IPS TAG

The IPS TAG is a unique identifier used by the .uk registry (Nominet) to associate a domain with a particular registrar.

More about IPS TAGS

The IPS (Internet Provider Security) tag is used primarily for domain transfers and represents the registrar or domain provider to which a .uk domain is registered. It helps facilitate the transfer of .uk domains between registrars within the Nominet registry, which manages .uk domains. Here’s more information about IPS tags in the context of .uk domains:

1. Registrar Identification: An IPS tag is a short alphanumeric code assigned to each accredited registrar or domain provider that offers .uk domain registration services. Each registrar has its unique IPS tag, which serves as an identifier within the Nominet registry.
2. Domain Transfer Process: When a domain owner wishes to transfer their .uk domain from one registrar to another, they need to provide the new registrar’s IPS tag. This process ensures that the transfer request is directed to the correct registrar for processing.
3. Initiating a Transfer: To initiate a transfer, the domain owner typically contacts the new registrar (the one they want to transfer the domain to) and provides the IPS tag associated with that registrar. The new registrar then initiates the transfer process with Nominet using the provided tag.
4. Transfer Confirmation: Once Nominet receives the transfer request with the correct IPS tag, it notifies the current registrar (the one the domain is leaving) about the impending transfer. The current registrar has the option to acknowledge or reject the transfer request.
5. Completion of Transfer: If the current registrar acknowledges the transfer request, Nominet processes the transfer, and the domain is moved to the new registrar’s control. This typically involves updating the DNS settings and registrant details to reflect the new registrar’s information.
6. Changing Registrars: Domain owners may choose to transfer their .uk domains between registrars for various reasons, such as better pricing, different services, or customer support. The IPS tag ensures a secure and controlled process for such transfers.
7. Registrar Authorization: To obtain an IPS tag for a specific registrar, a domain provider must be accredited by Nominet to offer .uk domain registration services. Accreditation involves meeting certain requirements and complying with Nominet’s policies.
8. Security Measures: The use of IPS tags helps prevent unauthorized transfers of .uk domains and ensures that transfer requests are processed only when the domain owner explicitly intends to change registrars.
9. IPS Tag Format: An IPS tag typically consists of a short combination of letters and numbers unique to each registrar. For example, a registrar’s IPS tag might be “XYZ123.”

It’s important to note that IPS tags are specific to the .uk domain space and may not be relevant for other domain extensions like .com or .org. If you own a .uk domain and wish to transfer it to a different registrar, you should contact your new registrar to obtain their IPS tag and follow their instructions for initiating the transfer.