Does anyone know of a way to find out how a previous owner of a domain used that domain name? For example, if I wanted to register yahoo.com because it was available (it isn't :)) and I had no idea what Yahoo did with that domain, how can I find out. I know about archive.org but unfortunately they don't have anything listed for the specific domain in question. I just want to make sure it wasn't some sort of illegal or porn site.

Have you googled it?

Completely forgot about the powerful Google. Just did a search and it shows no results. I tried several methods but nothing appears. I know for a fact that this domain was used before because I have been trying to follow the expiration date on it for the purpose of obtaining it if possible. Now, while running a random whois search yesterday I see that it's available. And nowhere does it show that it was used before. It's almost like the previous owner disappeared and the Internet has no records of the domain ever being used.

I already have it purchased through Dotster but am just waiting to have them complete the order. With the .US domains being available, I'm sure it won't be done as fast as normal.

try www.archive.org :cool:

If the site isn't listed in archive.org, it didn't generate enough traffic for you to worry about what it was used for.

Yes, it is possible to have your site removed from archive.org, but is improbable the previous owner went through that process.

You might also check alexa.com to find site ranking information for the domain.

RJ

Originally posted by markblair
...I know about archive.org but unfortunately they don't have anything listed for the specific domain in question....

Already did. However, I checked again for the fun :) of it and there was a listing from last May but the following message is received when trying to check it out:

Not in Archive.

The page you requested has not been archived. If the page is still available on the Internet, we will begin archiving it during our next crawl. Try another request or click here to search for all pages on dir.bestoftheweb.com/adirectory.asp?d=716434
See the FAQs for more info and help, or contact us.

Guess I will find out when I get some email messages after the domain is registered...:rolleyes:

Originally posted by -RJ-
If the site isn't listed in archive.org, it didn't generate enough traffic for you to worry about what it was used for...

...You might also check alexa.com to find site ranking information for the domain.

Yep, same thing. No info on alexa either. I'm not going to worry about it since it is obvious the previous owners probably registered the name and never used it. Or never generated enough traffic like you suggested. Thanks everyone for the tips. I just wanted to be sure I didn't invest in someone else's problem site with spam, porn, etc.