How To Change Domain Registrars

I am changing my domain registrar of one of my domains from Network Solutions to GoDaddy. Changing domain registrar is definitely a non-trivial process for any non-web-savvy person. Here are the steps I followed:

1. First I logged in to Network Solutions site and set my domain protection to off.
2. I requested authorization code from the same screen which was promptly sent by email.
3. I logged in to GoDaddy and asked to transfer a domain. I opted to keep my existing name servers.
4. I went through their checkout process to register the domain name for 5 additional years for 36$.
5. I received a “Transfer of DOMAINNAME.TLD” email from GoDaddy which contained a transaction id and security code which I noted down.
6. I went to GoDaddy domain control center and selected pending transfer.
7. I checked the domain and then selected “Begin Transfer Authorization” from Authorization.
8. I provided the transaction id and security code provided earlier by GoDaddy.
9. I was then asked for authorization code from my current registrar (Network Solutions) which I provided

Note: Network Solutions sent me two emails notifying me of the domain name transfer request and providing a link to cancel the transfer. To proceed you don’t have to do anything.

In 4 days (on October 10th) Network Solutions promises me that the transfer will go through. I am expecting a seamless transfer.

BTW: The reasons I am changing from Network Solutions to GoDaddy are:

• Network Solutions charges about 20$ per domain while GoDaddy charges below 10$.
• Network Solutions badgers me with promotions whenever I try to do anything with their account manager. Their cross-selling techniques are irritating and very confusing. You may unknowingly make unwanted changes to your domain like parking to their DNS servers or add on services that you don’t need.

Update: Overall my experience with GoDaddy has been positive.