Knowledge Base :: Direct DNS :: DNS Records

What is a CNAME record?

A CNAME Record (which stands for Canonical Name Record) is a type of DNS Record (which stands for Domain Name System Record). The CNAME record is used to point one subdomain to another domain or subdomain, so that both lead to the same address. A common example is using the CNAME record for www.domain.com to point to domain.com without the subdomain "www", so that when someone types "www.domain.com" into the address bar, it goes to the same address as "domain.com". All CNAME records must have a subdomain (as in subdomain.domain.com) or else it will cause the other DNS records entered to stop working.

Where do I add the CNAME Record?

1. Directnic DNS Manager: If your domain's Name Servers are set to Directnic defaults (like ns0.directnic.com), manage your CNAME record through the Directnic DNS Manager.
2. Directnic Hosting Console: If you have a Directnic hosting plan and your domain uses Directnic Hosting defaults (like ns1.dnchosting.com), the record has already been added for your convenience. You can find it in the Zone Editor under the "Domains" header.
3. Third-Party Host: If your domain is pointed to a third-party host, manage the CNAME record through that provider's DNS manager.