How to connect domain to hosting? A step-by-step guide

Consider securing your website with an SSL certificate, especially if you plan to collect sensitive information from visitors.

Connecting a domain to hosting is a fundamental step in getting your website online. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you connect your domain to your hosting provider. Please note that the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your domain registrar and hosting provider, so refer to their documentation for precise instructions.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information

Before you begin, make sure you have the following information readily available:

1. Domain Registrar Login Credentials: You'll need the username and password for your domain registrar account (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains).

2. Hosting Provider Login Credentials: You'll need the username and password for your hosting account (e.g., Bluehost, SiteGround, or HostGator).

3. Nameservers or DNS Records: You'll need the nameservers provided by your hosting provider or any specific DNS records they require you to configure.

Step 2: Log In to Your Domain Registrar Account

Go to the website of your domain registrar and log in to your account using your username and password.

Step 3: Locate Domain Management

Once logged in, look for an option like "Domain Management," "My Domains," or "Manage Domains." Click on it to access your domain management dashboard.

Step 4: Find the Domain You Want to Connect

In your domain management dashboard, locate the domain you want to connect to your hosting. This may involve searching through your list of registered domains or selecting the domain from a dropdown menu.

Step 5: Access DNS Settings or Nameservers

Depending on your registrar, you may need to access DNS settings or nameservers. Look for options such as "DNS Settings," "Nameservers," or "Domain Name Servers."

Step 6: Change Nameservers

If your hosting provider has provided you with specific nameservers, select the option to change nameservers. You'll typically see fields where you can input the new nameserver information.

Enter the nameservers provided by your hosting provider. There are usually two or more nameservers, and you should input all of them. Save or update the changes.

If your hosting provider uses custom DNS records instead of nameservers, follow their specific instructions for configuring DNS records.

Step 7: Confirm Changes

After saving the nameserver or DNS record changes, allow some time for these changes to propagate across the internet. This process, known as DNS propagation, can take several hours to 48 hours, although it's often much quicker.

Step 8: Configure Hosting

While you're waiting for the DNS changes to propagate, you can configure your hosting account to recognize your domain.

Log in to your hosting account using the credentials provided by your hosting provider.

Navigate to the control panel or dashboard, where you'll typically find an option to add a new domain or website.

Add your domain by entering the domain name and any additional information your hosting provider requires.

Step 9: Upload Website Files

If you already have a website ready, you can now upload your website files to your hosting account. You can use FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or a hosting-provided file manager to upload your website's files.

Step 10: Test Your Website

After DNS propagation has completed (usually within 48 hours but often much quicker), you can test your website by entering your domain name in a web browser. If everything is correctly configured, your website should appear online.

Step 11: Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues, such as your website not loading correctly or displaying an error, here are some troubleshooting steps:

• Double-check the nameservers or DNS records in your domain registrar's settings to ensure they match the information provided by your hosting provider.

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies or try accessing your website from a different browser or device.

• Review your hosting account's settings to make sure your domain is correctly associated with your website files.

• Contact your domain registrar or hosting provider's customer support for assistance if the issue persists.

Connecting a domain to hosting is a critical step in getting your website online. By following these steps and being patient during the DNS propagation period, you can successfully connect your domain to your hosting provider and have your website accessible on the internet.

01st Oct, 2023

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