Here’s a clear, non-technical explanation of Transferring a Domain vs. Changing Name Servers, including a comparison chart to make things easier to understand.
| Action | Transferring a Domain | Changing Name Servers |
|---|---|---|
| What it means | Moving your domain from one registrar to another | Pointing your domain to a different hosting provider |
| Where it happens | At the registrar level (e.g., GoDaddy → Namecheap) | At the DNS level (inside your domain control panel) |
| Domain ownership changes? | No, ownership remains the same | No, ownership remains the same |
| Email & website affected? | Possible downtime during transfer | No downtime if DNS settings are correct |
| Cost involved? | Yes, usually includes a 1-year renewal fee | No, changing name servers is free |
| Time it takes | 5–7 days on average | Minutes to a few hours (DNS propagation) |
| Why do it? | Better pricing, features, support | You’re switching hosting companies or DNS providers |
When you transfer a domain, you’re moving the domain registration to a new registrar (like from GoDaddy to Namecheap). After the transfer:
You manage renewals, WHOIS info, and DNS settings at the new registrar.
The domain is locked during the process.
It can take several days and usually requires an Authorization Code (EPP code).
Use Case Example:
You registered a domain at Bluehost but want to manage everything at Namecheap. You transfer the domain.
When you change name servers, you’re telling the internet where to look for your website and email services. You keep your domain where it is but point it to a new hosting provider.
For example, you update the nameservers from:
ns1.oldhost.com
ns2.oldhost.com
to:
ns1.newhost.com
ns2.newhost.com
Use Case Example:
Your domain is registered at GoDaddy, but you bought hosting from SiteGround. You just change the name servers to point to SiteGround.
| Your Goal | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| You want to manage your domain with a different registrar | Transfer the domain |
| You want to use a new web host | Change the name servers |
| You want everything under one account for easier management | Transfer + Change Name Servers |
