Subaccounts vs. Authorized Users
Subaccounts and Authorized Users are both options for granting a third party such as a developer the ability to manage one or more of your domains. There are a few key differences to review when considering either option.
The most notable is their connection to your account:
- Subaccounts are accounts that you create under your own, so they are fully managed under you and can have direct login enabled/disabled.
- Authorized Users are pre-existing Porkbun accounts separate from your own that you are granting access into your account. You can have access granted to multiple authorized users at the same time.
For more information or instructions on how to configure either Subaccounts or Authorized Users, please review these guides:
How to Grant Access to Another Porkbun User as an Authorized User
Access Breakdown
Below is a comparison of what Subaccounts vs Authorized Users are able to do:
| Function | Subaccounts (Direct login) | Authorized Users |
|---|---|---|
| Manage Domains (DNS/Hosting) | Only those transferred to the subaccount | View and manage all domains under your account |
| Make purchases (Registrations, renewals, hosting) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Manage saved payment method | ✅ | ✅ |
| Adjust account details (primary email, phone number, etc.) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Change domain/registrant contact information | ✅ | ❌ |
| Unlock domains/Transfer domains/Generate authorization codes | ❌ | ❌ |
| Push domains/Account transfers | ❌ | ❌ |
| Change the account password | ❌ | ❌ |
| Update/Remove WHOIS Privacy | ❌ | ❌ |
| List domains at auction/marketplace | ❌ | ❌ |