Add a new domain name to an existing hosting account

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to add a new domain name to an existing hosting account:

Prerequisites:

  1. You have an existing hosting account with a provider (e.g., Bluehost, HostGator, GoDaddy, etc.).
  2. You have purchased a new domain name (e.g., example.com) and have the necessary credentials (e.g., domain registrar login details).

Step 1: Log in to your hosting account

  1. Go to your hosting provider's website and log in to your account using your username and password.
  2. Click on the "Domains" or "Domain Manager" tab to access your domain management dashboard.

Step 2: Add a new domain

  1. Click on the "Add Domain" or "Register a Domain" button.
  2. Enter the new domain name (e.g., example.com) and select the top-level domain (TLD) from the dropdown menu (e.g.,.com,.net,.io, etc.).
  3. Choose the domain registration period (e.g., 1 year, 2 years, etc.).
  4. Review the domain registration details and pricing information.
  5. Click "Add Domain" or "Register Domain" to complete the registration process.

Step 3: Configure DNS settings

  1. Once the domain is registered, you'll need to configure the DNS settings to point to your hosting account.
  2. Go to your domain registrar's website (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, etc.) and log in to your account.
  3. Find the DNS management section and update the following records:
    • A record: Point the domain to your hosting account's IP address (usually provided by your hosting provider).
    • NS records: Set the name servers to the hosting provider's name servers (usually provided by your hosting provider).
  4. Save the changes and allow the DNS propagation to complete (this may take up to 48 hours).

Step 4: Update your hosting account

  1. Go back to your hosting account and click on the "Domains" or "Domain Manager" tab.
  2. Find the new domain name (e.g., example.com) and click on the "Edit" or "Manage" button.
  3. Update the domain's settings as needed (e.g., set the document root, enable or disable SSL, etc.).
  4. Save the changes.

Step 5: Verify the domain

  1. Once the DNS propagation is complete, verify that the domain is pointing to your hosting account by checking the domain's DNS records or using a tool like WhatsMyDNS.net.
  2. Test the domain by visiting the domain name in a web browser to ensure it resolves to your hosting account.

That's it! Your new domain name should now be added to your existing hosting account. If you encounter any issues during the process, feel free to ask for help.