A CNAME record makes one DNS name an alias of another. It is often used to connect a subdomain to a service that supplies an exact target. It does not copy a website or change the address shown in the browser. To send visitors to a different web address, use an HTTP redirect instead.
Before changing the zone
- Identify the provider hosting the domain’s active DNS. If the nameservers point to another provider, a change in cPanel will not affect that public zone.
- Obtain the exact record name and target from the service you are connecting. The target is a complete hostname, without
https://, a path, port or IP address. - Record the existing value and its cache lifetime, called TTL. Check dependencies before replacing it: a name used by the website may also support email or verification.
An ordinary CNAME must not coexist with other records at the same name. Do not delete an A, AAAA or verification record simply to dismiss an error. For the main domain without a subdomain, have the provider’s supported approach checked: a standard CNAME and provider-specific alias features are not interchangeable. See our guide to changing DNS while preserving email services.
Add the CNAME in cPanel
This procedure applies if cPanel manages the active zone and the tool is available for your service.
- Open cPanel, then Zone Editor.
- Find the correct domain. Use + CNAME Record, or Manage and add a record of type CNAME, depending on the interface.
- Enter the supplied alias name and target hostname. If a TTL field is available, follow the service’s instructions or retain an appropriate value for your zone.
- Check the resulting complete name: the interface may append the domain suffix. Avoid entering it twice. Review the target and save.
Verify the result
Find the saved entry and confirm its type, name and target. A success message confirms the record was saved in that zone, not that every cache has updated. Previous answers can remain visible according to their TTL.
Then validate the intended service. For a website, the destination hosting must accept that hostname and present a valid HTTPS certificate for it. For domain verification or email signing, use the provider’s verification process. Do not reset the entire DNS zone to fix an alias.
Plan the change with Nuagerie
Our team can help you check dependencies and plan a change that fits your website. In your Client Area, provide the affected domain, the intended result and the checks you have completed. Do not include passwords or access tokens in your request.
