A TLD (Top Level Domain) is a domain at the top of the Domain Name System hierarchy, examples being ".uk" and ".com". A SLD (Second Level Domain) is the next lower level of the hierarchy underneath the top-level domains and examples are ".co.uk" and ".eu.com". Some TLD types such as ".uk" are not normally available for registration.

The registrant is the legal owner of the domain, the registrant can be either an individual or a business. Once a domain is registered the registrant has ultimate control of the domain and the "registrant name" is the only item in the registration details which is not easily changed, changing the registrant (owner) of a domain can involve much paperwork by both the new and existing registrant and many registries make a charge for applying these changes.

There are two main methods of transferring a domain name to Shetland Broadband.

1. For domains ending in ".uk" you need to inform your existing ISP or registration agent that you wish them to modify the "TAG" for the domain to "SBB", the existing "TAG" holder will probably require some proof of authority from you and should provide you with details if there is a problem. Should there be difficulty in getting the "TAG" modified by the existing holder then contact us for assistance. Please be sure that we are aware of the transfer in advance as this will enable us to be prepared. Domains transferred to us of which we have no knowledge may, after a period of time be "DETAGGED", that is returned to Nominet, the UK registration authority who will make a charge to re-assign the "TAG" at a later date. For more information visit Nominet's web site.

2. For most other domain types we can initiate the transfer process for you, but you will be required to contact the existing ISP or registration agent to give them your authority to release the domain into the care of Shetland Broadband.

Some companies make it difficult or charge to transfer a domain to a new host, Shetland Broadband do neither, while being sorry to loose your domain we still consider as part of our service to make this operation as smooth as possible. There are two main methods of transferring a domain name to another body.

1. For domains ending in ".uk" you need to inform us of the "TAG" for the new host, if you do not know this they will give you the information, we will also need proof of authority from the registrant before making any changes.

2. For most other domain types the transfer is initiated by the new host, we will also need proof of authority from the registrant before we will approve the transfer request received from the new host. If we do not have this authority in time the transfer request may expire meaning that the new host will have to re-submit their request, some companies will charge for this.