Quick answer: Nameservers identify the DNS servers authoritative for your domain. They publish records that direct web traffic, email and other services. Changing nameservers changes where DNS answers come from; it does not automatically move website files or mailboxes.
Before changing nameservers, record the active A, AAAA, CNAME, MX and TXT entries so important services are recreated where necessary. Follow our DNS checklist for website and email moves.
A name server is an important part of setting up your domain and pointing it to your website.
It translates domain names (example.com) into IP addresses (192.0.2.1), allowing users to access a website without needing to remember an IP address.
How Do Name Servers Work?
When you type a domain name into your browser, here’s what happens:
- Query Sent: Your browser sends a request to the DNS (Domain Name System) to find the IP address linked to the domain.
- Name Server Responds: The domain’s name server provides the IP address.
- Connection Established: Your browser uses the IP address to connect to the server hosting the website.
In short, name servers act as the internet’s directory system.
Why Are Name Servers Important?
- Website Accessibility: Without name servers, users would need to memorize IP addresses to visit websites.
- Domain Control: Name servers allow you to manage where your domain points, such as hosting providers or email services.
- Scalability: They make it easy to change hosting providers or services without altering the domain name itself.
Common Name Server Formats
Name servers typically follow a format like this:
ns1.example.comns2.example.com
Most domains have at least two name servers, pointing to two different servers that act as a “cluster”, for redundancy, ensuring reliability if one server fails.
Where Do You Find Name Server Information?
Your name server details can be accessed by visiting your service details in the Client Area. You will also receive a copy in your service’s welcome email.
How to Update Name Servers?
If you need to change your domain’s name servers:
- Log into Your Registrar Account: Access your domain management panel.
- Locate Name Server Settings: This is often under “DNS Management” or “Domain Settings.”
- Enter New Name Servers: Replace the current entries with the new name server addresses provided by your hosting provider.
- Save Changes: It may take up to 48 hours for the changes to propagate globally.
For practical next steps, see how to manage your domain nameservers.
What happens when nameservers change?
Your domain’s delegation starts pointing to a different set of authoritative DNS servers. The new DNS provider must have the records needed by your website, email and any other services. This is why changing nameservers without copying records can interrupt mail even if the website itself appears to load.
Record the existing A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT and relevant verification records before making changes. After the switch, check both web access and email delivery. Our DNS checklist explains the preparation.