Time to Live (TTL) is a value, in seconds, attached to each DNS record that tells resolvers how long they may cache it. A TTL of 3600 means one hour.
Lower TTLs mean changes are seen faster but cause more queries; higher TTLs reduce load and improve speed for repeat visitors but slow down changes. Typical values range from 300 seconds (5 minutes) to 86400 (1 day).
Practical tip: a day or so before a planned migration, lower the TTL on the records you will change, make the switch, then raise the TTL again once everything is stable. Note that changes to nameservers at the registry level are governed by the TLD’s own TTLs, often 1 to 2 days.
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Related terms
- Domain parking
- Domain parking means registering a domain without an active website, often showing a placeholder or ad page while it awaits use or sale.
- Domain flipping
- Domain flipping is buying domain names at low cost and reselling them for a profit, usually through aftermarket marketplaces or direct outreach.
- Domain aftermarket
- The domain aftermarket is where already-registered domains are bought and sold between owners, through marketplaces, brokers and auctions.
- Backorder
- A backorder is a request to try to register a domain the moment it drops, if the current owner lets it expire and it becomes available.