A domain name is your identity on the internet. For example, yourbusiness.lk.
But a domain name does not last forever. It follows a clear lifecycle from registration to expiration.
Let’s explain how the .LK domain lifecycle works in simple terms.
Here is a simple and easy-to-understand explanation of the domain lifecycle, explained step by step.

  1. Available – Ready to Register

Before you own a domain, it is in the Available stage.

This means:

  • The domain is not registered by anyone

  • Anyone can register it on a first-come, first-served basis

  • You can check domain availability using the domain search tool on registerhere.lk, where you can instantly see whether a domain name is free and ready to register.

  1. Registration – You Become the Owner

Once you register a domain through registerhere.lk, you become the official owner for a selected period.

Most domains can be registered for 1 to 10 years.

During this period:

  • Your website works normally

  • Emails linked to the domain function properly

  • You can manage DNS settings

  • You can renew the domain at any time before expiry

  1. Active Period – Your Domain Works Normally

The time between registration and the expiry date is called the Active Period.

As long as the domain is active:

  • Your website stays online

  • Your business or personal emails work

  • You have full control over domain settings

This is the longest and safest stage of the domain lifecycle.

  1. Expiration – When You Miss the Renewal Date

Every domain has an expiry date.

If you forget to renew before this date:

  • Your website may stop loading

  • Domain-based emails may stop working

  • You may temporarily lose control of the domain

Registrars usually send renewal reminders, so it’s very important to keep your contact details updated in your registerhere.lk account.

  1. Grace Period – Second Chance to Renew

After expiry, most domains enter a Grace Period.

This period usually lasts a 90 days, depending on the domain extension.

During the grace period:

  • The domain is not deleted for others

  • No one else can register it

You can still renew it, but you must pay a redemption (late) fee in addition to the normal renewal cost.

This stage is expensive, so it’s always better to renew before reaching redemption.

  1. Pending Delete – Final Stage

Once the Grace period ends, the domain moves to Pending Delete status.

During this time:

  • The domain cannot be renewed

  • Recovery is not possible

The registry prepares the domain for deletion

  1. Available Again – Anyone Can Register It

After deletion, the domain becomes available again.

This means:

  • Anyone can register the domain

  • You may permanently lose your brand name

  • Someone else could use your domain

This is why timely renewal is critical.

Why Timely Renewal Is Important

  • Website downtime - When your domain expires, your website may stop working. Visitors will not be able to access your site.

  • Loss of emails - Email addresses linked to your domain (like [email protected]) may stop receiving or sending emails.

  • Damage to your brand and SEO - An expired domain can reduce search engine rankings and make your business look unprofessional or unreliable.

  • Someone else registering your domain - If the domain is released, another person or company can register it, and you may permanently lose your domain name.

That’s why it’s important to renew your domain on time and use a reliable domain registrar that provides renewal reminders and customer support like registerhere.lk

That’s why it’s important to use a reliable domain registrar that provides reminders and support.

Tips to Avoid Losing Your Domain

Follow these simple best practices:

  • Enable auto-renewal

  • Use a valid email address for renewal alerts

  • Renew early — don’t wait until the last day

  • Keep your contact and billing details updated on registerhere.lk

Conclusion

Understanding the domain lifecycle helps you protect your online identity. From the moment a domain becomes available to the time it expires and may be deleted, every stage matters.

By renewing on time, enabling auto-renewal, and keeping your details updated on registerhere.lk, you can ensure your domain stays safe, active, and fully under your control.