What is an A record?
An A record is a DNS entry connecting a name to an IPv4 address. A hosting supplier may ask your DNS administrator to set one when connecting a domain. It identifies a network destination; it does not upload your website, create a certificate or automatically configure business email.
Useful context
- Have the connection instructions issued by your actual hosting provider.
- Know which account manages DNS and who can approve changes.
How it works
Read the name field
The name identifies which part of the domain the entry applies to. A provider may display the main domain as @, while another entry could relate to a subdomain. Read the provider’s notation rather than assuming a field called host means the hosting company’s name.
Read the destination field
An IPv4 address looks like four numbers separated by dots. It is not a complete address beginning https:// and does not include /contact. Only use the destination supplied for your website; an example in a guide is not a working address for your business.
Understand the surrounding records
A domain may also have an AAAA record for IPv6 or a separate www entry. These need a coherent plan. Ask the administrator to check both routes rather than adding another A record whenever one version of the site looks wrong.
Separate connection from delivery
After an authorised change, the host must still serve the expected website for your domain. HTTPS and forms need their own checks. A correct-looking DNS value alone does not prove the full website is ready for customers or that its email notifications arrive.
What to check
- The intended hostname and destination match the provider’s instructions.
- The change has been checked against existing records.
- The actual public website is verified afterwards.
Sources and further reading
Platform features can change. Check the provider’s current guidance before changing a live service.