How to Use Linux Shell to Find the Registration of an Internet Domain

If you are planning on setting up your own domain name but are not sure whether the name is already in use, then you can easily check it using Shell. You can also use this command for a little fun; it may surprise you to know who actually owns certain domain names.


Step 1 Boot your computer and open a Shell window.

Step 2 Type the “whois” command, followed by the domain name, and press “enter.” For example: Whois Google.com.

Step 3 Look over the information that was retrieved. Normally it will give the registrant’s name or company name, as well as the address, phone numbers, the server or servers, when the name was created and expires, and possibly some legal disclaimers.

Step 4 If no information is returned and you get the message “No Match For…,” then double check the spelling of the domain name and if it is correct, the name is not registered and is up for grabs. At this point you can begin the process of registering the domain name to yourself.