How to find a domain name owner (vis WHOIS)

9 hours ago3 min read

WHOIS is a critical component of the domain name system (DNS). It’s a publicly accessible database that provides information, including ownership details about all registered domain names.

WHOIS is an invaluable tool as it helps in verifying the legitimacy of a domain, in understanding competitor domains and in helping you track down domains you might want to buy for your business.

When it comes to navigating the complexities of WHOIS and using its full potential for your business needs there are a few key terms to understand:

Domain name: The unique address used to access websites on the internet.
Domain registrar: An organization accredited by ICANN to register domain names.
Registrant: The individual or entity that owns a domain name.
DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates human-friendly domain names into IP addresses.

How to find a domain name owner: using WHOIS

To effectively use the WHOIS lookup tool, start by accessing a reliable WHOIS database online. Many registrars, like Wix, offer this service. The next step is to then enter the domain name you wish to investigate in the search bar provided.

You can also explore our list of the best domain registrars.

Once you start your search, the tool will retrieve detailed information about the domain. This includes registration data, expiration date and contact details of the domain owner. Understanding this data can help you or your business make informed decisions regarding domain acquisitions or disputes.

Let’s recap the steps:

Visit a trusted WHOIS lookup website.
Enter the desired domain name in the search field.
Review the displayed registration details and ownership information.

Why would I need to find a domain owner?

One of the main reasons for needing to track down a domain owner is because you want to buy the domain name, for your brand or business. If the domain you want is already registered, there are several things you can do. One option is to contact the current owner directly using their contact information found in the WHOIS database. Alternatively, you can wait for the domain to expire and attempt to register it then, you will be able to see the expiry day in WHOIS as well.

Negotiating with the current domain owner can be an effective way to acquire a registered domain. Approach these negotiations professionally and be prepared to offer a fair price. If direct negotiation seems daunting, you can consider hiring a domain broker service. They specialize in managing domain transactions and can help secure the desired domain on your behalf.

Domain name registration data, what is it exactly?

Registration data in WHOIS is made up of several key components that are considered crucial parts of domain management. These typically consist of the registrant's name, contact information, registration and expiration dates and the domain registrar's details.

Why is this data important?

For businesses, interpreting WHOIS results can offer strategic advantages. By analyzing registration data, you can verify domain ownership, assess potential domain acquisition opportunities and monitor your competitor's activities.

For example, you might want to purchase all the potential spelling variations of your business or brand name, as domain names. To do this, you may have to check the WHOIS to see if these variations have been purchased and registered to anyone else already.

Registrant information: Identifies the owner of the domain.
Registrar details: Shows which company registered the domain.
Registration dates: Indicates when the domain was registered and when it will expire.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) plays a pivotal role in managing the WHOIS database. They oversee the accreditation of domain registrars who then manage and complete domain registrations.

WHOIS and privacy concerns

WHOIS data is publicly accessible, which raises significant privacy concerns for domain owners. It allows you to research and check domain name ownerships for your own purposes but it also allows individuals and businesses to do the same.

The exposure of personal information from WHOIS, such as names and contact details, can lead to unwanted solicitations or even identity theft.

To safeguard your privacy, you can take several measures. One effective approach is to use the privacy protection services offered by domain registrars. These services mask personal information in the WHOIS database, displaying only the registrar's contact details instead.

Here’s a recap of the steps you can take to protect your privacy and personal information when buying a domain name.

Use privacy protection services: Opt for services that conceal your personal data. When you register a domain with Wix you can choose from a few domain privacy options including, Public registration, Private registration or Private registration and DNSSEC.
Regularly update your information: Ensure that your contact details are current and accurate.
Monitor your WHOIS entries: Regular checks can help identify unauthorized changes or breaches. You should also check that this is something your domain registrar is on top of as part of their domain security processes.