A&O Guide to Switching Website Hosting Providers
If you’re switching hosting providers, you’ll need access to your domain’s DNS settings to update key records and ensure a smooth transition. This guide will walk you through the process and help you gather the necessary information.
How to Gain Access to Your Domain’s DNS Settings
What is DNS?
DNS (Domain Name System) is like the phonebook of the internet. It connects your domain name (e.g., yourwebsite.com) to the correct web server where your website is hosted.
Why Do You Need DNS Access?
When moving your website to a new hosting provider, you need to update your DNS records so visitors reach the new server instead of the old one. This requires access to your domain's control panel.
Step 1: Identify Where Your Domain is Managed
Your DNS settings are controlled by one of the following:
Your Domain Registrar – This is the company where you purchased your domain (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains).
Your Web Hosting Provider – Some hosting companies manage your domain's DNS if you bought the domain through them.
A Third-Party DNS Service – Some companies use external DNS providers like Cloudflare or AWS Route 53.
How to Find Out Where Your Domain is Managed
Check Your Email – Look for confirmation emails from your domain registrar.
Use a WHOIS Lookup – You can check whois.domaintools.com or who.is to see where your domain is registered.
Check Your Website’s Nameservers – If your domain uses nameservers like ns1.bluehost.com, your DNS is likely managed by Bluehost.
Step 2: Request Login Access to Your DNS Settings
Once you’ve identified where your DNS is managed, you’ll need to obtain login access.
If You Already Have Access:
Log in and locate the DNS or Name Server Settings section. This will allow you to make changes to your records when needed.
If Someone Else Manages Your Domain:
If an IT team member, previous developer, or third-party company controls your domain, you’ll need to request access. Use this template to reach out:
Email Template to Request DNS Access
Subject: Request for Domain DNS Access
Hi [Person’s Name],
I’m in the process of updating my website hosting and need access to my domain’s DNS settings to update records. Could you please provide me with:
Login credentials for the domain registrar (or DNS management platform).
The ability to make DNS changes or delegate access if possible.
Any details about where my domain is currently managed.
If you’re unable to provide direct access, please let me know the best way to proceed. I appreciate your help!
Thanks,
[Your Name]
Step 3: Provide Access to Your Web Team
To ensure a smooth transition, once you have access, you should grant access to your web team (us) so we can make the necessary updates.
How to Share Access Securely:
Registrar Login: If possible, provide temporary login credentials or create a sub-account for us.
Delegated Access: Some registrars allow you to grant DNS management permissions without sharing your main login.
Screenshots or Instructions: If you prefer to make the changes yourself, send us screenshots of your DNS settings, and we’ll guide you through the updates.
What We Need to Access or Update:
Once you gain access, here are the key details we may need to update:
✅ Nameservers (NS Records) – If the domain needs to point to a new hosting provider.
✅ A Record – Directs your domain to the new hosting server’s IP address.
✅ CNAME Record – Used for subdomains (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com → yourwebsite.com).
✅ MX Records – If email services are hosted separately, these control email delivery.
Final Steps
Once access is granted and updates are made, DNS changes can take 24-48 hours to fully take effect. We’ll handle the transition and ensure everything is set up correctly.
If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!
Who is A&O?
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