whois/domain look-ups

[Anon]

Can anyone direct me to a resource on using PHP for domain look-ups? I'd like to write a script capable of searching for expiring domain names. I have no idea where to start.

Domains Bot is an example of a site that does this with ASP:
http://www.domainsbot.com

Thanks, Ryan

[jordan]

Ryan, I won't offer you a solution, but a bit of advice: This is going to be a huge nightmare if you don't have a complete local WHOIS database. The site you pointed to is a registrar, which means that they have direct access to the WHOIS database. You do not, and trying to do what you're trying to do through someone else's database is all but impossible.

[Anon]

Is there anyway to become a registrar or create a local WHOIS database? Or is this to large an undertaking for an individual?

[jordan]

Becoming a registrar takes good sum of money. However, after some thought, I don't think it costs to have a local WHOIS database. However, I'm not at all sure about this. Sorry I can't be of more help.

[Anon]

Dear Ryan
If you got an answer for your query -WhoIs domain lookups- could you please let me know.
Nice one mate,

[Anon]

I never found a good solution so I gave up on the idea. Please let me know if you get anything.