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How to Connect a Custom Domain to Your Web60 Website

Domain Management3 min read·

This article explains how to connect your custom domain name to your Web60 website.

Two Ways to Connect Your Domain

Web60 offers two methods to connect your domain. Choose the one that works best for your situation:

Method 1 (Recommended): Change Nameservers

  • Easiest setup - Web60 handles all DNS settings automatically
  • Works with all domain features
  • Takes 24-48 hours to complete

Method 2: Add A Record

  • Keep your current DNS provider
  • You manage other DNS settings yourself
  • Takes 30-60 minutes to activate
  1. Access Your Domain Settings

    • Go to Dashboard → [your site] → Domain
    • Select "Connect Domain"
    • Choose "Change Nameservers"
  2. Log Into Your Domain Registrar

    • This is where you originally bought your domain (like SmartHost, GoDaddy, or Namecheap)
    • Find the nameserver or DNS management section
  3. Update Your Nameservers

    • Change your nameservers to:
      • ns1.web60.ie
      • ns2.web60.ie
    • Save the changes at your registrar
  4. Wait for Processing

    • DNS changes take 24-48 hours to complete worldwide
    • Web60 automatically creates all necessary DNS records
    • You'll receive a confirmation email when everything is ready

Method 2: Using A Record

  1. Access Your Domain Settings

    • Go to Dashboard → [your site] → Domain
    • Select "Connect Domain"
    • Choose "Add A Record"
  2. Add the A Record

    • Log into your current DNS provider
    • Create a new A record:
      • Name: @ (or leave blank for root domain)
      • Value: 80.93.24.138
      • TTL: 3600 (or lowest available)
  3. Add WWW Record

    • Create another A record:
      • Name: www
      • Value: 80.93.24.138
      • TTL: 3600
  4. Confirm in Web60

    • Return to your Web60 dashboard
    • Web60 checks for your DNS changes every 30 minutes
    • You'll see a confirmation when the connection is detected

What Happens Next

Once Web60 confirms your DNS settings:

  • Your site is backed up automatically
  • A new hosting configuration is created for your domain
  • Your database and files are migrated
  • WordPress URLs are updated to your custom domain
  • An SSL certificate is installed for security
  • Your temporary smartsitebuilder.ie address is removed

Your site stays online throughout this process. There's no downtime during the migration.

Checking Your Connection Status

To see if your domain is connecting properly, visit Dashboard → [your site] → Domain. The page shows your current connection status and any remaining steps.

For detailed troubleshooting if your domain isn't working, see how to check if your domain has connected correctly.

If You're Still Stuck

If your domain isn't connecting after 48 hours, or you're unsure which method to choose, contact Web60 support through your dashboard. Include your domain name and which connection method you tried.

Frequently asked questions

Which connection method should I choose?

Use nameservers (Method 1) unless you need to keep other services like email with your current DNS provider. Nameservers are more reliable and easier to manage.

How long does domain connection take?

Nameserver changes take 24-48 hours. A record changes are usually detected within 30-60 minutes, but DNS propagation can take up to 24 hours worldwide.

Will my website go offline during domain connection?

No. Your site stays online on its temporary address until the domain migration completes successfully.

Can I connect a domain I bought elsewhere?

Yes. You can connect any domain name regardless of where you registered it. You just need access to change the nameservers or DNS settings.

What if I make a mistake with the DNS settings?

DNS changes are reversible. If something goes wrong, you can change the settings back and try again. Contact support if you need help fixing DNS issues.

Do I need to update anything in WordPress after connecting my domain?

No. Web60 automatically updates all WordPress settings to use your new domain name during the migration process.

Last updated: 26 March 2026