How to Fix DNS Configuration Issues
This guide helps you fix common DNS issues such as domains not resolving, DNS propagation delays, and incorrect DNS records.
Common DNS Issues
Domain Not Loading
DNS not pointing to the correct server.
DNS Propagation Delay
Changes can take up to 24–48 hours worldwide.
Incorrect Records
A, CNAME, or MX records may be misconfigured.
Email Not Working
Incorrect MX or SPF records can break email delivery.
Step-by-Step Fix
Check Nameservers
Correct Nameservers
Use the nameservers provided in your hosting welcome email.
Update at Registrar
Change nameservers where your domain is registered.
Check DNS Records
A Record
Points your domain to your server IP.
CNAME Record
Used for subdomains like www.
MX Record
Controls email routing.
TXT Record
Used for SPF, DKIM, verification.
Where to Manage DNS
cPanel
Domains → Zone Editor
DirectAdmin
Account Manager → DNS Management
External DNS
Manage via provider (e.g. Cloudflare).
Check DNS Propagation
Online Tools
Use DNS checker tools to verify propagation.
Clear Cache
Flush local DNS cache or try another device.
Wait
Allow up to 48 hours for full propagation.
Common Errors & Fixes
DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN
Nameservers or DNS not configured correctly.
Server IP Not Found
A record missing or incorrect.
Email Not Receiving
MX records incorrect or missing.
Old Site Showing
Propagation delay or cached DNS.
Common DNS Records (Examples)
Replace values with your actual domain and server details.
| Type | Name | Value | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | @ | 123.123.123.123 | Points domain to server |
| CNAME | www | yourdomain.com | Maps www to domain |
| MX | @ | mail.yourdomain.com | Handles email |
| TXT | @ | v=spf1 a mx ip4:123.123.123.123 ~all | SPF protection |
Copy & Paste DNS Templates
Website Setup
A @ 123.123.123.123
CNAME www yourdomain.com
Email Setup
MX @ mail.yourdomain.com 10
A mail 123.123.123.123
SPF Record
TXT @ v=spf1 a mx ip4:123.123.123.123 ~all
DKIM Example
TXT default._domainkey v=DKIM1; k=rsa; p=YOURKEY
Quick Fix Checklist
- ✔ Nameservers correct
- ✔ A record correct
- ✔ MX records correct
- ✔ Propagation complete
