Managing Domains & DNS Settings
Your domain name is your online identity, while DNS (Domain Name System) settings control how your domain connects to your website, email services, and other online platforms.
This guide explains how to manage your domains and DNS settings through your hosting account and cPanel.
What is DNS?
DNS converts your domain name into the server IP address where your website and services are hosted.
Example:
- yourdomain.co.za → Your Hosting Server
DNS records also control:
- Website Connections
- Business Emails
- Subdomains
- SSL Verification
- External Services
Accessing Domain Management
Through Client Area
- Log in to your hosting client area.
- Navigate to:
- Domains
- My Domains
From here you can:
- Manage domains
- Renew domains
- Update nameservers
- Configure DNS settings
Accessing DNS Zone Editor in cPanel
- Log in to cPanel.
- Navigate to the Domains section.
- Click on Zone Editor.
The Zone Editor allows you to manage your DNS records.
Common DNS Records
A Record
An A Record points your domain to a server IP address.
Example:
- yourdomain.co.za → 123.456.78.90
Used for:
- Websites
- Hosting Services
CNAME Record
A CNAME record points one domain or subdomain to another domain.
Example:
- www.yourdomain.co.za → yourdomain.co.za
Used for:
- Website aliases
- Redirected services
MX Record
MX records control email delivery.
Example:
- mail.yourdomain.co.za
Used for:
- Business Email Hosting
- Email Routing
TXT Record
TXT records store verification and security information.
Used for:
- SPF Records
- DKIM Authentication
- Domain Verification
- Email Security
Nameservers
Nameservers connect your domain to your hosting provider.
Example:
- ns1.gatorhosting.co.za
- ns2.gatorhosting.co.za
Changing nameservers usually points your domain to a different hosting server.
How to Change Nameservers
- Log in to your domain management area.
- Select your domain.
- Locate Nameserver Settings.
- Enter the new nameservers.
- Save changes.
DNS propagation may take between 1 and 24 hours globally.
Adding a Subdomain
Steps:
- Log in to cPanel.
- Click Domains or Subdomains.
- Enter the subdomain name.
Example:
- shop.yourdomain.co.za
- blog.yourdomain.co.za
- Select the document root folder.
- Click Create.
DNS Propagation
After changing DNS settings, updates may take time to reflect worldwide.
Typical propagation time:
- 1 to 24 hours
During this period:
- Some users may see old settings
- Others may see new settings
This is normal.
Common DNS Issues
Website Not Loading
- Incorrect A Record
- Nameservers not updated
- DNS propagation still active
Emails Not Working
- Incorrect MX Records
- Missing SPF/DKIM settings
SSL Errors
- Domain not pointed correctly
- DNS changes not fully propagated
Recommended DNS Security
- Use strong account passwords
- Enable domain lock protection
- Keep contact details updated
- Avoid deleting important DNS records
- Regularly review DNS settings
Need Assistance?
If you require assistance managing your domain or DNS settings, our support team is available to assist.
- Support Email: support@gatorhosting.co.za
- Website: www.gatorhosting.co.za
Our team can assist with domain setup, DNS troubleshooting, nameserver updates, email configuration, and website connectivity issues.