WHOIS
A public database containing information about domain name registrations.
WHOIS is a query protocol that provides information about who owns a domain name. When you register a domain, your contact information is recorded in the WHOIS database.
WHOIS records typically include:
- Registrant name and organization
- Contact email address
- Phone number
- Physical address
- Registration and expiration dates
- Nameserver information
- Registrar details
WHOIS Privacy: Most registrars offer privacy protection that masks your personal information with proxy details:
- Your name replaced with privacy service name
- Your address replaced with registrar's address
- Your email replaced with proxy email
Accessing WHOIS: You can look up WHOIS information through:
- whois.domaintools.com
- who.is
- Your registrar's WHOIS lookup
- Command line:
whois domain.com
WHOIS Accuracy: ICANN requires WHOIS information to be accurate. Providing false information can result in domain suspension.
Why It Matters
WHOIS privacy protects you from spam, unwanted solicitations, and potential security risks. However, WHOIS is also used legitimately to identify domain owners for business opportunities, legal matters, and technical issues.
Practical Example
Before buying a taken domain, you might look up its WHOIS to find the owner's contact information. If privacy is enabled, you can often reach them through the proxy email provided.
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