A CNAME (Canonical Name) record in DNS is used to create aliases for domain names. The primary purpose of a CNAME record is to redirect requests for one domain name to another, canonical domain name.
Main Use Cases for CNAME Records:
Creating Aliases for Convenience:
For example, if you have a domain
example.comand you want the subdomainswww.example.comandftp.example.comto point to the same server. Instead of creating separate A records for each subdomain, you can create one A record forexample.comand use CNAME records for the subdomains.
example.com | A | 192.0.2.1 |
www | CNAME | example.com |
ftp | CNAME | example.com |
For Redirects:
If you have multiple domains and want them all to point to one main domain.
oldwebsite.com | CNAME | newwebsite.com |
For Websites and Subdomains:
You have a site
mywebsite.comand you wantblog.mywebsite.comto point to the same server.
mywebsite.com | A | 203.0.113.5 |
blog | CNAME | mywebsite.com |
In this way, CNAME records simplify domain name management, make them more flexible, and facilitate integration with various internet services.
How to specify a CNAME record
To manage DNS records use the DNS zone editor you need to go to:
Domains
Actions
DNS Records (Regery)
To add a new entry you need:
Add a new entry.
Select the record type as CNAME.
Specify the domain name as the target CNAME.
Save.
Note: If your domain is pointed to other name servers via NS records, DNS zone management is transferred to the provider to which you pointed your domain, and management should be done from there.
What values should be used?
Name (Host)
The name is the host name for the record, without the domain name. It is usually referred to as a subdomain. The domain name is added automatically, so you do not need to add it manually.
Points
In the Points to field, you need to add the address to which the CNAME record should be pointed. Enter all data correctly to ensure your CNAME record works properly.
TTL
If you haven't received specific TTL requirements, use the default TTL value
After making any changes to CNAME records, wait 24 hours for them to fully propagate.
How to Change or Delete CNAME Records?
If you want to make changes or delete an existing record, go to the DNS Zone Editor for the domain and select the appropriate option:
Delete the record permanently
Edit the record
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