CIRA FAQ

Answers to your most common questions about CIRA.

Quick, simple, and helpful information at a glance.

What is CIRA?
CIRA stands for the Canadian Internet Registration Authority. It is the organization responsible for managing .ca domain names.
Why is my website showing a CIRA error message?
There could be a few reasons for this. It could be a technical issue on CIRA's end, an issue with your domain name settings, or an expired domain name.
How do I fix a CIRA error message?
First, check the status of your domain name by searching it on CIRA's WHOIS database. If it is expired, renew it. If it is active, try clearing your cache and cookies and refreshing the page. If the error still persists, contact CIRA for assistance.
What is a CIRA error code and how do I understand it?
A CIRA error code is a specific number associated with an error message. You can find a list of these error codes and their explanations on CIRA's website.
My website is down and showing a CIRA error message, what should I do?
First, check to see if your domain name is expired or if there are any DNS settings that need to be corrected. If the problem persists, contact CIRA for assistance.
What do I do if I receive a CIRA notification that my domain is in pending delete status?
This means your domain name has expired and has gone through the renewal grace period. It is essential to recover your domain name quickly before it is released to the public for registration.
How do I renew my domain through CIRA?
You can renew your domain through your CIRA account, or contact your domain registrar to assist you with the renewal process.
I'm having difficulty logging into my CIRA account, what should I do?
Make sure you are using the correct login information, and your browser is up to date. If you continue to experience issues, try resetting your password or contact CIRA for assistance.
What happens if I miss the domain renewal deadline?
If you do not renew your domain name before the grace period ends, it will go into a pending delete status and will be released for public registration.
I own a .ca domain, but my website is not working. What could be the problem?
There could be various reasons for this, such as expired hosting, incorrect DNS settings, or technical issues. Contact your hosting provider for assistance in troubleshooting the issue.
How do I transfer my domain name to CIRA?
First, you will need to check if your domain is eligible for transfer to CIRA. Then, follow the steps outlined on CIRA's website to initiate the transfer process.
Can I get a refund if I accidentally renew my domain name more than once?
Yes, you can request a refund for any accidental or duplicate domain renewals. Contact CIRA for assistance in this matter.
Why am I receiving emails from CIRA regarding my domain expiring when I have already renewed it?
This could be a phishing scam. CIRA will never ask for your login details or payment information via email. If you are unsure, contact CIRA's support team for verification.
What is the difference between a domain owner and a domain administrator?
The domain owner is the person or entity who registered the domain with CIRA, whereas the administrator is responsible for managing the domain's technical and administrative settings.
Can I cancel my domain registration with CIRA?
Yes, you can choose not to renew your domain registration with CIRA when it expires. However, you will still need to follow the proper procedures for domain renewal or transfer.
I received a CIRA domain abuse notification, what do I do?
This means that CIRA has received complaints regarding your domain, such as spam or phishing activities. You should review and take necessary action to resolve the issues to avoid suspension of your domain.
What is a WHOIS and how do I use it?
WHOIS is a database that provides information about registered domain names, including ownership information. You can search for your domain on CIRA's WHOIS database to check its status and ownership.
My WHOIS information is incorrect, how can I update it?
You can update your WHOIS information by logging into your CIRA account and making changes to your domain information. Contact your domain registrar for further assistance.
Do I have to be a Canadian resident to register a .ca domain?
No, you do not need to be a Canadian resident to register a .ca domain. However, you must have a Canadian presence, such as a Canadian address or business registration.
What is a domain lock, and how can I unlock my domain?
A domain lock is a security feature that prevents unauthorized transfers of your domain. You can unlock your domain through your CIRA account or by contacting your registrar.
Can I register a .ca domain with special characters?
No, CIRA does not allow the use of special characters in .ca domain names.
How do I report a domain that is being used for fraudulent or illegal activities?
You can report a domain to CIRA's Domain Name Compliance team at [email protected].
I'm receiving a 'server not found' error when accessing my website, what is the cause?
This could be due to a server or hosting issue. Contact your hosting provider for assistance in troubleshooting the issue.
Does CIRA offer website hosting services?
No, CIRA is not a web hosting provider. You will need to find a separate hosting service to host your website.
I'm having difficulty with my domain's DNS settings, who can I contact for help?
You can contact CIRA's Technical Support team for assistance with DNS settings.
What should I do if I believe my website has been hacked and the domain information has been changed?
Immediately contact your hosting provider and CIRA's Support team for assistance. You should also change your login credentials and perform a thorough security scan of your website.
How do I renew my domain after it has expired?
You can renew your domain through your CIRA account or by contacting your domain registrar. Keep in mind that expired domains may be subject to additional fees.