at a different time. In some cases your account can be converted by asking us to synchronise your billing dates.

Q. Are there any restrictions on the domain names I can register?

For most of the common suffixes such as .com, .org, .co.uk etc there is no limitation, but some domains, particularly those of many countries (known as a ccTLD) have restrictions that may limit the number of registrations, or who can actually register the domain at all (often requiring local citizenship or trading etc).

Q. Why do you not automatically renew domains?

Unless you have our "Automatically Renew" option available, we do not do this because we are unable to reverse a renewal - and would therefore attract significant extra costs for domains renewed which are not required.

Domain Name Transfers

Q. If I transfer a domain name away, what happens?

When we process the transfer, all connected services with that domain name will be terminated. If any minimum term or notice periods apply, these will be charged. In some cases, we will not be able to transfer your domain name until any outstanding charges are paid. If you need to retain your services for a limited time, we can offer a retainer service for a small additional charge (payable by Credit Card).

Q. Do you charge to transfer a domain TO VPWSYS?

If you are transferring as part of our other services (such as Web Hosting, VPower Servers etc) then there is normally no charge. For domain-only transfers we do charge. The charge varies depending on the domain name type, and often includes an additional 1 year registration period. Please contact us for more information.

Q. How do I transfer a domain name AWAY from VPWSYS?

To transfer a domain name, you will need to contact us in writing. You should: 1) Open a request with our Support Team, then 2) Write to "Customer Services, PO BOX 230, Exeter, Devon, EX2 8WQ" stating you want to transfer, provide the new provider (ISP) details (ask them to provide the relevant information), and state the support incident number you raised. We will then process your request. We cannot accept transfer requests by e-mail or by phone for security reasons due to the number of fraudulent and accidental requests we receive. You cannot transfer a domain that is less than 30 days from it's renewal date. Transfers can take between 2-10 working days to process depending on the domain type. Fast Track transfer is available for some types of domain when you need to make a change more quickly.

Q. Can I change just the nameservers to a different provider?

Yes, this is normally possible. However, we cannot provide any services to you other than domain registration if you do this. We do not allow third parties to hold DNS pointing to us due to compatibility issues with our resilient platform.

Q. Can I keep my domain with another provide and point Web Hosting to you?

No. Excluding .ac.uk, .gov.uk and exceptional circumstances (where a supplemental charge may apply), we do not allow this. If your domain name is on another providers nameservers, our resilience packages, SLA's, and continued connectivity features (where applicable) are not available. Please contact us if you need to know more or believe special circumstances apply.

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