FutureQuest and Dotster Dropping the Ball On Us - If You Use Dotster Check Your Info!

[johnfl68]

On a side note, those looking for other options, I migrated my domains to Hover.com starting almost 2 years ago, and now all of them are there.

I have had no problems and no complaints, except for they communicate about upcoming renewals (even if automatic) a bit too much. But perhaps that is in response to other registrars not being as responsive in that matter.

You always get a real person answering the phone, 8-8 (ET) M-F, and they are very quick to respond to any questions on the phone or via email.

I use Google Calender for most things now, so I also put in expiration reminders there that remind me 30 days before expiration, to check up on each domain (set up to repeat annually - so you only have to enter them once - unless Google goes out of business ).

I wish you the best of luck Jeff, in that your problem is resolved soon.

John

[Bob]

Originally Posted by johnfl68

I use Google Calender for most things now, so I also put in expiration reminders there that remind me 30 days before expiration, to check up on each domain (set up to repeat annually - so you only have to enter them once - unless Google goes out of business ).

Google calendar for reminders is a great idea and I would recommend this for anyone that owns a domain. I would never rely only on a registrar to email you, there are far too many issues that can interfere with that, filters, getting missed in the hustle and bustle of the day and the biggie, wrong email address.

You may be surprised at how many times we have seen a client experience an expired domain situation because the email address listed for their Domain Registration is no longer valid.

If you haven't checked your Domain Registration details recently I strongly urge you to check them and make sure all contact information is up to date.

I also use an additional tool, a small program made by Softnik Technologies,
Domain Status Reporter.
http://www.domainpunch.com/domain-status-reporter/

I have a reminder set to check the status of my Domain Registrations monthly and can see at glance when renewals are coming up.

-Bob

[esllou]

I never let any of my domains go to less than a year left. Yes, a year! Domains are the heart and soul of any web business you have. Far far far more important than even hosting.

I just found a voucher for the registrar I use (directnic) and went and added another year on top of all my names even though they weren't expiring until mid-2013 at the soonest. I'm totally paranoid when it comes to domain names, but I think it's safer to be like that.

I really hope you sort out your issues.

[Wassercrats]

I don't like auto-renewal because I don't want my credit card number in my registrar's records. My registrar has a box to check if you don't want them to keep you credit card number in their records. Now I'm using that free email program that comes with Win 7 Home. I wrote a VBS that opens it when I boot up and presses the right keys to get to a full-screen calendar where I see my notes for the month.