Two Things Must Align
Your domain’s DNS records must point to your host’s server IP, and the server must be configured to answer for that domain—otherwise visitors see “This site can’t be reached.”
Step 1 – Locate Hosting Details
From your host copy the A record IP address (e.g., 192.0.2.42) or the CNAME target if they use a CDN like wpengine.com. Keep this in a notepad; you’ll paste it into DNS in a minute.
Step 2 – Choose Where to Manage DNS
You can keep nameservers at your registrar (simple) or move to a specialist like Cloudflare for free CDN + DNS. Moving to Cloudflare is usually faster and offers DDoS protection.
Step 3 – Update Nameservers (Optional)
If using Cloudflare, swap registrar nameservers to bob.ns.cloudflare.com and eva.ns.cloudflare.com. Propagation takes minutes to 24 hours; use WhatsMyDNS.net to check global status.
Step 4 – Add A and CNAME Records
- Root: @ points to 192.0.2.42
- www: CNAME → yourdomain.com (or host’s CDN target)
Using a CNAME flattening service like Cloudflare lets you point root to a hostname instead of IP, handy for dynamic hosts.
Step 5 – Mail Records (Don’t Skip)
If you want email, add MX records pointing to Google Workspace (ASPMX.L.GOOGLE.COM) or your host. Also add TXT SPF: v=spf1 include:_spf.google.com ~all
Step 6 – SSL / HTTPS
Most hosts offer free Let’s Encrypt. Enable “Force HTTPS” in cPanel or Cloudflare dashboard so all http:// requests 301-redirect to https://. This prevents duplicate-content SEO issues.
Step 7 – Test Live
Flush local DNS cache (ipconfig /flushdns on Windows) and browse to the domain. Use SSL Labs checker to confirm A+ grade. Create a simple index.html with <h1>Hello World</h1> to verify everything is glued together.
Common Errors
- Typo in IP address—double-check digits
- DNS still cached—wait or use VPN to test from different region
- Host has not added domain to virtual-host file—contact support
Going Live Checklist
Once satisfied, upload real site files, submit the domain to Google Search Console, and set uptime monitoring (UptimeRobot free plan). You’re officially on the internet.