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A: WHOIS tools are meant to show nameserver / contact information for domain names held by a particular ICANN registrar. They are typical not updated in real-time and thus are not good indicators of current domain registration status.
Q7. How will I know if a Internet domain registration attempt has been successful?
A: WHOIS tool takes anything up to 48 hrs to be updated so can't be relied on. A better indicator is whether you receive a confirmation e-mail from domain registrar. You could also try registering name again. By doing so, registrar will do a "live" availability check on name, which will indicate to you whether name has been registered or not. This is not same as a WHOIS look-up.
Q8. How long do domain names take to be active after registration?
A: Approximately 24 - 48 hrs, though because nameservers work as a distributed network, it can take up to 72 hrs or more before your domain name is accessible to all Internet users worldwide.
Q9. Can I register a Internet domain for later use?
A: There is no problem in registering domain names first, and using them later on. In fact, it is estimated that among 80% to 90% of all domain names are "idle".
Q10. Can I get a refund if I make a mistake & register wrong name?
A: Nearly all domain registrars operate a strict no refund policy. This is because they are charged a non-refundable fee by registry to perform registration.
John Leong is the webmaster at Internet Domain Registration Guide where you will find the latest news and information on domain name registration. John also operates an e-portal for MP3 music lovers at Free MP3 Music Download Directory.