Why do I have to transfer my domain, and what does
it mean?
I don't have a domain name yet
Name Server information
Network Solutions
Register.com
TotalNIC
Internet Names Australia (.au only)
Firstly, a basic explanation of the domain name system (this isn't entirely accurate but for all intents and purposes it will help you're understanding of what is happening). When you type in an address into your browser a domain name database is checked to find the name servers for that domain. Once your browser knows the name servers ii contacts them to find the specific address of the computer that the website is located on. Once it has that information, it then goes to that computer and retrieves the web page. When you sign up with a hosting provider you have the Internic domain database changed so that it points to your new hosting providers name servers. Your hosting provider will set up their name servers to accept your domain and point it to the right computer (the one that will have your website actually on it).
Domain name registrars are the companies who actually modify the domain database for you. You pay them a licence fee for rights to a domain, and they update the domain database when you tell them where you want it to point.
As there so many domain registrars, it is impossible for us to list explicit instructions on changing the name servers associated with your domain for all of them. We've tried to document a few of the more common ones, however, they may change without our knowledge. The job of transferring your domain is essentially up to you, as we don't actually have any power to transfer the domain. Only the Administrative Contact or Technical Contact can change details, however, we are willing to give you help when you have specific questions. If you need help, send your specific question to your representative and they will try to help you out.
A handy tool is called 'whois'. This can be used to check a registered domain and identify the current name servers. http://www.allwhois.com/ operates a whois service that works for most domains:
Please also remember that after you've changed it, it can take up to 2 days to propogate throughout the world, meaning, the change may not be visible for up to 2 days (it could be longer if you are behind a firewall or proxy).
You will need to obatain a domain name to be able to have your site hosted, and to be able to use your own email server.
Do you need an Australian Domain Name (in the .au name space), or are you happy to have a "top level" domain name such as one in the .com. .net or .org name spaces?
Depending upon certain eligibility constraints, you may be able to register in one of the following "second level" Australian domains
| asn.au | For 'associations'. Includes associations incorporated under specific state legislation, some incorporated bodies, political parties, trade unions, sporting and special interest clubs and 'partnerships' between disparate organisations. |
| com.au | For commercial purposes. Includes commercial entities, currently registered and trading in Australia, as well as commercial products and services. |
| net.au | For commercial purposes. Includes commercial entities, currently registered and trading in Australia, as well as commercial products and services. Almost all of the domains in this domain type tend to be net/communications related. |
| org.au | For non-commercial purposes. Includes not-for-proft organisations, charities, churches, welfare groups etc. |
| id.au | For individuals |
| gov.au | For exclusive use by Australian governments. Eligibility is demonstrated by reference to an Act of Parliament or government regulation. |
| edu.au | For education-related bodies. Eligibility is demonstrated by sufficient evidence, as determined by the registrar, that the requesting body is education-related. |
For a list of Registrars who offer registration services within the Australian name space, and a comparison of their fees, please go to http://www.whatsinaname.com.au/.
If you are happy to use a .com, .net or .org name then registration costs will generally be lower than similar names in the Australian name space. There are also no current registration constraints, so you may find it easier to obtain the name you want. There are many domain registration companies, and prices are extremely competitive. Search Google for "domain names" or similar terms to see what various companies are currently offering. One registrar that we currently favour is http://www.dotster.com, but there are no doubt many others just as competitive.
The following details are those required when redelegating your domain name
| Primary Name Server | ns.nshosts.com |
| Primary Name Server IP | 209.163.250.154 |
| Secondary Name Server | ns2.nshosts.com |
| Secondary Name Server IP | 216.58.174.151 |
Go to http://www.networksolutions.com/cgi-bin/makechanges/domain.mod
Type in your domain name and email address
Click on 'Proceed'
Change the name server information and submit form
You'll receive an email back which you need to reply to
Go to http://www.register.com/
Click on 'Manage my Domain'
Login
Click on 'Modify DNS'
Remove the current name servers
Enter the name servers above
Submit the changes
Go to Totalnic.net
Click on 'Registration Tools'
Click on 'Modify Domain'
Type in your domain name
Click on 'Modify Domain'
Fill out the name servers
Click on 'Modify Domain'
From there follow instructions.
Go to http://www.ina.com.au/delegation/predel.html
Click on 'Continue Delegation/Redelegation'
Fill out the details including your email address, domain, NIC handles
(if you do not know them go to http://www.aunic.net/aunicstatus.html to find them, and put the new primary and secondary name servers.
If the domain had been delegated (e.g. hosted) elsewhere then you may
also need to send through a fax authorisation.