Overview
If you’ve just registered a new .ie domain, you may temporarily be unable to update its name servers. This is usually because the registration is still being processed by the .IE Registry (IEDR).
Until the domain is fully registered and active at IEDR, name server changes cannot be applied (even if you can see the domain in your client area).
Most common cause: the .ie registration is still processing
New .ie registrations don’t always complete instantly. The domain may be:
- awaiting completion of registry processing, or
- pending further information/verification (in some cases)
What this means
- You cannot change name servers yet.
- The domain is not “fully live” at registry level.
- Once the registration completes, you’ll be able to update name servers normally.
What to do next
1) Wait at least 1 working day
Please allow at least 1 working day for a .ie domain registration to complete or for a request for additional details to be issued.
2) Watch for a request for more information
If IEDR requires anything further, SmartHost will contact you with what’s needed (for example, additional registrant details or documentation).
3) Try again once the domain is fully registered
After the registration completes, you can update name servers as normal:
- If your domain is registered with SmartHost, it’s typically set to:
- ns1.smarthost.ie
- ns2.smarthost.ie
- If you’re changing to another provider (e.g., Wix / Microsoft / etc.), you can update to their name servers once the domain is active.
How you’ll know it’s ready
In most cases, once the domain is fully registered:
- name server updates will save successfully in the SmartHost Client Area, and
- changes will begin propagating (DNS propagation can still take time after that).
FAQ
Why can I see the domain but can’t change name servers?
Because the order can exist in your account while the registry registration is still processing. Name server updates require the domain to be active at IEDR.
How long does a .ie registration take?
Typically within 1 working day. If more information is required, we’ll contact you.
Will SmartHost request more details if needed?
Yes—if IEDR requires anything further, we have or will request the required information from you.
I need this urgently for verification (Google Workspace / Wix). What can I do?
The fastest path is usually:
- wait for the .ie registration to complete (often within 1 working day), then
- set the required name servers or DNS records immediately.
