How to Change my Domain's Nameservers

Nameservers: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

Nameservers are like a digital roadmap—they guide internet users to the servers that host your website or email services. They play a key role in making sure your domain points to the right web hosting or DNS provider.

Whether you're setting up a new website, switching hosting providers, or using a third-party DNS service, updating your nameservers is an important step. This guide will walk you through the process to keep things running smoothly and avoid downtime.

• What You Need Before Changing Nameservers
• How to Update Your Nameservers at WHC
• Important Notes

What You Need Before Changing Nameservers

Before you update your domain’s nameservers, make sure you’ve got these essentials ready to go:

1. New Nameservers
   1. Get the nameserver details from your hosting or DNS provider. If you’re using WHC nameservers, please consult this article: What Are Your DNS (or Nameservers)?
   2. Most providers need at least two nameservers, so double-check you have the full list.
2. Access to Your Domain Registrar Account
   1. Log in to the account where your domain is registered. For WHC registered domains, follow the steps down below.
3. Backup of Current DNS Records (Optional but Recommended)
   1. Save a backup of your current DNS settings—just in case you need to roll back.
4. Know the Propagation Time
   1. Keep in mind that changes to nameservers can take up to 24–48 hours to spread across the internet.

How to Update Your Nameservers at WHC

1. Log in to your Client Area
2. Navigate to Domains > My Domains.
3. Select the domain you want to update by clicking on Manage.
4. Go to the Nameservers section and click on Edit.
5. Choose your preferred nameserver option:
   1. Use my domain with a WHC service (recommended): Automatically set the appropriate nameservers for your domain connected to your WHC service.
   2. Use custom nameservers (advanced): Manually enter the nameservers.  
6. Click Apply Changes to save and update your settings.

Important Notes

• Service Impact: Changes to nameservers may temporarily disrupt your website and email during DNS propagation (up to 24–48 hours). Try to avoid major updates during this period.
• Check DNS Records: Ensure your DNS records (A, MX, etc.) are accurate in your new provider’s settings to avoid downtime or errors.
• External Domains: If your domain is registered with another provider, update your nameservers through their platform and double-check your DNS records.