DNS A records
An A record points a hostname such as example.co.uk to an IPv4 address
The record tells DNS which IPv4 server should receive traffic for that hostname. It does not upload a website, issue SSL or control incoming email. Use the exact IP supplied by the website provider and preserve unrelated records.
How do you change an A record safely?
Follow the sequence and stop before any step that does not match the service shown in your UKC account.
- 1Confirm where DNS is managed
The authoritative nameservers identify the live DNS provider. Edit the record there, not automatically at the registrar.
- 2Identify the exact hostname
The root domain, www and a subdomain such as shop are separate names and may use different record types.
- 3Enter the provider’s IPv4 address
Use the exact dotted address supplied for the destination. Do not copy an example IP from a guide.
- 4Verify DNS, web and SSL
Check that the hostname resolves to the new address, that the server knows the domain and that its certificate covers it.
How does an A record differ from other DNS records?
Choose the record type that matches the destination and do not create conflicting records for the same hostname.
A record
Maps a hostname to an IPv4 address, such as 192.0.2.10.
AAAA record
Maps a hostname to an IPv6 address. Remove it only when the destination provider explicitly says its IPv6 route is incompatible.
CNAME record
Aliases one hostname to another hostname. It is commonly used for www or service-specific subdomains.
MX record
Directs incoming email. Changing a website A record does not automatically move mailbox delivery.
| Field | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Type | A | IPv4 address record |
| Name | @ or blank | The root domain in many DNS panels |
| Value | Provider supplied IPv4 | The destination server |
| TTL | Panel default | How long resolvers may cache it |
Common questions
Should www also have an A record?
It depends on the provider. www may use an A record or a CNAME. Follow the exact destination instructions.
Why does the old website still appear?
Resolvers, browsers and CDNs can cache the earlier route. Check authoritative DNS and wait for the applicable TTL.
Does an A record affect email?
Not normally, but mail can depend on hostnames that themselves resolve through A or AAAA records. Review the complete zone.
Can two A records use the same name?
Yes for some load-balancing designs, but do it only when the provider supplies both addresses. Otherwise results may alternate unexpectedly.
Ready to point the site?
Use the exact provider IP and keep the previous value
Make one controlled DNS change, then test the public hostname and SSL.