How to Transfer a Domain Away from NameSilo
This guide explains the exact steps required to transfer a domain from NameSilo to another registrar. The process is standard across most TLDs and can be completed in a few minutes once the required actions are taken.
Before You Start
Before initiating a transfer, confirm the following:
- The domain is active or in the expired grace period status (not pending deletion)
- The domain was not registered or transferred within the last 60 days (ICANN restriction)
- You have access to the administrative email address listed on the domain
If these conditions are met, you can proceed.
Step 1: Unlock the Domain
Domains must be unlocked before they can be transferred.
- Log in to your NameSilo account
- Go to the Domain Manager
- Check the box next to the domain you want to transfer
- From the action menu, select Unlock Domains
- Click Submit to apply the change
Once unlocked, the domain is eligible for transfer.
Step 2: Retrieve the Authorization (EPP) Code
The EPP code (also called an authorization code) is required by the gaining registrar to initiate the transfer.
For Active Domains
- Go to the Domain Manager
- Click the domain name (underlined in black)
- Locate Authorization Code section under Transfer & Lock
- Click Send Email
The EPP code will be sent to the Admin email address on file.
For Expired Domains
Authorization codes for expired domains are retrieved via CSV export.
- Go to the Domain Manager
- Select the checkbox next to the domain
- Click the CSV download icon at the top of the page
- Confirm the popup
- Open the downloaded file using Excel or a text editor
The authorization code will be included in the CSV file.
Important Notes About Authorization Codes
- All NameSilo authorization codes fully comply with registry specifications
- Codes are case-sensitive and must be entered exactly as provided
- Copy-paste issues or email formatting can alter the code
If the gaining registrar reports the code as invalid, the issue is almost always caused by:
- A typo or missing character
- Email client formatting changes
- A system issue on the gaining registrar's side
In such cases, re-copy the code carefully and try again. If the issue persists, you can reset the code selecting the Reset Auth Code option under the Transfer & Lock section.
Step 3: Initiate the Transfer at the New Registrar
Once you have:
- Unlocked the domain
- Retrieved the EPP code
Go to the registrar you are transferring to and start the transfer process. When prompted, enter the authorization (EPP) code exactly as provided by NameSilo.
Step 4: Approve the Transfer Out
After the gaining registrar submits the transfer request:
- You may receive an email asking you to cancel the transfer in case it was not initiated by you
- You will also see the transfer listed in your Transfer Manager inside NameSilo
- Approve the transfer when prompted
Once approved, the transfer will proceed and complete within 30 minutes to 1 hour. Most transfers complete within 5–7 days automatically, depending on the registry.
Summary
To transfer a domain away from NameSilo:
- Unlock the domain in the Domain Manager
- Retrieve the authorization (EPP) code
- Start the transfer at the new registrar using the EPP code
- Approve the transfer when prompted
Following these steps ensures a smooth and uninterrupted domain transfer.
If you encounter issues at any stage, double-check the domain status, email access, and accuracy of the authorization code before contacting support.