WHOIS
Search the WHOIS database
to find information about a web domain.
Availability check
Discover the availability of a domain name by adding it to the WHOIS search field provided by NAV — we will inform you accordingly, depending on the extension, whether the domain is available or not.
Information about the domain
Whether you want to buy a domain or just find information about it, use NAV WHOIS. We will display domain information such as registration and renewal dates, whether it is online and details about the owner.
Expiration timeline
If a domain is registered but you still want to buy it, it is useful to know when it expires. We display the expiration timeline of a domain in four simple steps with information and data according to each domain extension.
What we can do for you and what you can do using NAV WHOIS
The NAV WHOIS service is designed to help users who want information about domains by searching the WHOIS database. Information is displayed in real time, reflecting the domain's status, registration date or availability. Additionally, depending on the registry or registrar, certain owner information, contact data and other important information will be displayed.
You can buy the domain even if it is already owned
Is the searched domain already registered? It should not be a problem. A NAV broker can contact the owner to negotiate a possible sale of the domain in your favor. For details, use the contact methods available on our website.
Your Question, Our Answer
What is the WHOIS database?
The WHOIS database is a list of all registered domains and is regularly used for various legal purposes. Network administrators use WHOIS lookup to identify and resolve potential issues. For example, WHOIS information can be used to check the availability of domain names, to identify trademark infringement and to keep correct data on domain name registrants.
WHOIS verification can even be used to combat spam or fraud, as administrators can detect entries that post illegal content. Additionally, ICANN agreements protect domain applicants by prohibiting the use of WHOIS listings for marketing or spam purposes, including high-volume automated queries against a specific registry or registry system — except where such queries are made with the intention of managing the domain name.
How accurate is WHOIS data?
These data are usually very accurate, but registrants' contact data can change. Registries, for example NAV, make considerable efforts to keep data correct and provide domain owners with the opportunity to review and update their data for the domains registered in the WHOIS database. According to ICANN rules, refusal to update this information or providing false data can lead to suspension or cancellation of the domain.
In addition, ICANN allows internet users to file complaints if they discover incorrect or incomplete data when searching a domain in the WHOIS database. In such cases, registrars must correct and verify the data in a timely manner. Through this verification protocol, ICANN tries to maintain the highest possible level of accuracy.
How do I update my WHOIS information?
The procedure to update your own information in the WHOIS database when searching a domain is very easy. You only need to access the NAV client area, the "My Domains" section, and click on "Change contact data". The update can be made simultaneously for multiple domains at once or for just a single web domain. It is important to keep the information up to date, both to comply with ICANN rules and to ensure you receive WHOIS correspondence for your domain name at the correct email address.
Who maintains the WHOIS database?
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is responsible for everything related to a WHOIS lookup. As the internet grew to a point where a formal organization was needed to handle the maintenance and procedures involved in keeping the online world running, ICANN was launched in 1998.
Since 2016, ICANN operates WHOIS verification without supervision by any country and exists today as a nonprofit corporation based in Los Angeles. Through its role in coordinating the internet naming system, ICANN is managed by a 16-member board with representation from around the world that promotes competition and develops policies regarding unique internet identifiers. ICANN also receives contributions from numerous internet-related organizations, such as telecommunications providers.
Why is a WHOIS database necessary?
The ability to find information about domains quickly and accurately is important for several main reasons:
1. A WHOIS check is essential for people who do business selling domains. These business people need a communication method for their transactions. A WHOIS lookup will provide one or more methods to reach the current owner of a web domain.
2. The WHOIS database is a way to maintain accountability for individuals and companies operating online. For example, if you suspect that someone is abusively using trademarks on their website, the WHOIS database provides a series of information that can help resolve a dispute or settle online disagreements.
What can you tell me about confidentiality?
ICANN agreements protect registrants from potential spam. For website owners who would prefer to keep this information private, NAV offers privacy and complete protection services for the domain, so that when a user performs a simple WHOIS check on a domain, we replace personal information with proxy information. When we do this, other data appears, but the domain still belongs to you. Additionally, if you are a web developer, you will have the obligation for your customers to give them a complete sense of confidentiality and protection.