How to Manage DNS Records from cPanel (A Beginner’s Guide to Zone Editor)
Managing your DNS records is essential when connecting services like email, subdomains, or third-party tools. With cPanel’s Zone Editor, you can easily add, edit, or delete DNS records without needing advanced DNS knowledge.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to manage DNS records in cPanel — including A, CNAME, MX, and TXT records — and when to use each one.
✅ What Are DNS Records?
DNS (Domain Name System) records control how your domain is connected to servers, services, and applications. Some common types include:
- A Record: Points your domain to a server’s IP address
- CNAME Record: Alias for another domain or subdomain
- MX Record: Routes email to the correct mail server
- TXT Record: Used for verification, SPF, DKIM, etc.
- SRV / AAAA / NS: Advanced DNS settings
🚀 How to Access DNS Zone Editor in cPanel
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Use your hosting access URL (e.g., yourdomain.com:2083) and log in with your credentials.
Step 2: Open Zone Editor
Scroll to the Domains section and click Zone Editor.
You’ll see a list of domains and actions next to them:
- + A Record
- + CNAME Record
- + MX Record
- Manage (for full control)
🛠️ How to Add or Edit DNS Records
Click Manage next to your domain to view all DNS entries.
1. Add a Record
- Click + Add Record
- Choose the record type (A, CNAME, MX, TXT)
- Fill in the required fields:
- Name: The subdomain or “@” for root
- TTL: Time to live (default is fine)
- Record: IP address or domain value
Click Save Record
2. Edit an Existing Record
- Click Edit next to the record
- Modify the value as needed
- Click Save Record
3. Delete a Record
- Use the Delete button next to any record to remove it permanently
📥 Common DNS Use Cases
| Use Case | Record Type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Point domain to a server | A Record | yourdomain.com → 123.456.78.90 |
| Use Google Workspace Email | MX Record | mail handled by aspmx.l.google.com |
| Connect to Shopify or Wix | CNAME Record | www → shops.myplatform.com |
| Verify domain with Google or Facebook | TXT Record | google-site-verification=abc123... |
💡 Always double-check formatting and avoid duplicate entries for the same subdomain.
🔄 DNS Changes and Propagation
- Changes usually take 5 minutes to 1 hour, but can take up to 48 hours globally.
- Use dnschecker.org to monitor propagation status.
⚠️ Important Tips
- Never delete NS records or main A records unless instructed
- Back up your DNS records before making major changes
- Be cautious when editing MX records — incorrect values can break your email service
The cPanel Zone Editor puts full DNS control in your hands, whether you’re setting up custom mail, pointing your site to a different host, or verifying ownership with search engines. With a little attention to detail, you can master DNS without needing a sysadmin.
Need help configuring a DNS record or troubleshooting domain issues? Our support team is here to help — just reach out anytime.