Setting up Domain Name System (DNS) records is a critical step for any website. Without properly configured DNS records, visitors may be unable to locate and access your site through its domain name. While the fundamental process is often straightforward, specific steps can vary significantly based on your server's operating system and the control panel you are utilizing. For users working with Plesk, this comprehensive tutorial provides detailed instructions on how to effectively create and modify DNS records within your Plesk control panel.
This guide will thoroughly cover the procedures for creating and editing various DNS records in Plesk. Furthermore, we will explain how to add additional domains, subdomains, and domain aliases, ensuring your web presence is fully functional and optimized. The information is structured to help you navigate through the process efficiently.
Creating DNS Records in Plesk
To create DNS records using Plesk, follow these steps:
Begin by logging into your Plesk control panel. You will need your username and password to access your account. Typically, you can reach your Plesk interface by navigating to a URL similar to
https://your_server_IP_address:8443. If your A records have already propagated for the server, you may also use your domain name, such ashttps://yourdomain.com:8443.After successfully logging in, navigate to the left side of the screen. Under the Hosting Services section, locate and click on the Domains option.
On the right side of the screen, a list of domains hosted on your server will be displayed. Identify and click on the specific domain for which you intend to modify or create DNS records.
Once you have selected your domain, a panel with various control options will appear. Click on the DNS Settings option, as illustrated in the image provided.
The subsequent screen presents a suite of tools and options pertinent to your DNS configuration. Here, you will find functionalities such as Switch Off the DNS Service, Add Record, and Restore Defaults. To introduce a new DNS record, simply click on the Add Record option. You will then be prompted to select the record type and input the necessary details for the record you wish to establish.
If you are uncertain about which type of DNS record to create or need clarification on their distinctions, it is advisable to consult a general DNS configuration guide for terminology. Should you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact your support team for assistance.
To modify an existing DNS record, remain on the DNS Settings screen and scroll down. You will find a comprehensive list of all current DNS records associated with your chosen domain. Click on the specific record you wish to edit to initiate changes.
The subsequent interface will provide fields to adjust the Record type, Domain name, and IP address for the selected record.
The information required will vary based on the specific type of DNS record you are creating or editing. Below are common configurations for different record types:
For MX Records:
Ensure that MX is chosen as the Record Type.
Leave the Mail Domain field blank. Set the Mail Exchange Server to correspond with the name of your mail server.
If your mail exchange server uses a specific priority number, input it here. Otherwise, it is generally recommended to set the priority to very high (0).
For A Records:
Verify that A is selected as your Record Type.
In the Domain Name field, enter the name of the subdomain you intend to host.
Set the IP Address to the IP address of your target server.
For CNAME Records:
Confirm that CNAME is chosen as your Record Type.
For the Domain Name, input the name of the subdomain you wish to alias.
Set the Canonical Name to the desired server's hostname.
Once all necessary modifications have been made, click the OK button to save and apply your changes.
Adding Domains, Subdomains, and Domain Aliases in Plesk
Creating a New Domain or Subdomain
To establish a new domain or subdomain within your Plesk control panel, follow these detailed steps:
Initially, log in to your Plesk account using your designated username and password.
On the left-hand navigation panel, find and click on the Website & Domains tab.
To add a new primary domain, click on the option labeled Add Domain. If your intention is to create a new subdomain, instead, click on the Add Subdomain option at this stage.
Proceed by following the on-screen prompts. Accurately complete all required form fields with the specific details pertinent to your new domain or subdomain.
Upon entering all necessary information, click OK to finalize the creation process and apply your changes.
Creating a Domain Alias
Follow these instructions to create a domain alias within your Plesk control panel:
After successfully logging into Plesk, navigate to the Website & Domains tab.
Subsequently, click on the link titled Show Advanced Operations to reveal more options.
Locate and click on the Domain Aliases icon.
Identify the specific domain for which you intend to establish an alias. To the right of that domain, click on the Manage option.
Click the Add Domain Alias icon to begin the process.
A form with several blank fields will appear. Populate this form with all the required information pertaining to the domain alias you are configuring. Please note that fields marked with a red asterisk are mandatory.
Once all details are correctly entered, click OK to save your new domain alias and finalize the process.
By following these detailed instructions, you will have successfully configured your DNS records and gained the knowledge to manage domains, subdomains, and domain aliases within Plesk. This comprehensive understanding ensures your server and web presence are fully optimized and ready for operation.
