There are different stages during a domain's life. Here we can look at them in detail and explain what each period means.
You can check the status of domains through WHOIS services. An example is the ICANN WHOIS website.
Available
This means that the domain is currently free and available for registration.
For registering a domain, please follow this link.
Active
The domain has an owner and is currently active. The owner may renew the domain at any time during this period.
The domain expiration date cannot be more than 10 years.
Expired
If the domain is not renewed during the Active period, it will be expire.
The owner may pay the renewal fee and renew the domain during this period.
For renewing the domain please read this guide.
Redemption Grace
This is a 30-day period which roughly starts 35 to 45 days after the domain has expired.
During this time, the domain can only be renewed by paying the penalty fee.
Pending Delete
This is a period which lasts about 5 days. During this time the domain cannot be renewed at all. After this period is over, the domain will be released and available for re-registration.