Manage your dot-ca
Your domain name reflects your identity.
Simple management can protect you from losing it.
Nobody "owns" a dot-ca domain name. Domain names are simply registered for a period of time by individuals or organizations. If you don't renew the registration when it expires, you can lose your domain name and your online identity.
- Domain names are registered on a first-come, first-served basis. You can register a domain name for up to 10 years-provided it's not already registered to someone else.
- You will be notified before your registration expires. If you let your registration lapse, someone else can register the domain name and control your identity.
- Protecting yourself is easy: appoint a responsible Administrative Contact and keep your email address up-to-date and functional.
Remember: Renew your registration...
Dot-ca domain names can be registered for periods of up to 10 years and registration must be renewed when the term expires. If it's not renewed*, anyone can register the domain name.
Most Registrars give you 60 days' notice before your domain name expires. CIRA will give you seven days' notice before the domain is made inactive.
If you forget to renew your dot-ca domain name, your domain will be inactive for up to 30 days-websites or email addresses will not work. Your Administrative Contact can renew the registration within the 30 days and the domain will become active again.
Protect yourself: Keep your dot-ca registration information current
CIRA and your Registrar will email expiry and renewal notices ONLY to the Administrative Contact that you provide when you register.
- Make sure your Administrative Contact is the responsible person.
- Make sure your Administrative Contact's email address is correct and up-to-date.
Remember: your dot-ca domain name reflects your identity. Taking a few easy steps to manage your registration will protect this identity.
*If you forget to renew your domain name and someone else registers it, you may be able to initiate proceedings through CIRA's Dispute Resolution Process, provided you have a registered Canadian trademark that resembles the domain name.
