DNS records control how your domain name connects to websites, email services, and other online services.

This guide explains how to manage DNS records using DirectAdmin.

What Is DNS?

DNS stands for:  Domain Name System

DNS converts domain names such as:  www.yourdomain.co.za

into server addresses used by websites and email systems.

Without DNS, websites and email services would not work correctly. Effectively DNS is a telephone directory for online services like websites, mail servers, etc.

Before You Start

Before changing DNS records, make sure:

• Your domain uses HostworX nameservers
• You understand what the DNS change is for
• You can log into DirectAdmin

If you have not logged in yet, please see:

• How to Log Into DirectAdmin

Important Warning

Incorrect DNS changes can cause:

• website downtime
• email problems
• SSL issues
• service interruptions

If you are unsure, contact HostworX support before making changes.

Common DNS Record Types

A Record

An A record points a domain or subdomain to an IP address.

Example:

yourdomain.co.za → 192.168.1.1

CNAME Record

A CNAME points one hostname to another hostname.

Example:

www.yourdomain.co.za → yourdomain.co.za

MX Record

MX records control email delivery for your domain.

They determine which mail server receives your email.

TXT Record

TXT records are commonly used for:

• SPF
• DKIM
• domain verification
• email security

SPF Record

SPF helps reduce email spoofing and improves email delivery.

How to Manage DNS Records

Step 1 — Log Into DirectAdmin

Open your browser and visit:  https://cp.yourdomain.co.za   (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name)

Enter your hosting username and password.

Step 2 — Open DNS Management

From the DirectAdmin dashboard:

Click:  Account Manager

Then click:  DNS Management

Step 3 — View Existing DNS Records

You will see a list of current DNS records for your domain.

These may include:

• A records
• MX records
• TXT records
• CNAME records

Step 4 — Add or Edit DNS Records

Depending on your requirements, you can:

• add new records
• edit existing records
• remove old records

Enter the required DNS values carefully.

Step 5 — Save the DNS Changes

Click: Add

The DNS changes will now begin propagating.

DNS Propagation

DNS changes are not always immediate.

Propagation may take:

• a few minutes
• several hours
• up to 24–48 hours in some cases

depending on internet providers and DNS caching.

Common DNS Tasks

Connecting a Website

Update A records to point domains to hosting servers.

Configuring Email Services

Update MX, SPF, DKIM, and TXT records for proper email delivery.

Verifying Domains

Many services require TXT records for:

• verification
• ownership confirmation
• SSL validation

Connecting Subdomains

Subdomains such as:

blog.yourdomain.co.za

often require DNS records.

Important Notes

Incorrect DNS Can Affect Email

Changing MX or SPF records incorrectly may stop email from working properly.

Keep Existing Records Unless Necessary

Avoid deleting records unless you fully understand their purpose.

DNS Changes May Cache

Even after updating DNS:

• browsers
• devices
• internet providers

may temporarily cache old records.

Troubleshooting

Website Not Loading After DNS Changes

Check:

• IP addresses
• spelling errors
• nameserver configuration
• DNS propagation status

Email Stops Working

Verify:

• MX records
• SPF records
• mail server settings

Incorrect email DNS settings are a common cause of delivery issues.

SSL Problems After DNS Changes

SSL certificates may fail if:

• DNS points incorrectly
• subdomains missing
• propagation incomplete

DNS Changes Not Visible Yet

Wait for DNS propagation to complete.

You may also:

• clear local DNS cache
• test from another network
• use online DNS lookup tools

Helpful Tips

Keep a Record of DNS Changes

Document important DNS modifications before making changes.

Make Small Changes Carefully

Avoid changing multiple important DNS records at once unless necessary.

Contact Support if Unsure

DNS mistakes can affect multiple services at the same time.

Security Tips

• Keep DNS access secure
• Use strong hosting passwords
• Avoid sharing account credentials
• Monitor email security records
• Remove unused DNS records