A subdomain is an extension of a main domain name used to organize content, like separating a blog or store. There are different types of subdomains, but they all enhance user navigation and focus.
This article will cover the steps involved in popular platforms like GoDaddy, Namecheap, and Wix. By the end, setting up subdomains will be a breeze. Ready to get started? Selecting a specialized domain hosting provider is key to ensuring your website is secure, fast, and reliably online. Visit our guide to the best domain hosting providers to make an informed choice.
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- Wondering how to make a subdomain on places like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Wix? It’s like making a special spot on your main website for things like blogs or shops.
- Different registrars and hosting providers have their own specific steps of creating subdomains
- Before you hop into your hosting account and start making changes, make sure your subdomain name is short, sweet, and stays under 253 characters
- Mastering the creation of subdomains can significantly enhance your site’s structure, improving user experience
- Setting up addon domains or determining the IP addresses associated might be steps you encounter along the way
How to Create a Subdomain within the Same Root Domain
Whether you’re working with GoDaddy, Namecheap, Wix, or another domain registrar, we’ve mapped out the steps specifically for each.
Since every hosting account has its own set of procedures for setting up subdomains, we’re here to make things hassle-free for you!
How to Create a Subdomain in GoDaddy
If GoDaddy is your domain registrar or hosting provider of choice, follow these steps to create a subdomain.
- Log in to your GoDaddy hosting account.
- Navigate to the “Manage Domains†section.
- Choose the domain name you wish to create a subdomain for.
- Click on “Manage DNS†or “Edit DNSâ€, depending on the interface.
Source: Godaddy.com
- Navigate to the “Records†section, and look for the option to create a new record. Here, choose “CNAME†from the drop-down menu.
Source: Godaddy.com
- In the “Host†or “Name†field, input your preferred subdomain name.
- For “Points to†or “Targetâ€, input the destination address or document root.
- Click Save.
Remember, after any DNS changes, it may take some time for the changes to propagate across the internet. Checking the support page of your registrar might provide additional insights or a video tutorial to aid the process.
How to Create a Subdomain in Namecheap
To set up a subdomain in Namecheap, follow these instructions:
- Navigate to your List of Domains or domain button and click Manage next to your chosen domain name.
Source: Namecheap.com
- Click on the Advanced DNS tab.
Source: Namecheap.com
- In the Host Records area, click the Add Record button (trouble modifying Host Records?).
Source: Namecheap
- Choose how you want to link your subdomain from the following options:
Subdomain directing to a specific IP:- Pick the A Record from the Type dropdown and input the Host you want to direct to the IP.
Source: Namecheap.com
Subdomain guiding to the IP of the destination hostname: Remember, you can direct a subdomain to another domain name using either a CNAME record or an ALIAS record. A key thing to note: an ALIAS can exist alongside other records for that name.
If you need to link the main domain to another service (which you can’t do with a CNAME record), use an ALIAS.
- Choose CNAME Record for Type, input your chosen Host, and put the record details (e.g., ghs.googlehosted.com) in the Value field.
Source: Namecheap.com
- For Type, select ALIAS, specify the Host, and enter the target hostname (e.g., example.com) in Value.
Source: Namecheap.com
Subdomain redirecting to a specific URL:
- Select URL Redirect Record under Type. Enter the Host and your desired URL in the Value section. Choose between Unmasked/Masked/Permanent (301) based on your redirection preference.
Source: Namecheap.com
Subdomain linking to a server designation:
- Choose NS Record for Type and enter the Host you want to direct to a server.
Source: Namecheap
Finally,
- Make sure to hit the Save ALL Changes button.
For more information, visit Namecheap’s guide on How to Create a Subdomain
How to Create a Subdomain in Cloudflare
- Navigate to your Cloudflare profile and select the domain where you wish to establish the subdomain. From the top navigation bar, choose “DNS.â€
Source: Cloudflare.com
- Within the DNS records section, select “Add Record.â€
- Select “CNAME†from the list.
Source: Cloudflare.com
- Input “xyz†(or your specific subdomain) as the name. For the target, use your registered domain, such as “testing.comâ€.
Source: Cloudflare.com
- Click “Save.†Cloudflare updates swiftly, so you should access the domain immediately. For additional details, run a “dig†command.
Making a sub-subdomain with Cloudflare DNS is easy. It helps sort your site and makes it user-friendly. With Cloudflare, you don’t have to worry about DNS details and can work on your site better.
How to Create a Subdomain in cPanel
- Sign in to your cPanel, go to the ‘Domains’ section, and then select the ‘Domains’ menu.
- Navigate to the Domains section and Click Domains
- Press the “Create A New Domain†button.
- In the “Domain†section, input the subdomain using the correct prefix. By default, a directory name is created for the subdomain in the “Document Root†section. Adjust it if needed. After making your choices, hit “Submitâ€.
- A success confirmation appears advising that the new subdomain is created.
On the Domains page, you’ll see the new subdomain listed, where you can manage it or set up associated emails.
After you create a new subdomain, you can usually see it online in 5-10 minutes. But give it 30-40 minutes to show up worldwide.
How to Create a Subdomain in WordPress
- Go to your site’s dashboard in WordPress. If you don’t have a site for your subdomain, make one.
- Click on Upgrades → Domains.
- Press the “Add a domain†button.
- Choose “Use a Domain I own†from the menu.
- Enter the desired subdomain, like blog.yourgroovydomain.com
- Click “Nextâ€.
- On the following page, select “Connect your domainâ€.
- If the site lacks a WordPress.com plan, proceed to checkout to finalize your purchase. If not, you’ll receive a confirmation that your subdomain is now set up.
How to Create a Subdomain in Wix
- Navigate to the Domains page of your Wix account.
- Choose “Connect a domain you already own.â€Source: Wix.com
- Pick the desired site and press Next.Source: Wix.com
- Tap “connect a subdomain†at the screen’s base.
- Input your preferred subdomain (like blog.mystunningwebsite.com).
- Hit Next.
Please note: Your subdomain might take up to 48 hours to appear globally.
Learn more about how to create a subdmain on Wix
How to create a Subdomain in Hostinger
- Start by logging into your Hostinger panel. Once inside the dashboard for your desired website, click on the “domains†tab in the sidebar. From there, you’ll see options like subdomains, parked domains, and redirects. Click on “subdomainsâ€.
Source: Hostinger.com
- Once you click on “subdomainsâ€, you’ll be taken to a page where you can craft new subdomains. Simply input your desired subdomain name and hit the “create†button.Source: Hostinger.com
- Set up DNS for the subdomain by heading over to your domain provider’s platform then navigate to the DNS records for your domain. Add a new record using these specifics:
- Type: A
- Name: [Enter your subdomain name]
- Content: [Input your website’s IP address]
- TTL: Either keep the default or opt for the lowest setting.
For reference, a DNS record for a subdomain like test.example.com in Cloudflare would resemble this setup. Most domain providers have a similar layout.
Before checking if your new subdomain works, add unique content or code to its folder. To do this, access the Hostinger hosting account file manager, navigate to the ‘public_html’ folder, then to your subdomain’s folder, and place your website code there.
Once done, visiting your subdomain should display your site. If issues persist, wait up to 24 hours, as DNS record updates vary by domain registrar providers.
What Are the Requirements for a Subdomain?
Creating a subdomain is like making a special section within your main website. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Point | Description |
Keep Names Short | Subdomain parts must be 0-63 characters, with a total not exceeding 253 ASCII characters. Choose memorable names. |
Set Up a Separate Zone File | Each subdomain requires its own setup file with a Start of Authority (SOA) record for proper management. |
Understand What a Subdomain Is | A subdomain is a smaller part of a larger domain, like “play†in “play.example.com.†|
Know How to Get One | Domain providers typically offer two-level domain names, while hosting services allow self-management of subdomains under the main domain. |
Learn How They Are Used | Subdomains help schools and companies organize different parts or services on their site for user convenience. |
Recognize Common Subdomains | Widely used subdomains like WWW and FTP organize site contents and services clearly. |
Subdomains Are Not Folders | Subdomains are parts of a website’s name, not actual folders on a computer. They can point to any server folder. |
Vanity Domains | Special subdomains linked to individual accounts or reflecting user personalities. |
Server Clusters | Different subdomains can direct to distinct server groups or data centers, optimizing resource usage. |
Remember, setting up subdomains correctly helps make your website more organized and easy to use so users enjoy visiting it! Keep these tips in mind as you build your site!
Can You Create Subdomains for Free?
Yes, you certainly can! Many hosting companies let you create subdomains at no extra charge.
Here’s a brief overview of some popular ones:
- Wix: Wix is widely recognized for its user-friendly interface, allowing you to create stylish, professional websites. It offers free subdomains under the wixsite.com domain.
- Kamatera: Kamatera specializes in high-performance cloud services and makes creating subdomains simple. It’s perfect for businesses looking for scalable solutions.
- IONOS: IONOS by 1&1 is a reliable option offering various hosting solutions. You can create subdomains to organize your website neatly.
- Hostinger: Hostinger is a budget-friendly option, allowing you to create subdomains to extend your website’s functionality and reach.
- SiteGround: SiteGround stands out for its excellent customer service and robust hosting plans, allowing for creating subdomains to categorize your content effectively.
- GoDaddy: As an industry leader, GoDaddy offers the setup of subdomains catering to a variety of hosting needs.
Experimenting with different parts of your website is fun and easy with these companies, especially if you’re just starting out!
Final Word: Ready to Create Your Subdomain?
Want to make your website better? Try setting up a subdomain using the platforms we talked about. See the changes it can make and play around to find what’s right for you. Give it a shot and make it fit your needs!
Next Steps: What Now?
- Select a reliable web hosting provider
- Build a professional-looking website with no coding required
- Keep your subdomain secure by delving into best practices
- Learn how implementing SEO for subdomains can boost your online presence
Learn More About Subdomains
What Is a Subdomain: Everything You Need to Know
How to Create a Subdomain in GoDaddy with and without cPanel
SEO for Subdomains: Benefits, Disadvantages & Strategies for Success
Subdomain vs Subdirectory: Which is Better for SEO?
Domain vs Subdomain: What They Are and What’s the Difference?
How to Find All Subdomains of a Domain with Free Online Tools
Wildcard Subdomains: What They Are & How To Set Them Up
How To Redirect a Subdomain to Url: A Complete Guide
DNS Record for Subdomain: CNAME, DMARC, A Records & more
Email Subdomain: What It Is & How to Use It
SSL Certificate for Subdomain: How to Pick and Install the Right One?
How to Create a Subdomain in cPanel: Step-by-Step Guide
Subdomain Delegation to Another DNS Service Provider: Complete Guide
NGINX Subdomain Tutorial and Setup Guide
How to Create a Subdomain in Namecheap Hosting