How to Add a New Domain or Subdomain in cPanel (Beginner-Friendly Guide)
Whether you’re managing multiple websites or creating separate sections like a blog or store, cPanel makes it easy to add new domains and subdomains to your hosting account.
In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to add a new domain and create a subdomain using cPanel.
✅ What’s the Difference Between Domains and Subdomains?
- Addon Domain: A completely separate website hosted under the same cPanel account.
Example:yournewdomain.com - Subdomain: A subsection of your main domain, often used for blogs, stores, or support portals.
Example:blog.yourdomain.com
🚀 How to Add a New Domain in cPanel
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Access your hosting account or go to your direct cPanel URL (e.g., yourdomain.com:2083).
Step 2: Locate the Domains Section
Click on Domains or, on some cPanel themes, it may say Addon Domains.
Step 3: Add a New Domain
- Click Create a New Domain.
- Enter your new domain name (e.g.,
yournewdomain.com). - cPanel will auto-generate the document root (usually
public_html/yournewdomain.com). You can customize this if needed. - Uncheck “Share Document Root” if you want it to be completely separate from the main domain.
Click Submit or Create Domain.
🌐 How to Add a Subdomain in cPanel
Step 1: Go to the Subdomains Section
In the Domains area, click on Subdomains.
Step 2: Create the Subdomain
- In the Subdomain field, type your prefix (e.g.,
blog). - Choose the main domain from the dropdown.
- The document root will be generated automatically (e.g.,
public_html/blog).
Click Create.
🧠 What Can You Do With Subdomains?
blog.yourdomain.com→ Company blogshop.yourdomain.com→ Online storesupport.yourdomain.com→ Help desk or knowledge basestaging.yourdomain.com→ Development or testing version of your site
⚠️ Don’t Forget DNS Settings
If your domain is managed outside your hosting provider, make sure you:
- Point the nameservers to your hosting provider
- Or update DNS A records to match your hosting server IP
Otherwise, the new domain or subdomain won’t resolve properly.
🛠️ Tips for Managing Domains in cPanel
- Each addon domain is like a separate website with its own folder
- You can install WordPress or any CMS under each domain or subdomain
- Organize folders clearly to avoid confusion (e.g.,
public_html/shop)
Adding domains and subdomains in cPanel is a straightforward process that allows you to expand your online presence without buying a new hosting plan. Whether it’s a new site or a sub-section of your main one, cPanel gives you the tools to manage it all in one place.
Need help with DNS setup or domain pointing? Reach out to our support team — we’re happy to assist!