How to Set Up a Subdomain Using DNS

A subdomain is a prefix added to your main domain name - like blog.example.ca or shop.example.ca. Subdomains are created using DNS records and can point to a different server, folder, or third-party service than your root domain.

Choosing the Right Record Type

• Use an A record if you want the subdomain to point to a specific IP address.
• Use a CNAME record if you want the subdomain to alias to another hostname (e.g., a Shopify store or an external service).

How to Add a Subdomain A Record in cPanel

1. Log in to cPanel and go to Domains > Zone Editor.
2. Click Manage next to your domain.
3. Click Add Record and select A from the Type dropdown.
4. In the Name field, enter the subdomain prefix (e.g., blog - cPanel will append your domain automatically).
5. Enter the IPv4 address you want the subdomain to point to.
6. Click Add Record to save.

How to Add a Subdomain CNAME Record

1. Follow steps 1–3 above but select CNAME as the record type.
2. In the Name field, enter the subdomain prefix (e.g., shop).
3. In the Record field, enter the destination hostname (e.g., stores.myshopify.com).
4. Click Add Record to save.

Do Subdomains Need to Be Created in cPanel's Subdomains Tool?

If the subdomain points to your existing hosting account, you may also want to create it under Domains > Subdomains in cPanel to assign it a directory. For external-pointing subdomains (like to Shopify or a different server), only a DNS record is needed.

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