How to Add, Edit, and Delete DNS Records

Managing DNS records is an essential part of web hosting administration, as these records control how domain names are translated into IP addresses and other services. Here’s a general guide on how to add, edit, and delete DNS records in a typical web hosting control panel, such as cPanel, Plesk, or a custom DNS management interface:

Step-by-Step Guide

Accessing DNS Management

1. Log In to Your Web Hosting Control Panel:   - Use your credentials to log into your web hosting account. This could be cPanel, Plesk, or another type of control panel provided by your hosting service.

2. Navigate to DNS Management: - Look for sections labeled "DNS Management," "Zone Editor," "Domains," or "DNS Settings." 

Adding DNS Records

1. Select the Domain:
   - If you have multiple domains, select the domain for which you want to add a DNS record.

2. Add a New Record:
   - Look for an option to "Add Record" or "Create New Record."
   - Choose the type of DNS record you want to add (e.g., A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, etc.).
   - Enter the required details:
     - A Record: Points a domain to an IP address. Enter the name (or subdomain) and the IP address.
     - CNAME Record: Points a domain to another domain name. Enter the alias and the canonical name.
     - MX Record:** Specifies mail servers for the domain. Enter the mail server address and priority.
     - TXT Record: Used for various types of verification. Enter the host and the text value.
   - Save your changes.

Editing DNS Records

1. Select the Domain:
   - Navigate to the domain whose DNS records you wish to edit.

2. Locate the Record to Edit:
   - Find the record you need to edit in the list of existing DNS records.

3. Edit the Record:
   - Click on an "Edit" option next to the record.
   - Modify the fields as needed (e.g., change the IP address for an A record or update the target for a CNAME record).
   - Save your changes.

Deleting DNS Records

1. Select the Domain:
   - Choose the domain from which you want to delete a DNS record.

2. Locate the Record to Delete:
   - Identify the DNS record you want to remove.

3. Delete the Record:
   - Click on a "Delete" or "Remove" option next to the record.
   - Confirm the deletion if prompted.

Important Considerations

- Propagation Time: DNS changes can take some time to propagate across the internet, typically up to 48 hours. However, many changes often occur much faster.
- Accuracy: Ensure that DNS records are entered accurately, as incorrect entries can cause downtime or misdirected traffic.
- Backup: Before making significant changes, consider backing up your existing DNS settings.
- TTL (Time to Live):Adjust the TTL value if you need changes to propagate faster. A lower TTL means changes will propagate more quickly but can increase DNS query traffic.
- Consult Documentation: Different web hosting providers may have unique interfaces or additional options. Consult your hosting provider's documentation for specific instructions.