Getting Started Checklist - Everything You Need to Do First

New to dotCanada? This checklist covers every important task to complete when you are just getting started. Work through each item in order and you will have a fully functional website and email account in no time.

Your Getting Started Checklist

1. Check your welcome email - Find your cPanel credentials, nameservers, and server details. Save this email somewhere safe.
2. Log into your client area - Visit clients.dotcanada.com and log in with your account email and password.
3. Log into cPanel - Access your hosting control panel from the client area with a single click.
4. Find your nameservers - Note your nameservers (typically ns1.dotcanada.com and ns2.dotcanada.com).
5. Update your nameservers - If your domain is registered elsewhere, log into your registrar and point your domain to dotCanada.
6. Wait for DNS propagation - Allow up to 24 hours for nameserver changes to take effect worldwide.
7. Add any additional domains - Use Addon Domains in cPanel if you plan to host more than one website.
8. Install WordPress or upload your site - Use Softaculous in cPanel to install WordPress, launch SiteJet Website Builder, or upload files via File Manager or FTP.
9. Create your first email address - Go to Email Accounts in cPanel and set up a professional address using your domain.
10. Test your webmail - Log into Roundcube at webmail.yourdomain.com to confirm your email is working.
11. Confirm your SSL certificate is active - dotCanada provides free Let's Encrypt SSL for all hosted domains. Check that https:// works on your site.
12. Review your JetBackup settings - dotCanada performs automatic daily backups with 30-day retention. Familiarise yourself with how to restore files if needed.
13. Bookmark the client area and cPanel - Save these links for easy access going forward.
14. Explore the knowledgebase - Browse our help articles to learn more about managing your hosting account.
15. Say hello to support - Our Canadian team is available 24/7. Contact our support team any time you have a question.

That is it - you are all set! Welcome to dotCanada.