Warning: Domain Diagnostics

[nielsencl]

I just noticed that Godaddy is offering something called "Domain Diagnostics". While some of the information they provide can be helpful, I consider some of it designed to make the unaware domain owner worry and spend money on products and services that they may not need or even want, should they really understand what they are. For example:

Warning! There are minor issues
Protecting Your Domain Investment
Protect your online investment; keep your domain safe from transfer or expiration and out of harm's way.

Certified Domains

Warning! YOURLOSERDOMAIN.COM has not been authenticated.

Warning! Domain Auto Renew
Warning! Auto Renew for YOURLOSERDOMAIN.COM is off. Your domain could expire without your knowledge.

Warning! Expiration Protection
Warning! YOURLOSERDOMAIN.COM is not protected against accidental expiration.

Success! Blacklist Scan
Success! Your site and servers appear free of Internet exploits.

Warning! Domain Age
Warning! YOURLOSERDOMAIN.COM was established on 11/6/2009 9:47:23 PM and is 9 months old. Consider methods to enhance your credibility.

If you are not sure what these things are and if there is a fee connected with the resolution, then get more information to determine if you really need it or not. In my personal opinion, you should not need to have your domain "authenticated" or worry about "Domain Age". Auto-renew can be useful, but only if you are sure you will renew your domain.

So when someone says you need something, especially a vendor, consider getting a second opinion and you may save some money you didn't need to spend.