Changing Your Domain’s Nameservers at SmartHost

Introduction

A domain’s nameserver is a component of the internet’s DNS (Domain Name System), acting as a directory that connects your domain name to the IP address of your website. This system allows users to access websites using easy-to-remember domain names instead of complex IP addresses. Changing your domain’s nameservers is required to direct traffic to your website and ensure it is accessible to your website visitors. This guide by SmartHost provides a straightforward approach to updating your domain’s nameservers, ensuring your website’s smooth operation and accessibility.

Quick Start Guide

Changing Your Domain’s Nameservers with SmartHost

This section outlines the steps to quickly update your domain’s nameservers in your SmartHost client area, ensuring your website is connected to the correct server.

1. Log in to the SmartHost Client Area: Visit https://portal.smarthost.ie and enter your credentials to log in.
2. Navigate to Your Domains: Click on “Domains” followed by “My Domains.” Locate the domain you wish to manage and click on the three dots on the right side of its listing.

3. Access Nameserver Settings: Select “Manage Nameservers” from the dropdown menu.

3. Update Nameservers: Choose “Use custom nameservers” if not already selected. Replace the existing nameserver details with your new nameserver settings, then click “Save.”

Please ensure your domain is ‘unlocked’ for changes. If needed, go to the “Registrar Lock” tab and click “Disable Registrar Lock.” It’s advisable to re-enable this lock after making your updates.

Note: Nameserver changes typically take 24-48 hours to propagate worldwide, although this process can extend to 72 hours in some cases.

In-Depth Guide

Understanding and Changing Your Domain’s Nameservers

The ability to update and manage your domain’s nameservers is a vital aspect of maintaining your website’s accessibility and performance. This in-depth guide provides further insights into each step of the process.

• Accessing the SmartHost Client Area: Securely log into your account at SmartHost to begin managing your domain’s settings. This centralised dashboard allows for efficient management of your hosting services.
• Navigating to Your Domain Settings: Within the SmartHost client area, the “My Domains” section provides a comprehensive overview of your registered domains. This is where you can manage various aspects of your domain, including nameserver settings.
• Choosing to Use Custom Nameservers: By selecting “Use custom nameservers,” you gain control over directing your domain’s traffic. This is used for using third-party hosting services or when migrating your website to another provider.
• Updating Nameserver Information: Replacing old nameserver entries with new ones when changing hosting providers or when required for specific DNS management tasks.
• Domain Locking and Unlocking: The Registrar Lock feature enhances your domain’s security by preventing unauthorised transfers. Unlocking is necessary for updating nameserver information but remember to re-enable the lock afterwards for your domain’s safety.

Examples

• Changing Hosting Providers: If you’re moving your website to a new hosting service, updating your domain’s nameservers to those provided by the new host ensures that your domain points to the new server.
• Using Third-Party Services: For services like email hosting or website builders, updating your nameservers connects your domain to these services seamlessly.

FAQ – Changing Your Domain’s Nameservers