How to Create a Subdomain: GoDaddy, Namecheap, Wix & More

How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

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.

 

Top Domain Hosting Provider Picks

ProviderUser RatingBest ForExpert & User Reviews
5.0VersatilityHostArmada ReviewVisit HostArmada
4.9CustomizationUltahost ReviewVisit Ultahost
4.6SpeedHostinger ReviewVisit Hostinger
Takeaways
  • 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.

  1. Log in to your GoDaddy hosting account.
  2. Navigate to the “Manage Domains” section.
  3. Choose the domain name you wish to create a subdomain for.
  4. Click on “Manage DNS” or “Edit DNS”, depending on the interface.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Godaddy.com
  1. Navigate to the “Records” section, and look for the option to create a new record. Here, choose “CNAME” from the drop-down menu.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Godaddy.com
  1. In the “Host” or “Name” field, input your preferred subdomain name.
  2. For “Points to” or “Target”, input the destination address or document root.
  3. 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:

  1. Navigate to your List of Domains or domain button and click Manage next to your chosen domain name.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Namecheap.com
  1. Click on the Advanced DNS tab.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Namecheap.com
  1. In the Host Records area, click the Add Record button (trouble modifying Host Records?).
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Namecheap
  1. 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.

    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

    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.
      Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

    Source: Namecheap.com

    • For Type, select ALIAS, specify the Host, and enter the target hostname (e.g., example.com) in Value.
      Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

    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.
      Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

    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.

    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

    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

HostArmada: The Best Domain Hosting
HostArmada offers a wide range of Domain TLDs at affordable prices that come with DNS management and email forwarding. They offer a free domain forever as part of all their hosting plans. HostArmada is an excellent solution for anyone looking for a reliable domain registrar and the convenience of managing websites and domains from a single place.
Visit HostArmada

How to Create a Subdomain in Cloudflare

  1. Navigate to your Cloudflare profile and select the domain where you wish to establish the subdomain. From the top navigation bar, choose “DNS.”
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
    Source: Cloudflare.com
  1. Within the DNS records section, select “Add Record.”
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
  2. Select “CNAME” from the list.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
    Source: Cloudflare.com
  1. Input “xyz” (or your specific subdomain) as the name. For the target, use your registered domain, such as “testing.com”.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
    Source: Cloudflare.com
  1. 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

  1. Sign in to your cPanel, go to the ‘Domains’ section, and then select the ‘Domains’ menu.
  2. Navigate to the Domains section and Click Domains
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
  3. Press the “Create A New Domain” button.
  4. 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 “Submit”.
  5. 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

  1. Go to your site’s dashboard in WordPress. If you don’t have a site for your subdomain, make one.
  2. Click on Upgrades → Domains.
  3. Press the “Add a domain” button.
  4. Choose “Use a Domain I own” from the menu.
  5. Enter the desired subdomain, like blog.yourgroovydomain.com
  6. Click “Next”.
  7. On the following page, select “Connect your domain”.Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide
  1. 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

  1. Navigate to the Domains page of your Wix account.
  2. Choose “Connect a domain you already own.”Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Wix.com
  3. Pick the desired site and press Next.Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Wix.com
  4. Tap “connect a subdomain” at the screen’s base.
  5. Input your preferred subdomain (like blog.mystunningwebsite.com).
  6. 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

  1. 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 “subdomains”.
    Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Hostinger.com
  1. Once you click on “subdomains”, you’ll be taken to a page where you can craft new subdomains. Simply input your desired subdomain name and hit the “create” button.Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive GuideSource: Hostinger.com
  1. 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.

Final: How to Create a Subdomain for a Primary Domain: Comprehensive Guide

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 PointDescription
Keep Names ShortSubdomain parts must be 0-63 characters, with a total not exceeding 253 ASCII characters. Choose memorable names.
Set Up a Separate Zone FileEach subdomain requires its own setup file with a Start of Authority (SOA) record for proper management.
Understand What a Subdomain IsA subdomain is a smaller part of a larger domain, like “play” in “play.example.com.”
Know How to Get OneDomain providers typically offer two-level domain names, while hosting services allow self-management of subdomains under the main domain.
Learn How They Are UsedSubdomains help schools and companies organize different parts or services on their site for user convenience.
Recognize Common SubdomainsWidely used subdomains like WWW and FTP organize site contents and services clearly.
Subdomains Are Not FoldersSubdomains are parts of a website’s name, not actual folders on a computer. They can point to any server folder.
Vanity DomainsSpecial subdomains linked to individual accounts or reflecting user personalities.
Server ClustersDifferent 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Kamatera: Kamatera specializes in high-performance cloud services and makes creating subdomains simple. It’s perfect for businesses looking for scalable solutions.
  3. IONOS: IONOS by 1&1 is a reliable option offering various hosting solutions. You can create subdomains to organize your website neatly.
  4. Hostinger: Hostinger is a budget-friendly option, allowing you to create subdomains to extend your website’s functionality and reach.
  5. SiteGround: SiteGround stands out for its excellent customer service and robust hosting plans, allowing for creating subdomains to categorize your content effectively.
  6. 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!

Ultahost Domain Hosting
UltaHost delivers customized hosting solutions for everyone, from beginners to industry giants, emphasizing superior VPS and managed hosting services for hassle-free website functionality. Ultahost offers a free domain, SSL, and many great features, but what really makes it stand out are its highly transparent pricing plans and all the included freebies.
Visit Ultahost

Next Steps: What Now?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a subdomain?

A subdomain is like an offspring of the main website, known as the primary domain. Imagine you have a big toy store. Each section, like action figures or board games, can be a subdomain. It helps organize and direct your visitors to specific parts of your website without getting a new website address.

Can anyone create a Subdomain?

Absolutely! If you own or manage a website, you can create a subdomain. It’s like adding a room to your online house. As long as you have access to your website’s hosting or domain provider, you can set up a subdomain. It’s a way to expand without starting from scratch.

What characters cannot be used in a subdomain?

When naming your subdomain, think of it as a proper name. It can include letters, numbers, and hyphens. But no spaces, underscores, or special characters like &, %, $ are allowed. Keeping it simple and clear helps others find and remember it easily.

What DNS records are needed for a subdomain?

DNS records are like signposts for your subdomain. The main one is the ‘A’ record, which connects your subdomain to an IP address. Then, there’s the ‘CNAME’ record, acting like a nickname, pointing one name to another. You’ll set these up in your website’s control panel.

Does a subdomain need an SSL Certificate?

An SSL certificate for a subdomain is like a safety lock for your website. While your main site might have one, it’s crucial for your subdomain too. It ensures that the data your visitors share is secure and encrypted. Some hosting providers offer free certificates for subdomains.

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