HOWTO: Change DNS Records

Step 1: Gather New DNS Information

Before updating your DNS records, get the following details from your new hosting provider:

• IP Address(es): For A records.
• Nameservers: For changing at the domain registrar.
• CNAME Records: If applicable, for subdomains or specific services (like www).

Step 2: Log In to Your DNS Provider

1. Visit the website of your DNS provider (usually your domain registrar or third-party DNS management service).
2. Log in to your account.

Step 3: Locate DNS Settings

1. Navigate to the DNS Management section. This may also be called:
   • Manage DNS
   • Zone File Settings
   • Advanced DNS

Step 4: Update DNS Records

Modify the necessary records to point to your new host:

1. A Record (For your root domain, e.g., example.com):
   • Locate the existing A record.
   • Replace the old IP address with the new IP address.
   • Save the changes.
2. CNAME Record (For subdomains, e.g., www.example.com):
   • Locate the CNAME record for www.
   • Update it to point to the new destination (usually your root domain or another address provided by your host).
   • Save the changes.
3. Nameservers (Optional, for a complete transfer of DNS hosting):
   • Update your domain’s nameservers to the ones provided by your new host.
   • This is done at your domain registrar and typically takes precedence over other DNS settings.

Step 5: Verify and Save

• Double-check all entries for accuracy.
• Save your changes.

Step 6: Wait for Propagation

DNS changes can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours to propagate worldwide. During this time, some visitors might still see the old version of your website.

Step 7: Test Your Website

• Use tools like WhatsMyDNS to check DNS propagation.
• Visit your site to ensure it resolves correctly and loads as expected.

If you’re unsure about the specifics, your new hosting provider should be able to guide you through the process.