Help CenterWhen you purchase a new domain and find that it is still inactive, it can be frustrating. However, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and get your domain up and running. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Verify Domain Registration
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Check Registration Status: Use a WHOIS lookup tool to confirm that your domain is registered in your name and that the registration is active.
- Confirmation Email: Ensure you have received a confirmation email from your domain registrar. This email often contains important information about your domain.
Step 2: Check DNS Settings
- Access DNS Management: Log in to your domain registrar’s control panel and navigate to the DNS management section.
- Set Up Name Servers: Ensure that your domain is pointing to the correct name servers. If you are using a web hosting service, you may need to update the name servers to those provided by your host.
- DNS Propagation: Remember that DNS changes can take up to 48 hours to propagate. If you’ve just made changes, it may take some time for them to take effect.
Step 3: Configure Hosting
- Link Domain to Hosting: This usually involves updating the name servers or adding the domain to your hosting account. You need to have hosting.
Step 4: Upload Website Files
- Create Website Content: If you haven’t done so, create or upload your website files to your hosting account. This can be done via FTP or through CPanel that comes with your hosting package. There are also available web templates you can edit in CPanel.
- Check for Default Pages: If you have uploaded files, ensure that there is an index.html or index.php file in the root directory, as this is typically the default file that loads when someone visits your domain.
Step 5: Test Your Domain
- Access Your Domain: After making the necessary changes, try accessing your domain in a web browser. If it still doesn’t work, clear your browser cache or try accessing it from a different device or network.
- Use Online Tools: Utilize online tools to check if your domain is resolving correctly. Tools like "Down For Everyone Or Just Me" can help determine if the issue is on your end or with the domain itself.