A domain registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names on behalf of customers (registrants) for specific top-level domains (TLDs). Registrars connect you to the appropriate registry operator (which runs the TLD, like .com) and keep your registration data synced with the registry.
Quick comparison:
- Registrant = the person or organization that holds the domain name.
- Registrar = the retailer that sells and manages your domain registration.
- Registry = the operator that maintains the authoritative database and DNS zone for a TLD.
What is a domain registrant?
A domain registrant is the individual or organization that registers a domain name and is listed as the domain’s holder in the registration data. The registrant can manage settings such as contact details, name servers, DNS records, and privacy options through their registrar. When changes are made, the registrar transmits authorized updates to the registry so the registry’s database stays accurate.
What a domain registrar is
A domain registrar connects the registrant with the appropriate domain registry for the chosen TLD. Only ICANN‑accredited registrars can sell most generic TLDs (gTLDs). Many registrars also bundle helpful services, such as DNS management, WHOIS/RDAP privacy, email forwarding, web hosting, or SSL certificates. When evaluating a registrar, consider that each provider packages and prices services differently.
Roles of domain registrars
A registrar’s core role is to accept domain orders, relay create/renew/transfer requests to the correct registry, and keep registration data synchronized per policy. A registrar pays registry fees for each domain name registration, renewal, or transfer handled through their service.
Dispute handling: rights disputes (for example, over trademarks) are resolved under ICANN’s UDRP/URS by accredited dispute providers. Registrars comply with the resulting decisions but do not decide disputes themselves.
Data access: registration data is accessed via RDAP under ICANN’s Registration Data Policy (RDAP has largely replaced legacy WHOIS for modern queries). Registrars implement appropriate disclosure and privacy controls consistent with policy and law.
Security and account control: reputable registrars offer two‑factor authentication (2FA), account‑level locks, authorization codes (EPP/Auth‑Info), and a registrar lock (clientTransferProhibited) to help prevent unauthorized changes. These features, along with DNSSEC support where offered, help protect your domain.
What a domain registry is
A domain registry (registry operator) runs a top‑level domain’s authoritative database and DNS zone files. Examples include the operator of .com and .net, and the operator of .org. The registry processes create, renew, update, and transfer operations via accredited registrars according to ICANN and registry policies. Control changes (such as contact updates or transfers) require properly authorized requests routed through the registrar.
Differences between domain registry, registrar and a registrant
It is essential to distinguish these roles so you know who does what:
- The domain registrant is the person or company recorded as the holder of a domain name.
- The domain registrar sells the domain and manages registration records and settings for the registrant.
- The domain registry operates the TLD’s authoritative database and DNS zone and works through accredited registrars.
Conclusion
There is more to a domain name than just the label you type into a browser. Understanding the registrant, registrar, and registry helps you choose the right partner and keep your domain secure and reachable worldwide.
How transfers generally work: unlock the domain at your current registrar, obtain the authorization (EPP) code, initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar, and confirm requests sent to your contacts where applicable. Note that domains are often subject to a standard 60‑day lock after creation or contact changes, and a registrar lock can block transfers until you disable it.
How to choose a registrar (quick checklist): transparent pricing for registration and renewals, ICANN accreditation, the TLDs you need, intuitive DNS management, optional email/hosting, privacy options, security (2FA, DNSSEC, account/transfer locks), responsive support, and clear transfer policies. When ready, you can own a domain with a provider that meets these criteria and manage it confidently over time.
