Understanding DNS and Its Role in Your Website
Before diving into editing DNS, it’s important to understand what it does. DNS stands for Domain Name System. Think of it as the internet’s address book — it translates your domain name (like example.com) into an IP address that computers can understand. Without correct DNS settings, your website, email, and other online services might not work properly.
There are different types of DNS records you might encounter. The most common include:
- A Records: Point your domain to a specific server IP address.
- CNAME Records: Redirect one domain or subdomain to another.
- MX Records: Control where your emails are delivered.
- TXT Records: Used for verification and security, such as SPF or DKIM for email authentication.
Editing DNS allows you to control where your website and emails are directed. While it sounds technical, cPanel simplifies the process with a user-friendly interface, making it manageable even for beginners.
Accessing DNS Settings in cPanel
The first step is logging into your cPanel account. Most hosting providers give you a link to your cPanel dashboard along with your login credentials. Once inside, look for the “Domains” or “Zone Editor” section — the name can vary depending on your host.
Inside the Zone Editor, you’ll see a list of your domains. Selecting the domain you want to edit will display all its existing DNS records. It’s helpful to take note of the current settings before making changes, as incorrect edits can temporarily disrupt your website or email. Many cPanel interfaces allow you to export DNS records or take a screenshot for backup purposes.
Once you’re ready, you can add new records, edit existing ones, or delete outdated entries. cPanel usually provides fields for each type of record — such as Name, Type, TTL (Time to Live), and Value. These fields help ensure you enter the correct information.
Editing DNS Records Safely
When editing DNS, accuracy is key. Changing an A record incorrectly could make your website unreachable, while mistakes in MX records might stop emails from arriving. Here’s a safe approach:
- Back up current DNS settings: Take a screenshot or note down all existing records.
- Identify the record you need to change: Make sure you know whether you’re updating an A, CNAME, MX, or TXT record.
- Edit the record carefully: Enter the new value exactly as provided by your hosting or email provider. Avoid extra spaces or incorrect IP addresses.
- Save your changes: Most cPanel interfaces have a clear “Save” or “Update” button.
Remember that DNS changes may take some time to propagate across the internet — usually anywhere from a few minutes to 24-48 hours. During this period, some users may still see the old settings.
Troubleshooting Common DNS Issues
Even with careful editing, issues can arise. Common DNS problems include websites not loading, emails not being delivered, or subdomains failing to connect. To troubleshoot:
- Double-check records: Ensure that IP addresses, hostnames, and values are entered correctly.
- Verify TTL settings: A shorter TTL allows faster propagation but may increase server queries.
- Clear local DNS cache: Sometimes, your computer or network may still use old DNS information.
- Use online DNS tools: Websites like WhatsMyDNS.net can help check if changes have propagated globally.
If issues persist, contact your hosting provider for assistance. cPanel makes it easier to manage DNS, but support teams can help resolve more complex configurations.
How InfaCloud Uses cPanel on Our Own Servers
At InfaCloud, we host our clients’ websites on our own servers using cPanel. This allows us to manage DNS, email, and website files efficiently, while providing full control over server performance and security. By using cPanel, we give clients the ability to make their own DNS changes if needed, while still offering professional support for those who prefer us to manage the technical side.
Our servers are optimised for speed and reliability, so editing DNS through cPanel is safe and effective. Whether you’re adding a new subdomain, pointing your email to another provider, or updating A records, InfaCloud’s setup ensures everything works seamlessly with minimal downtime.
Benefits of Using InfaCloud’s cPanel Hosting
Clients working with InfaCloud enjoy a streamlined experience. Our cPanel setup allows easy DNS management, one-click software installations, email configuration, and secure backups. Even beginners can make basic changes, while advanced users have full control if they need it.
Because we manage our own servers, we can provide personalised guidance and support, helping businesses avoid common DNS mistakes. This ensures your website and emails are always functioning properly, making it easier to focus on growing your business without worrying about technical issues.
