epp

EPP stands for Extensible Provisioning Protocol, an XML-based application-layer protocol used for provisioning Internet resources, especially domain names. It enables registries and registrars to automate lifecycle operations such as creating, querying, renewing, updating, transferring, and deleting domain, contact, and host objects.

The protocol is a client–server model that runs over a persistent TCP connection, typically secured with TLS. Clients authenticate with credentials or certificates and exchange XML commands within a session. Core commands include login, logout, check, create, info, update, delete, renew, and transfer; objects include domain, contact, and host.

Communications use XML payloads with standard namespaces; responses carry result codes and data. Extensions add features such as DNSSEC or registry-specific requests.

Standards and adoption: EPP was standardized by the IETF, with core specifications in RFC 5730–5734, covering base protocol and object models. It is widely used by ICANN-accredited registries and registrars to enable interoperable automation.