porkbun domain

Registering a domain name looks simple on the surface, but once you actually start, the fine print matters. A lot. Whether you’re launching your first blog, building an ecommerce store, or managing dozens of client websites, understanding Porkbun Domain Requirements can save you time, money, and frustration later.

Porkbun has built a reputation as a no-nonsense, developer-friendly domain registrar with transparent pricing and strong privacy features. Still, like every ICANN-accredited registrar, it has specific rules you must follow. Some are obvious. Others can trip you up if you’re not paying attention.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Porkbun domain rules in plain English. No fluff. No legal jargon overload. Just clear explanations, practical examples, and insider tips from someone who’s been around domains long enough to make every mistake at least once.

What Is Porkbun and Why It Matters for Domain Buyers

Before diving into the technical stuff, let’s set the stage.

Porkbun is an ICANN-accredited domain registrar known for affordable domain pricing, free WHOIS privacy, and a clean, user-friendly dashboard. It supports hundreds of domain extensions, including popular TLDs like .com, .net, .org, and newer gTLDs like .tech, .online, and .store.

However, choosing Porkbun doesn’t exempt you from domain regulations. Porkbun Domain Requirements exist to ensure compliance with global domain policies, registry rules, and security standards.

Understanding these requirements helps you:

Avoid failed domain registrations
Prevent unexpected domain suspensions
Ensure smooth domain transfers
Maintain long-term domain ownership

Basic Porkbun Domain Requirements Explained

Let’s start with the fundamentals. These are the minimum conditions you must meet to register a domain through Porkbun.

Eligibility to Register a Domain

Most domain extensions sold by Porkbun are available to anyone worldwide. However, some country-code domains have restrictions.

Common eligibility factors include:

Legal age to enter a contract in your country
Accurate personal or business information
Compliance with registry-specific rules

For example, some ccTLDs require local presence, residency, or documentation. Porkbun clearly displays these restrictions during checkout.

Accurate Registrant Information Is Mandatory

One of the most important Porkbun Domain Requirements is providing accurate WHOIS information.

You’ll need to submit:

Full legal name or business name
Valid email address
Physical mailing address
Phone number

This information is required under ICANN regulations. Even if you use WHOIS privacy, Porkbun still needs correct data on file.

Providing false information can result in:

Domain suspension
Loss of ownership
Failed transfers or renewals

Email Verification Requirement

After registration, Porkbun sends a verification email to confirm your contact details. If you ignore this step, your domain may be temporarily disabled.

This verification process ensures compliance with ICANN’s WHOIS Accuracy Program.

Domain Extensions and Registry-Specific Rules

Not all domain names follow the same rules. One overlooked aspect of Porkbun Domain Requirements is that each domain extension is governed by its own registry.

Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs)

Popular extensions like:

.com
.net
.org
.info

Have minimal restrictions. Anyone can register them as long as the domain name is available.

Country-Code Top-Level Domains (ccTLDs)

Country-specific domains like:

May have additional requirements such as:

Citizenship or residency
Local business registration
Administrative contact in the country

Porkbun lists these requirements clearly before purchase, but it’s still your responsibility to comply.

Premium and Reserved Domains

Some domains are labeled as premium by the registry. These often cost more and may have special renewal pricing.

Reserved names, including trademark-protected or restricted terms, cannot be registered at all.

Porkbun Domain Requirements for Transfers

Already own a domain and want to move it to Porkbun? Transfers come with their own set of rules.

Domain Age Requirement

Your domain must be at least 60 days old. This is an ICANN-mandated lock period that applies across all registrars.

Domain Lock Status

Before initiating a transfer, you must:

Unlock the domain at your current registrar
Disable transfer protection

Failing to do so will cause the transfer to fail.

Authorization Code (EPP Code)

You’ll need an authorization code from your existing registrar. This code proves you’re the rightful domain owner.

Valid Contact Email

Transfer approval emails are sent to the registrant email address. If that email is outdated, your transfer could stall or fail.

WHOIS Privacy and Data Protection Rules

One reason many people choose Porkbun is free WHOIS privacy. Still, privacy does not remove your obligations under Porkbun Domain Requirements.

How WHOIS Privacy Works

WHOIS privacy masks your personal details from public databases. Instead of your real contact information, generic proxy data is displayed.

However:

Porkbun still stores your real information internally
You must keep that information accurate and updated

GDPR and Data Compliance

Porkbun complies with GDPR and other data protection regulations. This affects how personal data is stored, displayed, and processed, especially for EU residents.

Payment and Billing Requirements

Domains aren’t free, and payment rules are another key part of Porkbun Domain Requirements.

Accepted Payment Methods

Porkbun typically accepts:

Credit and debit cards
PayPal
Account balance credits

Payments must clear successfully before domain registration is finalized.

Auto-Renewal Settings

If you enable auto-renewal, you must ensure:

A valid payment method is on file
Sufficient balance is available

Expired domains can be lost permanently if not renewed on time.

Refund Policy Considerations

Some domain extensions are non-refundable once registered. Always check the refund eligibility before completing your purchase.

Domain Usage Policies You Must Follow

Registering a domain does not give you unlimited freedom. Usage policies apply.

Prohibited Activities

Under Porkbun Domain Requirements and registry rules, you cannot use domains for:

Malware distribution
Phishing or fraud
Spam campaigns
Copyright infringement
Illegal marketplaces

Violations can result in immediate suspension without refund.

Content Responsibility

You are responsible for all content hosted under your domain, even if a third party manages the website.

DNS, Nameservers, and Technical Setup Rules

Porkbun offers flexible DNS management, but there are still technical expectations.

Nameserver Configuration

You can use:

Porkbun’s default nameservers
Custom nameservers
Third-party DNS providers

Incorrect DNS setup can cause downtime, email failures, or security issues.

DNSSEC Support

Porkbun supports DNSSEC for added security. While optional, enabling DNSSEC requires correct configuration to avoid resolution errors.

Renewal, Expiration, and Grace Period Rules

Another critical area where people slip up is domain renewal.

Domain Expiration Timeline

Once a domain expires:

It enters a grace period
Late renewal fees may apply
The domain may eventually be released to the public

Each extension has different grace and redemption periods.

Redemption and Recovery

Recovering an expired domain during redemption often costs significantly more than a standard renewal. Prevention is always cheaper.

Business and Bulk Domain Registration Considerations

If you’re managing domains for clients or operating at scale, Porkbun Domain Requirements still apply, but with a few added layers.

Bulk Registration Rules

Porkbun allows bulk registrations, but you must:

Ensure accurate WHOIS data for each domain
Monitor expiration dates individually
Follow registry-specific limits

Reseller and Client Management

If you’re registering domains for others, you remain responsible unless ownership is properly transferred.

Common Mistakes That Violate Porkbun Domain Requirements

Even experienced users make mistakes. Here are some common ones to avoid:

Using fake contact information
Ignoring verification emails
Forgetting renewal dates
Misunderstanding ccTLD restrictions
Assuming WHOIS privacy replaces legal accuracy

Avoiding these errors keeps your domains safe and operational.

How Porkbun Compares to Other Registrars

While every registrar follows ICANN rules, Porkbun stands out for:

Transparent pricing
Free WHOIS privacy
Simple control panel
Responsive customer support

Still, the same fundamental domain obligations apply regardless of where you register.

Final Thoughts on Porkbun Domain Requirements

Understanding Porkbun Domain Requirements isn’t about memorizing rules. It’s about protecting your digital assets. Domains are often the foundation of a brand, a business, or a long-term project. Losing one due to a technical oversight or ignored email can be costly and stressful.

By providing accurate information, respecting registry policies, managing renewals carefully, and using your domain responsibly, you can enjoy everything Porkbun offers without headaches.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who’s about to register their first domain or managing multiple websites. And if you have questions or personal experiences with Porkbun, your insights could help others make smarter decisions.