This is a matter of utmost importance, so please read all the information in this article carefully.
What happens when a domain expires?
As soon as a domain expires, it STOPS WORKING. This is an automatic and immediate process. No domain provider can do anything to prevent this.
What happens technically is that your domain's DNS are modified and therefore your domain stops displaying the content you have published on your hosting and starts showing different information — often indicating that the domain has expired.
What can I do to fix this situation?
The only way to fix this is by paying the domain renewal with your provider. Only then can you restore the domain to normal use. Also keep in mind that if your domain has already expired, the countdown to permanently losing your domain has ALREADY begun. We suggest you don't waste a single minute in renewing your domain if you want to keep it.
Can I renew with another provider?
NO — if your domain is expired, it is not possible to renew or transfer it to another provider.
How long do I have to pay once the domain has expired?
It depends heavily on the extension. Once the domain enters "expired" status, you can still renew it at the normal price. Generally this window lasts between 0 and 45 days. Yes, you read that right. Some domains have a grace period of 0 days, meaning they go directly into the redemption period (penalty period).
What happens if the domain enters the redemption period?
The redemption period can last between 2 weeks and 30 days. During this period, renewing your domain is much more expensive (up to 20 times more) as you'll have to pay a redemption fee in addition to the renewal price. Even so, you still have one last chance to not lose your domain. It's important to understand that this situation can be avoided by renewing your domain before it expires. We suggest you renew several days in advance, especially if you use a slow payment method such as bank transfers.
What if I don't want to renew during the redemption period?
In that case, with the passage of time, your domain may go to auction and the highest bidder will become the owner. In this situation you have no priority or preferential rights to purchase the domain. It may end up being cheap or very expensive depending on how valuable your domain is to other bidders.
Do all domains go to auction?
NO. Many domains with low interest enter "Pending Delete" status — this usually lasts 5 days. Once the domain is deleted, it returns to the registry and can be registered again.
Can I let it expire and then register it again?
Yes, you can do that. But honestly, it's a terrible idea. The chances of losing your domain are quite high, and if you eventually get it back, it will have been completely inactive for nearly two months. The question is: why go through this turmoil when you can avoid it by renewing your domain today?