Definition
DNS (Domain Name System)
Every device connected to the internet, whether it’s your phone, laptop, or a web server, needs a way to locate and communicate with other devices. They do this using unique numerical identifiers called IP addresses.
The Domain Name System (DNS) simplifies this process by translating easy-to-remember domain names into their corresponding numerical IP addresses. Instead of memorizing a long string of numbers, you can just type a web address like thinkreservations.com, and DNS automatically directs your device to the correct server behind the scenes.
Background
Domains are *purchased from registrars like GoDaddy, Network Solutions, and many others.
Always make a note of the expiration date of your domain
Set up automatic renewal
Make sure your method of payment hasn’t expired
Use an email address that you look at frequently for notifications
Don’t give out your domain credentials to just anyone
*Domains are not owned permanently. Instead, they are leased by website owners for a specific period, typically on an annual basis, and must be renewed regularly to remain active. Most registrars allow domain names to be registered for up to 10 years at a time, providing flexibility and long-term security for website owners.
Best Practices
Note your current domain names and their respective details as outlined below.
To renew your domain name(s), you will need to know your existing DNS names, the DNS company, your renewal access, and the renewal dates.
Be sure you have access. Check to see if the username and password you have are still accurate (update if needed)
Review the domain names and expiration dates.
Review and update your contact information and ensure your billing information is also accurate.
It is recommended to set up auto-renewal. This can prevent your domain from expiring and being taken over by someone else if you miss the expiration.
Be aware that many applications require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), which requires the account owner to confirm the login request. For this reason, we recommend that you log in as soon as possible to ensure you have time to address any issues with the previous owners of the domain or the registrar before it expires.
Note the following for your records for each domain name you have:
Domain Name
DNS Company
Renewal Date
User ID &Password
Make sure that your Email and contact information are recorded in the Admin, Billing, and Registrant fields. Because domains can be purchased for long periods, you may not be the one who last renewed them. You will need to be able to access this account or have it transferred into an account you own so you can manage it. ThinkReservations can offer assistance with transferring ownership of a DNS company from the Seller to the Buyer. Please get in touch with our Sales team for assistance. You should ask the Seller if they have purchased additional domain names to "park" them for future use. You may wish to get those as well, as it's likely part of your new business.
Client DNS Policy
To ensure uninterrupted access to your website and associated online services, clients are responsible for maintaining accurate domain registration information and managing domain renewals in a timely manner.
1. Domain Registration and Renewal
Clients must ensure that their domain name registration remains active and up-to-date with their chosen domain registrar.
ThinkReservations recommends:
Extending registration periods for multiple years, up to a maximum of 10 years, depending on the registrar’s policies, to minimize the risk of accidental expiration.
Monitoring renewal reminders sent by the registrar as the domain approaches expiration, and taking prompt action to renew before the renewal deadline.
Important: Failure to renew a domain may result in service interruption, loss of access to your website, or permanent loss of the domain name.
2. Maintaining Current Registration Information
Clients are responsible for maintaining accurate and current domain registration contact information. This includes:
Administrative Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, and physical mailing address of the person authorized to manage the domain.
Billing Contact Information: The contact details associated with the domain payment or renewal processing.
Technical Contact Information (Optional): The designated contact responsible for DNS configuration or technical support related to the domain.
It is important that all email addresses associated with the domain registration remain valid and monitored, as renewal notices and verification requests are typically sent to these addresses.
3. Responsibility for DNS and Service Continuity
Any updates to DNS settings (such as name server changes or record modifications) should be handled carefully by a knowledgeable service provider.
ThinkReservations is not liable for interruptions in service, data loss, or domain loss resulting from:
Expired or unrenewed domains
Outdated or incorrect registration contact information
Misconfigured DNS records
Your DNS company will typically send you an email about upcoming expirations. For these reasons, it's essential to know your domain registrar, to recognize these emails, who has access, and when it needs to be renewed.