The Domain Database
The „telephone directory of the Internet“ for .de domains.
What is the domain database?
DENIC's domain database is the central registry for all .de domains. Around 1.5 million transactions are processed here every month – from new registrations and updates to deletions. This makes it one of the most important foundations for a stable and reliable internet in Germany.
It functions as the ‘telephone directory of the Internet’ for .de addresses. Each domain may only exist once – similar to telephone numbers. Examples are denic.de, denic.net ordenic.online.
To ensure that everything remains unique, DENIC manages the official registry for all .de domains. Changes such as new registrations, transfers or deletions are automatically entered into this system. Several times a day, the data is distributed to the global DENIC name server network so that users can access the latest information at any time.
Good to know:
First come, first served
The registration of a .de domain is based on the principle of „First come, first served“: the decisive factor is which order is written into the domain database first by the registration system.
Fully automatic registration
Processing is fully automated via a secure registration system that is active around the clock. It processes around 1.5 million orders every month.
Access for DENIC members
Only DENIC members (Internet providers) have direct access to the registration system. Other providers work together with a DENIC member for this purpose.
Registration directly with DENIC
If you wish, you can also register your domain directly with DENIC. However, additional services such as web space or email are not included here.
Security and data protection
Security measures
DENIC protects the domain database with strict security measures. Only authorised members are permitted to change data, and every request is checked for authenticity.
Anyone can also use the public whois service to check whether a .de domain is still available or has already been assigned.
Modern data centres for maximum availability
To ensure that the domain database functions reliably at all times, DENIC operates two state-of-the-art data centres in Frankfurt am Main and Amsterdam.
All systems are backed up multiple times to prevent failures.
Innovative technologies ensure that updates and improvements can be implemented even during ongoing operations.
In the event of problems, DENIC can switch to the second data centre within a very short time.
This ensures that .de domain administration remains secure, stable and future-proof.