Overview
The RRoLR (Registrar of Last Resort) is an ICANN domain registration continuity mechanism. When an ICANN-accredited registrar exits the market due to business issues, the RRoLR temporarily takes over its managed domains, keeping DNS resolution, renewals, and key functions uninterrupted. This role is currently served by the ICANN-designated entity Iron Mountain, helping domain holders transfer smoothly to a new registrar.
Key Strengths
- Domain Continuity: Domains are not lost when a registrar exits.
- Automatic Takeover: Intervenes after registrar exit to protect holders.
- Temporary Management: Maintains DNS and renewals for affected domains.
- Orderly Transfer Assistance: Helps holders transfer to any ICANN-accredited registrar.
Product Ecosystem
Domain Takeover Mechanism
Temporarily takes over domains on registrar exit for continuity.
Holder Assistance
Verifies identity and authorization by email, guiding transfers.
Transfer Support
Facilitates transfer to a new ICANN-accredited registrar (typically 5-14 days).
Continuity Assurance
Serves as the "last line of defense" against registrar exit risk.
Limitations
- Not a Regular Service: The RRoLR is not a daily domain registrar and does no marketing.
- Only on Exit: Does not manage domains during normal operation.
- No Building/Hosting: No website building or hosting services.
Use Cases
- Registrar Exit Protection (★★★★★): When an upstream registrar exits, the RRoLR ensures domains are not lost—see ICANN domain registration security policy.
- Domain Asset Protection (★★★★★): A risk backstop for enterprises and investors holding many domains.
- Daily Domain Management (★): Not for daily use; choose a reliable registrar instead.
Pricing
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Takeover Service | Covered by the ICANN mechanism, no extra charge to holders |
| Domain Transfer | Per new registrar pricing |
| Renewal | Handled per the original renewal cycle |
The RRoLR is a safeguard mechanism without regular pricing—see the domain registrar selection guide.
FAQ
- Can I still use my domain normally during RRoLR takeover? Yes. The RRoLR maintains DNS resolution, renewals, and basic management during the takeover period—see ICANN domain registration security policy.
- How do I transfer my domain after RRoLR takeover? ICANN contacts holders by email with identity verification and authorization steps. After verification, transfer to any ICANN-accredited registrar, typically taking 5-14 days—see the domain transfer guide.
- How is RRoLR different from a regular registrar? The RRoLR is not a conventional provider but an ICANN emergency safety mechanism, with no marketing or hosting services, only stepping in when a registrar exits—see the domain registrar selection guide.