Managing DNS records in cPanel is crucial for ensuring that your domain is correctly pointed to your web hosting server. DNS (Domain Name System) records are responsible for directing web traffic to the appropriate servers. This guide will walk you through the process of managing DNS records in cPanel.
Step 1: Log Into cPanel
1.Open your web browser and navigate to your cPanel login page.
2.Enter your username and password to access the cPanel dashboard.
Step 2: Locate the DNS Zone Editor
1.Once logged into cPanel, scroll down to the Domains section.
2.Look for the Zone Editor option. This is where you can manage all your DNS records.
3. Click on Zone Editor.
Step 3: Managing DNS Records
The Zone Editor will display a list of DNS records associated with your domain. You can add, delete, or edit the following types of records:
A Record
An A record maps a domain to an IP address. It’s one of the most common types of DNS records.
•To add an A Record, click on the + Add Record button.
•Enter the Name (usually your domain or subdomain).
•Enter the Address (IP address of your web hosting server).
•Click Add Record to save it.
CNAME Record
A CNAME record is used to alias one domain name to another, allowing multiple domains to point to the same IP address.
•To add a CNAME Record, click on the + Add Record button.
•Enter the Name (the subdomain you want to alias).
•Enter the CNAME (the domain name you want to point to).
•Click Add Record.
MX Record
An MX (Mail Exchanger) record specifies the mail server responsible for receiving emails for your domain.
•To add an MX Record, click on the + Add Record button.
•Enter the Name (your domain name).
•Enter the Mail Server (the server address).
•Set the Priority (lower numbers indicate higher priority).
•Click Add Record.
TXT Record
A TXT Record is used to store text information, such as domain ownership verification, SPF (Sender Policy Framework), and other verification codes.
•To add a TXT Record, click on the + Add Record button.
•Enter the Name (usually your domain).
•Enter the TXT Value (the text string you want to add).
•Click Add Record.
SRV Record
An SRV Record is used for services like VoIP, messaging, or other protocols that need to direct traffic to specific servers.
•To add an SRV Record, click on the + Add Record button.
•Enter the Name (the service you are configuring).
•Enter the Target (the server that the service will be hosted on).
•Enter the Priority, Weight, Port, and Target.
•Click Add Record.
Step 4: Editing an Existing DNS Record
1.In the Zone Editor, locate the record you wish to edit.
2.Next to the record, click on Edit.
3.Make the desired changes to the record.
4.Click Save Record to apply the changes.
Step 5: Deleting a DNS Record
1.In the Zone Editor, locate the record you want to delete.
2.Click on Delete next to the record.
3.Confirm the deletion when prompted.
Step 6: Waiting for DNS Propagation
After making changes to your DNS records, it may take up to 24-48 hours for the changes to propagate across the internet. During this time, your website or email services may not be fully functional.
Tips for Managing DNS Records
•Always double-check the IP address and values you enter when adding or editing records to ensure they are correct.
•Be cautious when editing DNS records for services like email. Incorrect configurations can result in email delivery issues.
•If you’re unsure about certain DNS settings, contact your hosting provider or support team for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Managing DNS records in cPanel allows you to configure and control how your domain interacts with various services like your website and email. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively manage your domain’s DNS settings and ensure that your website and services function properly.
If you need any help or experience issues with managing DNS records, feel free to reach out to your hosting provider’s support team. They will be able to assist you in making the necessary changes.
