Domain status: transfer locks versus DNS suspension

Domain status describes registration conditions such as transfer or update restrictions. EPP codes include clientTransferProhibited, while WHOIS can also use provider-specific status labels.

Client and server codes

Codes beginning with client are generally set by the registrar; server codes are generally set by the registry. They can restrict transfers, updates, or deletion.

Reading the result

Enter the domain in Domain Information Lookup, complete verification, and search. Confirm the registered domain before reading the codes in domain status.

Several codes may apply at once. A code alone does not prove an outage or abuse, so consult the registrar's explanation when action is needed.

Transfer locks differ from DNS suspension

clientTransferProhibited restricts transfers, not ordinary website display. clientHold and serverHold concern DNS publication. Similar-looking restrictions affect different operations.

Read all statuses together with source and expiry. WHOIS may return provider-specific labels such as Active; do not assume every label is an EPP code.

For transfer problems, ask the registrar about unlocking conditions. For an unreachable website, investigate DNS too. Missing or unavailable status is not proof that everything is fine.