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'''Drop-Catching''' is the process of registering expired domain names by means of automated systems within a short period of time (even a fraction of a second) after being canceled by the [[Registry|registry]]. Simply put, the auto-registration of domains in the moment of their deletion. Drop-Catching is performed by various companies known as ''"drop-catchers"''.  <ref>[http://www.dnforum.com/f578/art-dropcatching-thread-373307.html Drop-catching definition]</ref>

==Overview==
The process of drop-catching is different from registering expired or new domains. The main objective of drop-catching is to secure expired domain names once these are dropped from the domain registry. This process depends on instantaneous actions, so [[Domainer|domainers]] must act as soon as possible in order to secure these domains. 

Drop-catching is usually used either to regain a domain or with the purpose of swiping up high-quality and successful domains for resale.

==How Does Drop-Catching Work?==
Instead of waiting for a dropped or deleted name to become widely available a domainer could place a back-order with a "dropcatcher", who will secure the domain for a fee. 

===Drop-Catching Companies===
Due to the competitiveness between drop-catching companies and the differences between drop-catching services, not all back-orders are successful. In the case of multiple bidders for the same domain, a private auction will be created. The prices for back-order may vary, depending on the situation, and whether it involves an auction or not. In the case of a single bidder, the price of a back-order is around $60-$70. But in the case of auctions, the price can increase exponentially.<ref>[http://www.dnforum.com/f578/art-dropcatching-thread-373307.html Drop-catching]</ref>

===Drop-Catching Software Programs===
However,lately, there were also developed various forms of software programs that automatically register the dropped domains in the second these become available; which provides the same assurance and seemingly more reliable results than a back-order service.  

===Drop-Catching and ICANN===
Drop-catching takes advantage of [[ICANN]]'s Add Drop Grace Period. Having this in mind, drop-catching is considered by many a serious abuse of domain procedure, similar to [[Domain Tasting|domain tasting]], [[Domain Kiting|domain kiting]], or [[Typosquatting|typo-squatting]].<ref>[http://www.websitemagazine.com/content/blogs/posts/archive/2008/01/31/Drop-Catching-Domains-Big-Business.aspx Drop-catching Business]</ref>

==References==
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[[Category: Glossary]]