How to Find Expired Domain Names

When you set up a domain name, you only lease it from the company for a period of time. When the lease runs out, you can either renew the name under a new lease or let the name lapse. When the lease expires, the name becomes an expired domain name. Other people can then purchase the expired domain name for their use.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Make a list of names you would like to use. Be creative. Do look for one or two words that you want to include in your domain name that reflect your website. While a .com name is still the most prestigious, you might consider .net, .biz, .info or any of the other extensions available.

2. Check with one of the main registries such as GoDaddy or NameCheap to see if the name is available. If it is a brand-new name, you can lease it and skip the rest of the steps that follow.

3. Compare your list of possible names on Whois.net. Type in one of the key words you chose to use in Step 1. Type that word in the search box labeled "Search Through Deleted Domains." Click "Go."

4. Scan through the list to see if there is a name that appeals to you and would work as your domain name. If you find one you like, click on the link.

5. Purchase the expired domain name if you wish. In that same window, you may also see a list of similar domain names with the different extensions offered.

6. Click on the "Advanced Search" link to help you narrow your search if Step 3 gives you too many options. Put quotation marks around the search words to help you narrow the search even more.