What is an EPP or Auth Code and How Can You Use It?

Sometimes we need to transfer our website domain, whether due to security or user experience factors, or simply to save on the cost of running a website.

To transfer domains between registrars, an EPP code is required.

But what is an EPP code?

In this article, KnownHost explains what an EPP code is, why it’s essential to the secure transfer of domains – and when the best time to use an EPP code is.

What Is an EPP or Domain Authorization Code?

An Extensible Provisioning Protocol (EPP) code – also known as an authorization code or transfer code – is a unique alphanumeric string used to authorize the secure transfer of domain names between registrars.

It is a security protocol used to prevent the unauthorized transfer of domain names, fraud, and domain name theft.

When a domain owner wishes to transfer a domain name to another registrar, they must request an EPP code from their current registrar and provide it to the new one during the transfer process.

Why Do I Need an EPP Code?

An EPP code is required to successfully transfer a domain from one registrar to another.

The code serves as a security identifier to ensure that only the legitimate owner of the domain can initiate its transfer.

It ensures that a domain transfer is authorized by the domain owner, and not a third party, to avoid false or fraudulent transfer attempts and prevent unauthorized access to the domain by malicious actors.

Providing an EPP code to a registrar means a domain owner is providing consent for their domain to be transferred – allowing them to offer additional migration assistance.

How Does an EPP Code Contribute to Domain Security?

Extensible Provisioning Protocol contributes to domain security by acting as a secure verification mechanism during the transfer process, providing:

• Ownership Verification: An EPP code ensures that only the domain owner can initiate the transfer.
• Authorization Requirement: An EPP code is required before registrars can allow the domain to be transferred from one registrar to another.
• Secure Communication: An EPP code is shared between registrars through a secured channel such as an encrypted email.
• Time-Limited Validity: An EPP code often has a limited validity, meaning that, once a code expires, a new one must be generated to complete any domain transfers.

When to Use an EPP Code

There are several scenarios in which an EPP would be required, including:

• Domain Transfer: If a domain transfer is needed, the domain owner will need to provide the new registrar with an EPP code.
• Registrar Change: An EPP code is also needed when switching registrars, not just domains.
• Domain Recovery: If a user has lost control of their domain, an EPP can be used to demonstrate an owner’s credentials to regain control of their domain.

Knownhost offers fully managed assistance and support during domain registration – making it effortless to transfer your domain or register with us. We offer no hidden charges or fees during domain registration – with competitive pricing to match.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How Do I Find My EPP Code?

A: To find an EPP code, a domain owner will need to contact the domain registrar and request the code. Generally, it can be found in the domain owner’s account settings and can also be provided to a domain owner via customer support.

Q: What is an EPP Code?

A: An EPP code is an alphanumeric code required to successfully request a domain transfer or domain recovery from a registrar. It’s also used to verify that a domain owner is making any of these requests – and not a fraudulent or malicious actor.

Q: What Is an Example of an EPP code?

A: An EPP code is an alphanumeric string. However, this code can look slightly different depending on the registrar. An example of an EPP code would be ‘ABC123XYZ456’.

Q: Is an EPP Code the Same as a Domain Password?

A: No, an EPP code is not the same as a domain password. An EPP code is used for the secure transfer of domains between registrars, while a domain password (or domain management password) is simply used to access and manage domain settings within a registrar’s account.

Q: How Many Digits is an EPP Code?

A: The alphanumeric string of digits that make up an EPP code can vary in style and format depending on the registrar. However, they usually range between 6 to 16 individual digits and include a combination of numbers and letters.