intermediateGeneral
Drop Catching
Registering an expired domain the instant it becomes available using automated systems.
By DomainGlossary EditorialLast updated Mar 25, 2026
Drop catching (domain sniping) is the practice of registering an expired domain the moment it becomes available after its pending-delete phase ends. Drop catchers use automated systems that submit registration requests within milliseconds of the domain dropping. Dedicated drop-catching services like SnapNames, DropCatch, and NameJet run server infrastructure co-located with registry servers to maximize registration speed.