Keep a clear record of a DNS change approval
A DNS approval record states exactly what is authorised to change and what must remain working. It turns a vague request to connect the website into a specific, checkable instruction. It should be prepared with the responsible administrator, not used as a template for guessing record values.
Before you start
- Identify the domain owner, DNS administrator and website or email provider involved.
- Obtain the destination requirements from the actual provider for your domain.
What to do
Describe the intended outcome
Write which domain or subdomain should reach which service. Say whether DNS management is moving or only particular records are changing. A website connection is not automatically approval to transfer the domain registration, replace mail settings or cancel an existing subscription.
Record the boundaries and dependencies
Ask the administrator to retain the current configuration securely and identify unaffected email, verification and other records. List linked services whose owners can test them. Keep the document specific to this change rather than granting open-ended permission to tidy up anything unfamiliar.
Agree timing and a recovery decision
Note the planned window, responsible person and next check. Cached DNS answers can outlast a record edit, depending on their TTL and earlier cached state. Agree what would trigger investigation or rollback and who is authorised to make that decision.
Close approval with evidence
Record who approved the change, when it was made and which checks passed afterwards. Website loading, HTTPS and email need their own relevant observations. Keep unresolved items visible and leave old services available until their dependencies and the transition outcome are understood.
What to check
- The record names the precise domain, change and authorised person.
- Unaffected services and rollback responsibilities are explicit.
- Post-change evidence is recorded separately from the original approval.
Sources and further reading
Platform features can change. Check the provider’s current guidance before changing a live service.