How To Connect A Domain


To publish the site on a live domain, please follow this 2 step process: 

  1. STEP 1 (this article): Point the domain to us through the domain registrar (Godaddy, NameCheap, etc) by using either the Nameserver Method or A Record Method. Please make sure to complete this step before moving on to STEP 2 linked below.

  2. STEP 2 (click here to view the article): Update the domain of the site in the Domain Manager


IMPORTANT NOTE: Please make sure to do both of the steps above to complete the process of publishing the website on the live domain.


Why Do I Need To Connect My Domain?


A new Brilliant Directories website is initially provided with a "Staging URL," which serves as a temporary URL during the site-building phase. This allows the website to be developed without affecting the final domain and prevents premature indexing by search engines. 


Connecting a live domain offers several advantages, including a more professional appearance, enhanced branding, and improved SEO visibility. It allows for the creation of custom email addresses, full control over DNS settings, and secure HTTPS connections. A live domain also makes the website publicly accessible, integrates with analytics tools, and builds trust with visitors, making it essential for launching a successful online presence.

 


Key Considerations Before Connecting Your Domain


  • Update the domain's nameservers or A Record before connecting the domain. Failing to do so will prevent the website from being visible after the domain is connected.


  • For domains using third-party email services (e.g., Google Workspace, Office 365) and to avoid any email interruptions, it is recommended to use the A Record method. This allows the existing email setup to remain intact while connecting the domain.

    NOTE: There are known issues with GoDaddy Email Services and we do not recommend using them for the emails.

  • Propagation Time: After the domain is updated, it may take up to 48 hours for the new domain to fully propagate. Check the website’s status using a tool like GeoPeeker.


Connection Methods:


There are two primary methods for connecting a domain to a website:


  • Nameserver Method: This is the easiest and most recommended option. By updating the domain’s nameservers, all DNS management (including email and other settings) is transferred to the new hosting provider’s servers.


  • A Record Method: This method allows more control over specific DNS settings, such as email management. It’s ideal for users who want to keep their current email services while connecting the domain to the website by pointing only the A Record (IP address).



Nameserver Method


EASIEST: This is the recommended method to update the domain.


This method is also described in the Settings > Domain Manager Domain Name > Nameserver Method



To connect the domain with this method. Change the nameservers to the following URLs:

  • ns1.directorysecure.com
  • ns2.directorysecure.com

Update Nameservers Helpful Links:


IMPORTANT: Changing the nameservers will transfer all DNS management, including email services, to the servers. To retain an existing custom email setup, consider using the A Record method instead. 


A Record Method


This method is preferred when you need to keep your existing email services intact or when using a subdomain. Connect the domain by pointing the domain's A Record to its assigned IP Address. 


To find out which IP to point the A record to, please go to SETTINGS >> DOMAIN MANAGER. Scroll to the "A Record" section. 


The IP address will show here. Please note that the IP address will vary depending on the server that the website is on:



Helpful Links on How to add an ARecord:

STEP 2


CONTINUE TO STEP 2 (click here)