Glossary

Geek speak: the domain industry dictionary

a

A Record

A records allow domain names to be translated into numerical IP addresses, which computers use to locate and communicate with each other over the Internet.

AAAA Record

An AAAA record, also known as an IPv6 address record, maps domain names to IPv6 addresses in the DNS.

Access Control

Access control refers to the practice of managing and restricting access to certain resources or areas within a system or physical space. It ensures that only authorized individuals are able to access specific information, data, or locations.

Anycast

Anycast is a networking technique that allows multiple servers to share the same IP address.

Anycast DNS

Anycast DNS is an advanced DNS service that boosts your website’s performance by using a large network of DNS servers around the globe.

b

BIMI Record

A BIMI record is a type of DNS record that allows organizations to display their brand logo next to their authenticated emails in their receiver's email inboxes.

Bulk Domain Registration

Bulk domain registration is a service that allows individuals or businesses to register multiple domain names at once, often saving both time and money.

c

ccTLD

A ccTLD (country code top-level domain) is a domain extension associated with a particular country but they are usually open to registration for anyone in the world.

Certificate Authority

A Certificate Authority (CA) is a trusted entity that issues digital signature certificates, such as SSL certificates for websites and Code Signing certificates for software.

clientHold

The domain status code "clientHold" is a status set by a domain registrar, indicating that the domain is temporarily inactive.

clientRenewProhibited

clientRenewProhibited is a domain status code that prevents domains from being renewed without explicit consent.

clientTransferProhibited

The status code clientTransferProhibited indicates that a domain is locked at the registrar level, preventing unauthorized transfers without first being unlocked.

clientUpdateProhibited

In domain management, the status code clientUpdateProhibited signifies that updates to the domain are not allowed, typically for security reasons or during disputes.

CNAME record

A CNAME record, short for Canonical Name record, is a type of DNS record that is used to alias (redirect) one domain name to another.

Code Signing Certificate

A Code Signing Certificate is a digital certificate that developers use to digitally sign their software applications, scripts, or code files.

Cryptographic Protocols

Cryptographic protocols are sets of rules and procedures that govern the secure communication between two or more parties over a network.

Cybersquatting

Cybersquatting is a practice in which individuals or entities register domain names that are similar to popular trademarks or brand names with the intention of profiting from the goodwill associated with those names.

d

Data Privacy

Data privacy refers to the protection of personal information and sensitive data from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. It is a fundamental human right and a critical aspect of maintaining trust in the digital age.

Digital Signature Certificate

A digital signature certificate (DSC) is a secure digital key, issued by a Certificate Authority, that validates and certifies the identity of the person or organization holding this certificate.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attack

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack is when many computers work together to overwhelm a website or online service with too much traffic.

DKIM

DKIM stands for “DomainKeys Identified Mail”. This is an email authentication protocol that domain owners can add to the DNS zone of their domain.

DMARC

DMARC is an email authentication protocol that verifies whether the sender of an email that claims to be from a particular domain actually has permission to send this email.

DNS

The DNS is like the Internet's phonebook, translating the numerical IP addresses that computers use to connect into easy-to-remember domain names.

DNS Amplification Attack

A DNS amplification attack is a type of DDoS attack that exploits vulnerabilities in the DNS protocol.

DNS Cache

DNS cache, also known as a DNS resolver cache, is a temporary storage location for DNS records.

DNS Flood Attack

A DNS flood attack is a type of distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack that targets DNS servers.

DNS Hijacking

DNS hijacking is a cyber attack where attackers manipulate the Domain Name System (DNS) settings to redirect users from a legitimate website to a fake or malicious one.

DNS Over HTTPS (DoH)

DNS over HTTPS (DoH) is a protocol that encrypts and secures the DNS queries between a user's device and a DNS resolver.

DNS Over TLS (DoT)

DNS over TLS (DoT) is a security protocol that encrypts DNS queries and responses to protect users' privacy and data.

DNS Poisoning

DNS poisoning, also known as DNS spoofing or DNS cache poisoning, is a cyber attack in which an attacker corrupts the DNS cache of a computer or network.

DNS Query

A DNS query is a process in which a device, such as a computer or smartphone, requests information from a DNS server regarding a specific domain name.

DNS Resolver

A DNS resolver is a crucial component of the DNS infrastructure that translates human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1), which computers use to identify each other on the network.

DNS Root Server

The DNS root servers are a crucial component of the Domain Name System (DNS), which is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses.

DNS Security

DNS security refers to the measures and protocols put in place to protect the DNS from various cyber threats and attacks.

DNS Spoofing

DNS spoofing, also known as DNS cache poisoning, is a cyber attack where attackers introduce corrupt DNS data into the DNS resolver's cache.

DNS Tunneling

DNS tunneling is a technique used by cybercriminals that involves encoding data in DNS queries and responses, creating a covert channel for communication that is difficult to detect.

DNS Zone File

A DNS zone file is a text file that contains the mapping of domain names to IP addresses and other resources within a specific domain namespace.

DNSSEC

DNSSEC is a set of protocols and cryptographic mechanisms designed to add an extra layer of security to the DNS.

Domain Alias

A domain alias is an additional domain name that points to the same website as the primary domain.

Domain Auction

A domain auction is a competitive bidding process organized by domain marketplaces or registrars, where registered domain names are sold to the highest bidder.

Domain Backorder

A domain backorder is a service offered by some domain registrars that allows you to “reserve” a domain name that is already registered by someone else.

Domain Expiration

Domain expiration refers to the date when a domain registration expires and becomes available for renewal, potentially leading to the loss of the domain name if not renewed in time.

Domain Expiry Lookup

A domain expiry lookup is a process used to find out when a domain name is set to expire.

Domain Extension

A domain extension, also known as a top-level domain (TLD), is the part of a domain name that comes after the dot.

Domain Flipping

Domain flipping is a practice that involves purchasing domain names to resell for profit, focusing on factors like keywords, brandability, and potential development.

Domain Forwarding

Domain forwarding, also known as URL forwarding, is a service that lets you redirect visitors from one domain name to another.

Domain Hijacking

Domain hijacking is a type of cyber attack where an unauthorized individual gains control of a domain name without the permission of the legitimate owner.

Domain Management

Domain management refers to the different tasks and responsibilities that come with registering and managing domain names.

Domain Name

A domain name is a unique, readable address used to visit websites. It translates numerical IP addresses into memorable names, making it easier for humans to find and access websites. Each domain name is unique and registered to avoid duplicates.

Domain Name Masking

Domain name masking, also known as URL masking or domain cloaking, is a technique used to hide the actual domain name of a website from visitors by displaying a different domain name in the browser's address bar.

Domain Ownership

Domain ownership refers to the legal rights and control a person or organization has over a specific domain name on the internet.

Domain Parking

Domain parking is the practice of registering a domain name without associating it with a website or email hosting, instead displaying advertisements or a simple "Coming Soon" page.

Domain Portfolio Consolidation

Domain portfolio consolidation refers to the process of transferring a collection of domain names owned by one domain reseller or company to just one domain registrar.

Domain Privacy Protection

Domain privacy protection is a service offered by domain registrars to protect the personal information of domain owners from being publicly accessible in the Whois database.

Domain Promotion

A domain promotion is a special price or deal on domain names, usually on their registration price.

Domain Propagation

Domain propagation is the process of distributing changes to a domain name, such as DNS updates or new registrations, across the internet.

Domain Redirect

The process of a domain redirect, also commonly known as domain forwarding or URL forwarding, lets you redirect visitors from one domain name to another.

Domain Registrar

A domain name registrar is a business that provides domain name registrations.

Domain Registration

Domain registration is the process of registering a unique name for a website on the Internet.

Domain Registry

A domain registry serves as a centralized database responsible for managing and maintaining domain name registrations within specific top-level domains (TLDs).

Domain Renewal

Domain renewal is the process of extending the registration period for a domain name.

Domain Reseller

A domain reseller is someone that offers domain registration and management services to their customers, while not being an accredited domain registrar.

Domain Reseller API

A Domain Reseller API is a tool that allows domain resellers to integrate domain registration and management functionalities into their websites or applications.

Domain Reseller Program

A domain reseller program is a special program that domain registrars may offer to resellers.

Domain Spoofing

Domain spoofing is a fraudulent practice in which an attacker impersonates a legitimate website or email domain in order to deceive users into providing sensitive information or engaging in malicious activities.

Domain Squatting

Domain squatting, also known as cybersquatting, involves registering domain names similar to well-known brands with the intent of profiting from their goodwill.

Domain Tasting

Domain tasting is a practice that involves registering numerous domain names temporarily to test their profitability before committing to full registration.

Domain Transfer

A domain transfer is the process of moving a registered domain name from one domain registrar to another.

Domain Transfer Authorization Code

A domain transfer authorization code, often referred to as an EPP code or auth code, is a unique string of characters that acts as a password for a domain name.

Domain Validation (DV) SSL certificate

Domain Validation (DV) certificates are a particular subset of SSL certificates. DV certificates are intended for websites that do not process customer data in any shape or form.

Domainer

A domainer is someone who engages in the practice of buying, selling, and holding domain names as a form of investment.

Domicile Address

A domicile address refers to the place where an individual has their fixed, permanent home and principal establishment, and to which they intend to return whenever they are absent.

Dynamic DNS

Dynamic DNS is a technology that automatically updates DNS records for domain names with dynamic IP addresses, allowing websites and network devices to remain accessible despite frequent changes.

e

EasyDMARC

EasyDMARC is a tool that makes it possible to add and update a DMARC record straight from its control panel, without the need of manually updating the DNS.

Email Encryption

Email encryption is a security measure that involves encoding email messages to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.

Email Hosting

Email hosting is a service that provides a dedicated platform for managing and hosting your email accounts.

EPP Code

The EPP code is a standardized protocol used in the domain name industry to facilitate the secure transfer of domain names between registrars.

Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate

Extended Validation (EV) certificates are a particular subset of SSL certificates. EV certificates are designed for use by large enterprise companies.

g

Grace Period

The grace period is a specific timeframe in the domain lifecycle that allows for domain name renewal without additional fees or penalties after a domain has expired.

gTLD

gTLDs (generic top-level domains) are the largest category of domain extensions. gTLDs are not connected to a particular country or region.

h

Hostname

A hostname is a label assigned to a device connected to a network, such as a computer or server, which is used to identify the device within a specific domain. I

HSTS Preload

The HSTS Preload list is a list of domains that are hardcoded into browsers to enforce HTTPS connections from the outset.

i

ICANN

ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) is the authority responsible for the management of the domain name system.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

Intellectual property rights (IPR) refer to the legal rights that protect the creations of the human mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce.

Internet Exchange Points

Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are physical locations where multiple ISPs and networks connect and exchange traffic with one another.

IP Address Management

IP address management (IPAM) is the process of planning, tracking, and managing IP addresses within a network infrastructure.

l

Landrush Period

The Landrush Period is a specific period in the launch of new top-level domain extensions (TLDs) where domain names are made available for registration on a first-come, first-served basis.

m

Man-In-The-Middle Attack

A man-in-the-middle (MitM) attack is when an attacker secretly intercepts and manipulates communication between two parties, compromising sensitive information.

Multicast

Multicast is a method of communication that allows a single message to be sent to multiple recipients simultaneously.

MX record

An MX record, which stands for Mail Exchange record, is a type of DNS record that specifies the mail server responsible for receiving email messages on behalf of a domain.

n

Nameserver

A nameserver, also known as a DNS server, maps domain names to their corresponding IP addresses so users can access websites and other online services easily.

NAPTR Record

A NAPTR record is a type of DNS record that is used to map one domain name to another domain name or information about a service available on a domain.

Net Neutrality

Net neutrality ensures equal access to online content, promotes competition and innovation, and protects freedom of speech on the internet.

Network Address Translation (NAT)

Network address translation (NAT) is a process used in computer networking to modify network address information in the IP header of packets while they are in transit across a network.

Network Security

Network security refers to the measures and practices put in place to protect a computer network from unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or denial of service.

New gTLD

A new gTLD is a gTLD that was introduced after 2012. In the early 2010s, ICANN, the authority that oversees domains, launched a program to introduce more gTLDs to the Internet.

o

Organization Validation (OV) SSL Certificate

OV certificates are the right choice for small 0 to medium-sized businesses that process any kind of customer data on their websites, such as personal information, payment details, or passwords.

p

pendingDelete

pendingDelete is a domain status code that signifies that a domain is marked for deletion and will soon be purged from the registry database, becoming available for re-registration.

pendingRenew

The domain status code "pendingRenew" indicates that a request to renew the domain registration is currently being processed.

pendingTransfer

pendingTransfer is a domain status code that indicates that a domain transfer is in progress.

pendingUpdate

The domain status code pendingUpdate indicates that a request to update a domain's information, such as contact details, nameservers, or other registration data, is currently being processed.

Penetration Testing

Penetration testing, or pen testing, is a proactive cybersecurity approach to identifying vulnerabilities in IT systems and networks to prevent cyber attacks.

Phishing Protection

Phishing protection refers to the measures and strategies put in place to prevent individuals and organizations from falling victim to phishing attacks.

Plesk

Plesk is a web hosting control panel that simplifies website and server management.

Plesk License

A Plesk license is a legal agreement that gives users the right to use Plesk’s software on their servers.

Premium DNS

Premium DNS is an enhanced DNS service that provides your server with higher speed, security, and reliability.

Primary DNS

Primary DNS, also known as authoritative DNS, translates domain names into IP addresses and directs internet traffic.

Private Domain Registration

Private domain registration is a service offered by domain registrars to shield the personal information of domain owners from being publicly accessible in the Whois database.

PTR Record

A PTR record, also known as a Pointer record, is a type of DNS record that is used to map an IP address to a domain name.

r

Redemption Period

The redemption period is a specific timeframe in the domain lifecycle that occurs after a domain name expires.

Registrar Accreditation

Registrar accreditation is a critical process in the domain name industry that ensures that domain registrars adhere to specific standards, set by organizations like ICANN and the registries of individual ccTLDs.

Registrar Lock

A registrar lock, also known as a domain lock or transfer lock, is a security feature provided by domain registrars to prevent unauthorized transfers of domain names.

Reverse DNS Lookup

Reverse DNS Lookup, also known as Reverse DNS Resolution, is a process that involves querying the DNS to retrieve the domain name associated with an IP address.

s

S/MIME

An S/MIME certificate is a type of digital signature certificate for secure email communications that is particularly used in business environments.

Second-Level Domain

A second-level domain is located directly “below” a top-level domain. For example, many British web addresses end in .co.uk rather than in just .uk.

Secondary DNS

Secondary DNS is a critical component of the DNS infrastructure that provides redundancy and improves the reliability and availability of a website or online service.

Security Audit

A security audit is a comprehensive assessment of an organization's security measures, policies, and procedures to identify potential vulnerabilities and risks.

SEO Hosting

SEO hosting refers to a type of web hosting service that is specifically designed to enhance a website's SEO efforts.

Server Security

Server security refers to the measures taken to protect a server from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats.

serverDeleteProhibited

The serverDeleteProhibited status code prevents a domain from being deleted at the server level, ensuring protection against accidental or unauthorized deletions.

serverHold

serverHold is a domain status code set by the registry to indicate a domain that was made inactive, often due to administrative, legal, or payment problems.

serverRenewProhibited

The serverRenewProhibited status code indicates that a domain cannot be renewed through regular automated processes, as it was blocked from being renewed by the domain registry.

serverTransferProhibited

The serverTransferProhibited domain status code indicates that a domain cannot be transferred from one registrar to another, providing an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized transfers and domain hijacking.

serverUpdateProhibited

serverUpdateProhibited is a domain status code that restricts updates at the server level to protect the domain from unauthorized changes, such as hijacking or transfers.

SOA Record

A SOA (Start of Authority) record is a record that defines the authoritative information about a DNS zone.

SpamExperts

SpamExperts is a spam filtering solution designed to protect you from spam, viruses, and other malicious email content.

SPF Record

SPF record is an email authentication protocol that defines which servers and domains have your consent to send emails on your behalf.

SPF Record Null Value

When it comes to SPF records, a null value is an explicit declaration that no mail should be sent from the domain.

SRV Record

An SRV (Service) Record is a type of DNS record that specifies the hostname and port number of servers for specific services within a domain.

SSL

SSL is a security protocol that ensures data transmitted between your device and a website remains private and secure.

SSL Certificate

SSL certificates are digital certificates that provide a secure and encrypted connection between a web server and a user's web browser.

sTLD

Sponsored top-level domains (sTLDs) are top-level domains sponsored by private agencies and organizations.

Subdomain

A subdomain is a part of a larger domain name in the DNS hierarchy. Subdomains are commonly used to organize and categorize website content, creating a more structured hierarchy within a website's overall architecture.

Sunrise Phase

The Sunrise Phase is the first launch phase of a new gTLD. This phase offers a first opportunity for trademark owners to secure domain names matching their trademarks within the recently launched new gTLD.

t

Top-Level Domain (TLD)

A top-level domain (TLD) is the last part of a website's address, right after the final dot A well-known TLD is .com.

Trademark Clearinghouse

The Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) is a centralized database of registered trademarks within the domain industry.

Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a cryptographic protocol that provides secure communication over a network, typically the internet.

TTL (Time To Live)

Time To Live (TTL) is a critical aspect of DNS management, determining how long a DNS record remains cached on resolving name servers.

TXT record

A TXT record stores text information for a domain in the DNS. These records can serve various purposes, such as domain ownership verification and email authentication.

Typosquatting

Typosquatting is a phenomenon in which malicious actors create websites with slight misspellings of popular domain names to deceive users.

u

Unicast

Unicast is a type of data transmission in computer networking where a single source sends data to a specific destination.

Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP)

The UDRP is a policy established by ICANN to resolve disputes between domain name owners and third parties over trademark rights.

URL Forwarding

URL forwarding, also known as domain forwarding, is the process of redirecting a website visitor from one URL to another.

v

Vulnerability Assessment

A vulnerability assessment is a systematic process of identifying, quantifying, and prioritizing vulnerabilities within an organization's systems, networks, and applications.

w

Web Hosting Control Panel

A web hosting control panel works as an intermediary between system services and administrators. We can automate daily tasks by using a web hosting control panel.

Website Migration

Website migration is the process of transferring a website from one host or platform to another.

WHMCS

WHMCS is a software platform that helps streamline and automate the various aspects of running a web hosting business.

Whois Database

The Whois is a publicly accessible database that stores information about all registered domain names and their owners.

Whois Lookup

A Whois lookup refers to the action of looking up a particular domain name in the Whois database. Performing a Whois lookup allows you to search for and access the registration details of a domain, including the owner's personal information.

Whois Privacy

Whois privacy is a service that allows domain owners to keep their personal contact information hidden from public view in the Whois database.

Wildcard SSL Certificate

A wildcard SSL certificate is an SSL certificate that covers all of the subdomains under the main domain name that you order the certificate for.

z

Zone Transfer

Zone transfer is a critical process in domain management and DNS administration, allowing DNS information to be replicated across multiple servers for consistency and reliability.

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