WHOIS Lookup - Domain & IP Registration Data

A WHOIS lookup retrieves registration records for any domain name or IP address — ownership information, registration dates, nameserver configuration, and registrar details. Use robtex.com for due diligence and investigation.

Understanding WHOIS Data

WHOIS is the internet's original registration database. When someone registers a domain or receives an IP allocation, that information enters WHOIS records maintained by registries and registrars.

WHOIS data includes:

  • Registrant information - Who registered the domain (often privacy-protected)
  • Registration dates - When the domain was created, last updated, and expires
  • Nameservers - Authoritative DNS servers for the domain
  • Registrar - The company through which the domain was registered
  • Status codes - Current state (active, locked, pending transfer, etc.)

WHOIS for Domains vs IPs

Domain WHOIS queries registrars and registries managing TLDs. Results vary by TLD - some provide full contact information while others enforce privacy.

IP WHOIS queries regional internet registries (ARIN, RIPE, APNIC, LACNIC, AFRINIC). Results show network allocation, organization, and abuse contacts.

Practical Applications

Domain acquisition - Check registration status, expiration date, and current owner before making purchase offers.

Brand protection - Monitor WHOIS for domains similar to your trademarks. Identify potential cybersquatting or trademark infringement.

Fraud investigation - Recently registered domains are higher risk. WHOIS shows domain age and registration patterns.

Abuse reporting - Find correct contacts for reporting spam, phishing, or other abuse. WHOIS provides registrar and hosting abuse emails.

Privacy Protection and WHOIS

Many registrars offer WHOIS privacy, replacing registrant details with proxy information. GDPR further restricts personal data in WHOIS for EU registrants.

Despite privacy protections, WHOIS still reveals registrar, nameservers, dates, and status - enough for most investigative purposes.

→ Look up WHOIS data on robtex.com

FAQ

Why is registrant information hidden?
WHOIS privacy services and GDPR regulations protect personal information. The domain still functions normally; only contact details are masked.
How accurate is WHOIS data?
Registrants are required to provide accurate information, but enforcement varies. Registration dates and nameserver data are reliable; contact information may be outdated.
Can I find historical WHOIS records?
Current WHOIS shows live registration data. Historical WHOIS requires specialized archives that track changes over time.
What do WHOIS status codes mean?
Codes like "clientTransferProhibited" or "serverHold" indicate domain state. Common statuses reflect normal operations; unusual codes may indicate disputes or policy holds.