How to add a DNS record in cPanel

Adding a DNS record in cPanel is an essential task when configuring domains and ensuring proper connectivity for services like websites, email, and other applications. DNS (Domain Name System) records help direct traffic to the correct server, making them critical for ensuring that your domain functions as expected. With cPanel, managing DNS records is simple and can be done via the Zone Editor tool.

Different types of DNS records can be added depending on your needs. The most common records include A records (which point your domain to an IP address), CNAME records (which point one domain to another), and MX records (which define the email server for the domain). Understanding which record type to add is important for setting up services correctly.

Before making changes to DNS, ensure that you have the correct information, such as the destination IP address or the target domain name. Incorrect DNS settings can lead to issues with website availability, email delivery, or other services relying on the domain.

Steps to add a DNS record in cPanel:

  1. Log in to your cPanel account.
  2. Navigate to the Domains section.
  3. Click on Zone Editor.

    The Zone Editor provides a simplified interface to manage DNS records. You can add, edit, or delete records from this section.

  4. Find the domain you want to add a record to and click on Manage next to it.
  5. Click on Add Record and choose the type of DNS record you want to create (e.g., A, CNAME, MX).

    For A records, you will need the IP address of the server you want to point the domain to. For CNAME records, you will need the domain that you're redirecting traffic to. 

    Example //A// record:
Name: example.com
TTL: 14400
Type: A
Record: 192.0.2.1
  6. Enter the required details, such as the record type, name, TTL (time-to-live), and destination address.
  7. Click Add Record to save the changes.

    Changes to DNS records can take time to propagate. DNS propagation can take up to 48 hours, but usually occurs much faster.

  8. Verify the new record by using a DNS lookup tool to ensure it has been propagated correctly. 
    Command to check DNS propagation:
$ dig example.com A