How to Add a CNAME Record

A CNAME record (Canonical Name record) creates an alias that points one domain name to another. Instead of pointing to an IP address like an A record does, a CNAME points to another hostname. This is useful when a service gives you a hostname rather than an IP address to point to.

Common Uses for CNAME Records

• Pointing www.example.ca to example.ca
• Setting up a custom subdomain for a third-party service (e.g., shop.example.ca to a Shopify store)
• Email autodiscover for services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365

How to Add a CNAME Record in cPanel

1. Log in to cPanel and navigate to Domains > Zone Editor.
2. Click Manage next to your domain.
3. Click Add Record and select CNAME from the Type dropdown.
4. In the Name field, enter the subdomain you're creating the alias for (e.g., www or shop).
5. In the Record field, enter the destination hostname (e.g., example.ca or stores.myshopify.com). Make sure it ends with a trailing dot if your Zone Editor requires fully qualified names (e.g., example.ca.).
6. Click Add Record to save.

Important Limitation

CNAMEs cannot be used on the root domain (e.g., you cannot set a CNAME for example.ca itself). If you need to point your root domain somewhere, use an A record instead. CNAMEs are only valid on subdomains.

If you're unsure what value to enter, check the instructions from the third-party service you're configuring, or contact our support team for help.