A deleted domain is a domain name that was previously registered but has been released back into the pool of available domain names because the owner did not renew it before the expiry date.
Here’s how the process typically works:
- Expiration: The domain name reaches its expiration date. If the owner does not renew it, most registrars provide a grace period during which the owner can still reclaim the domain.
- Redemption Period: If the domain is not renewed during the grace period, it enters the redemption period. This is a last-chance period during which the original owner can still reclaim the domain, but often at a higher cost.
- Pending Delete: If the domain is not reclaimed during the redemption period, it enters a “pending delete” status. The domain will be deleted from the registrar’s database after this period.
- Deletion/Release: Finally, the domain name is deleted and released back into the pool of available domain names. It can now be registered by anyone on a first-come, first-served basis.
It’s worth noting that some registrars participate in domain auctions, where expired domains can be bid on before they are released back to the general public. This gives people the opportunity to acquire valuable domain names that might otherwise be snapped up quickly once they become available again.