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How to Change Name Servers

  • Name Servers
  • DNS Records
  • Private Name Servers
  • Advanced

In order for your domain name to resolve (point) to your web hosting account (and therefore your website), you will need to update the DNS for your domain. This typically involves updating the name servers your domain is using. This collection of articles will help you understand how to change your name servers.

Concepts​

  • Transferring a Domain vs. Changing Name Servers

Collecting Information​

Before you begin the process of changing your name servers, you will want to find out which name servers you need to use.

  • What are my name servers?
  • What name servers or DNS is my site currently using?

How to Change Name Servers​

Once you know which name servers to use with your hosting account, you can change your name servers at your registrar.

  • How do I change my DNS or name servers?
  • How do I point my existing domain to HostGator?
  • Changing Name Servers with LaunchPad
  • Change Your DNS - Reseller Hosting

Specific Registrars​

Each registrar's process for changing name servers is slightly different. To assist you in changing them, we have compiled instructions for the most common registrars. There are so many we decided to list them all on their own page.

  • How to Change Name Servers at Specific Registrars

Propagation​

When you change name servers, some people will see the change instantly, while others won't see the change for up to 24 to 48 hours.

  • When will my domain start working? Propagation
  • Propagation Times

Using Your Site Before the Domain Propagates​

It can take 24 to 48 hours for your name server changes to propagate (update) worldwide. While that happens, you may be able to preview your website by making some temporary changes. Not all types of websites can be previewed before the domain propagates, but most can be. The following articles will assist you.

  • Can I use my account and my site even though my domain name hasn't propagated yet?
  • How can my clients view their site before the DNS has propagated?
  • How Do I Change My Hosts File?
  • Flush DNS

Advanced & Specialized Help​

  • Do I have to change the name servers at my old host before I transfer my domain registration?
  • Where can I view if my name servers were setup correctly and what IPs they currently use?
  • I Bought My Domain from HostGator. How Do I Make DNS Changes?