How to Lock or Unlock Your Domain Name

What is a domain lock?

A domain lock is like a padlock on your domain name. It stops anyone from moving the domain to another company without your approval. Another name for it is the registrar lock or transfer lock.

A locked domain is safer. Thieves cannot easily steal it. Keep the lock on unless you want to move the domain.

When should you unlock?

• You want to transfer the domain to another registrar. A registrar is a company that sells domain names.
• You need an EPP code for a transfer. An EPP code is a secret password for the domain. Some domains only give it out when unlocked.

Warning: An unlocked domain is open to unwanted transfers. Lock it again as soon as you finish.

Steps

1. Go to the Hostvento client area and log in.
2. Click the Domains menu.
3. Click My Domains.
4. Find your domain. Click Manage Domain or the menu next to it.
5. Look for Registrar Lock in the menu on the left. It may also be called Lock Status.
6. To lock the domain, switch the lock on or choose Enable.
7. To unlock the domain, switch the lock off or choose Disable.
8. Click Save Changes.
9. Wait a few minutes, then reload the page to check the new status.

If you cannot find the option

• Some domain endings do not allow locking. Country domains are often like this.
• Very new domains can be locked for a short time by the registry. This is normal.
• A domain recently transferred may stay locked for a time.

In these cases, open a support ticket. Tell us the domain name and what you want to do.

Quick recap

• A domain lock blocks unwanted transfers.
• Find it under Domains, My Domains, then Manage Domain.
• Use Registrar Lock to switch it on or off.
• Unlock only when you plan to transfer, then lock again.
• Ask support if the option is missing.