In short: WHOIS is the traditional name for public domain-registration lookup data. Modern services may use RDAP instead, but the purpose is similar: to show details such as the registrar, registration dates, status and authoritative nameservers.
What a lookup normally shows
- The sponsoring registrar.
- Registration, update and expiry dates.
- Domain status codes, including transfer or renewal locks.
- The authoritative nameservers.
- Registry and abuse-contact information.
Why personal details may be hidden
Privacy rules and registry policies mean that personal registrant details are often redacted from public results. This does not mean the domain has no owner; the registrar and registry still retain the registration data required for the domain.
Good to know: A public lookup is useful for diagnosis, but the Virgo Networks Client Area is the authoritative place to review and update domains held in your account.
When to use it
- Check which registrar currently manages a domain.
- Confirm the nameservers and domain status during a transfer.
- Investigate an unexpected expiry or registration state.
- Find the appropriate route for reporting abuse involving a domain.
Lookup services
For most international domains, use ICANN Lookup. For .uk domains, use the Nominet lookup service.
