This article explains the different types of DNS records and what they do for your website.
What Are DNS Records?
DNS records are instructions that tell the internet where to find your website and email. Think of them as a phone book that translates your domain name (like yourshop.ie) into the actual server addresses where your website lives.
When someone types your domain into their browser, DNS records guide them to the right place.
Common DNS Record Types
A Record
The A record points your domain to your website's server. It connects your domain name to an IP address (a series of numbers like 185.46.84.25).
Most websites need an A record for their main domain and one for "www" to work properly.
CNAME Record
CNAME records create aliases for your domain. They point one domain name to another domain name instead of an IP address.
For example, you might use a CNAME to point "shop.yoursite.ie" to "yoursite.ie" so both addresses show the same website.
MX Record
MX records handle email delivery. They tell other email servers where to send emails for your domain.
If you're having email problems with your custom domain, the MX records might be set incorrectly.
NS Record
NS (nameserver) records specify which DNS servers manage your domain. These are usually set by your domain registrar and don't need changing unless you're moving DNS management.
TXT Record
TXT records store text information about your domain. They're often used for:
- Proving you own the domain to services like Google
- Email security settings
- Website verification codes
When You Need to Change DNS Records
You might need to update DNS records when:
- Connecting your custom domain to Web60
- Setting up email services
- Adding third-party services that require domain verification
- Moving your website to a different hosting provider
Where to Manage Your DNS Records
DNS records are usually managed through your domain registrar (where you bought the domain) or your hosting provider. The location depends on where your nameservers point.
If you're unsure where your DNS is managed, check your domain registrar's control panel first.
Changes to DNS records can take up to 24 hours to work everywhere, though they often happen much faster.
If you're still stuck with DNS settings, contact our support team through your Web60 portal for help with your specific setup.
FAQ
Q: How long do DNS changes take to work?
A: DNS changes usually take 15 minutes to 4 hours to work fully, but can take up to 24 hours in rare cases. This delay is called propagation.
Q: What's the difference between A records and CNAME records?
A: A records point directly to an IP address (the server location). CNAME records point to another domain name, which then uses its own A record to find the IP address.
Q: Can I have multiple A records for the same domain?
A: Yes, you can have multiple A records pointing to different IP addresses. This is sometimes used for load balancing or backup servers.
Q: Do I need both www and non-www A records?
A: Yes, it's best practice to set up both so your website works whether visitors type "www.yoursite.ie" or just "yoursite.ie".
Q: What happens if my DNS records are wrong?
A: Wrong DNS records can make your website unreachable, break email delivery, or send visitors to the wrong place. Always double-check settings before saving changes.
Q: Can I see what DNS records my domain currently has?
A: Yes, you can check your current DNS records using online DNS lookup tools or through your domain registrar's control panel.
Last updated: 1 March 2026