Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions we receive from ZARC and Registry Africa accredited registrars considering Passthrough.
Getting Started
What is Passthrough on Gateway SRS?
Passthrough is a service that lets already-accredited registrars manage their domain portfolios through a single modern platform while keeping their existing direct credentials, pricing, and relationships with registries such as ZARC and Registry Africa.
Which registries does Passthrough support?
Passthrough currently supports ZARC (including .co.za, .web.za, .net.za, and .org.za) and Registry Africa (.africa), along with several other major registries. This makes it especially valuable for South African and African-focused accredited registrars.
Do I need to give up or change my existing ZARC or Registry Africa accreditation?
No. You keep your full accreditation, credentials, and direct relationship with ZARC and Registry Africa. Passthrough simply adds a unified management layer on top.
How long does it take to set up Passthrough?
Setup is typically completed within one business day once you provide your existing registry credentials. Our team handles the technical linking and domain synchronisation for you.
How do I get started with Passthrough?
Simply click “Provide Your Credentials” on this page or contact our team. We will guide you through the secure credential-sharing process and complete the connection.
Operations & Control
Will Passthrough affect my direct relationship or pricing with ZARC and Registry Africa?
No. You continue to pay standard wholesale fees directly to the registries at your existing rates. Your accreditation status and commercial relationship remain completely unchanged.
Can I continue using my own EPP connection or tools alongside Passthrough?
Yes. Passthrough works alongside any existing direct EPP integrations you may already have. Many registrars use both for maximum flexibility during the transition period.
What operations can I perform through Passthrough?
You can perform the full range of domain operations, including:
- New registrations and renewals
- Transfers and bulk transfers
- DNS management and updates
- Contact management
- Domain lifecycle actions (redemption, restoration, etc.)
All of this is available through the Web Portal, WHMCS module, JSON API, or EPP.
Is Passthrough suitable for high-volume or high-value portfolios?
Yes. Passthrough is already used by accredited registrars who collectively manage more than 10,000 domains. It is built for professional operators who need reliability and efficiency at scale.
Pricing & Costs
What does Passthrough cost?
Passthrough is charged at a transparent rate of $1 per transaction (per year of registration or renewal). You continue to pay the standard registry fees directly to ZARC or Registry Africa. There are no setup fees or hidden charges.
Example:
A standard 1-year renewal = $1 Passthrough fee + your normal registry fee.
A 5-year registration = 5 × $1 Passthrough fee + 5 × registry fee.
Is the Passthrough fee negotiable?
Yes. While our standard rate is $1 per transaction, we offer special rates and flexible arrangements for larger-volume customers and established registrars. We are happy to discuss custom pricing based on your portfolio size and operational requirements. Please contact our team to explore options tailored to your business.
Security & Support
How secure is the credential sharing process?
We use secure, established processes for linking accounts. Your credentials are handled with the same level of care we apply to all registry integrations. Many accredited registrars already trust us with this connection.
What kind of support is available?
You receive responsive technical support from our team, including assistance with initial setup, integration questions, and ongoing operations. We have deep experience with both ZARC and Registry Africa environments.
What happens if I want to stop using Passthrough later?
You can discontinue Passthrough at any time. Your domains and direct accreditation with ZARC and Registry Africa remain fully intact. We will work with you to ensure a smooth transition.
General
Do I need to be ICANN accredited to use Passthrough?
No. Passthrough is designed for any registrar or reseller that already holds valid accreditation with supported registries such as ZARC or Registry Africa — whether ICANN-accredited or locally accredited.
I already have a direct EPP connection with ZARC/Registry Africa. Why would I use Passthrough?
Passthrough gives you a modern, consolidated interface and automation layer across your entire portfolio without forcing you to rebuild or replace your existing direct connections. It reduces the number of systems your team needs to log into and maintain daily.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to walk you through Passthrough in detail and discuss how it fits your specific operation. Contact us or request a consultation using the button above.
Request Consultation