If you have domains listed with 1and1, and you chose to let domains expire on their renewal dates, 1and1 punishes the customer by unlocking the domains. I guess this is to make it easier for people to steal them.
Also it takes 8 separate steps, by trial and error, to even find the site to indicate your renewal choice.
I don't have any beef with 1and1's web hosting. However, I curse the day I ever listed any domains with them. Investigative journalist, Kelli Jack states: “1and1 should be shut down.” The Pennsylvania Better Business Bureau has them listed as “Unsatisfactory” Check out Red Flag for some customer comments.