To connect your website to a domain, simply add the required A and TXT DNS records in your domain provider’s dashboard; this links your domain to your site and enables successful verification.
Why Connecting Your Website to a Domain Matters
A domain not only boosts your brand’s credibility but also makes your website easier to remember and access. By connecting a domain (like www.yourbusiness.com) instead of using a generic URL, you reflect professionalism and establish trust with visitors. The process can seem technical, but following this guide will make it straightforward, even for beginners.
Understanding DNS Records: The Basics
DNS (Domain Name System) records are essential digital instructions that tell the internet where your website lives. The two primary records you'll be working with are:
- A Record: Directs your domain to the correct server IP address, making your site visible on the web.
- TXT Record: Provides additional information—often used for verifying ownership and other security features.
Step 1: Gather Your DNS Information
Before you begin, make sure you have the DNS records you need to add. Typically, you'll be provided with values similar to:
| Type | Host | Value | TTL |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | @ | 141.95.86.144 | Automatic |
| A | www | 141.95.86.144 | Automatic |
| TXT | _verifytoken | •••••••••• | Automatic |
Step 2: Log into Your Domain Provider’s Dashboard
Access your domain registrar’s website (such as Namecheap, GoDaddy, Google Domains, etc.) and find the DNS Settings or Manage DNS section for your domain.
Step 3: Add the Required DNS Records
Now you need to create the records:
-
Add an A Record for your root domain (example.com):
- Type: A
- Host:
@ - Value:
141.95.86.144 - TTL: Automatic (or the default setting)
-
Add an A Record for your
wwwsubdomain (www.example.com):- Type: A
- Host:
www - Value:
141.95.86.144 - TTL: Automatic
-
Add a TXT Record for domain verification:
- Type: TXT
- Host:
_verifytoken - Value: (You will copy this from your platform’s verification page, it usually looks like a string of letters and numbers.)
- TTL: Automatic
Step 4: Save Your Changes and Wait for Propagation
Once you’ve entered and saved each DNS record, changes may take some time to update across the internet. This process, known as DNS propagation, usually takes anywhere from a few minutes up to 24-48 hours, but most changes are visible much sooner.
Tip: Be patient! Sometimes, clearing your browser cache or using a different device can help verify if your site is live after changes.
Step 5: Verify Your Domain Connection
After DNS propagation, use your website platform’s verification tool or visit your site directly. If set up correctly, your site should now load using your domain. If there's an issue, double-check that all values were entered exactly as instructed—small typos can cause problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if my DNS provider interface looks different?
Every registrar has their own layout, but the core information you need (type, host, value) remains the same. Reach out to your provider's support if you get stuck! - Can I remove the default “www”?
Yes, you can choose to forwardwwwto your root domain with your provider’s forwarding settings, or keep both working. - What happens if I enter the wrong values?
Incorrect values mean your site won’t connect. Always double check for typos, especially with numbers and tokens.
Make Domain Setup Effortless with the Right Tools
Connecting a website to your domain can seem intimidating, but it’s a vital step to launch your business online. Luckily, when you use StarterPilot, you get more than just a platform for your business idea—you get clear step-by-step website setup guidance, smart domain suggestions, and all-in-one automation that makes bringing your startup online a breeze. The entire process, from idea to launch, is streamlined and simple, so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business.