Your domain name is your website's address — what people type into their browser, like yourbusiness.com. If you bought one from a company like Namecheap, GoDaddy, or OVH, this guide shows you how to connect it to your new ValoHosting website. It takes about ten minutes, and you only do it once. (New to these terms? Start with domain vs. hosting, explained.)
Before you start, find two things
- Your server address (IP address). A set of numbers like
203.0.113.10that identifies your website's new home. It's in your welcome email, and on your account page under Services → Service Details. - Your login for the company where you bought the domain.
Step 1: Log in where you bought your domain
Look for a section called "DNS Settings", "Advanced DNS", or "Manage DNS". (DNS is simply the internet's address book — it tells browsers where your website lives.)
Step 2: Add two address entries ("A records")
An A record is one line in the address book: "this name points to this server." Add or edit these two entries:
| Type | Host | Value | TTL |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Record | @ | your server address | Automatic |
| A Record | www | your server address | Automatic |
If an entry for @ or www already exists, edit it rather than adding a second one — most companies won't accept duplicates.
Step 3: Wait a little
Address changes spread across the internet gradually — usually minutes to a few hours, rarely up to a day or two. There's nothing you need to do while you wait.
Step 4: Check that it worked
Type your domain into a browser. If you see your website — done! If your site isn't built yet, a simple placeholder page is normal until you add it.
Still not working?
If it hasn't connected after 48 hours, message us on chat or open a ticket from your account page — tell us your domain name and where you bought it, and we'll sort it out with you.