> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.hostinger.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.hostinger.com/getting-started/connecting-a-domain.md).

# Connecting a Domain

Point your domain to Hostinger so visitors can reach your site.

> **Note:** DNS changes can take up to 24–48 hours to propagate globally, though most take effect within a few hours.

## Method 1: Update nameservers (recommended)

Delegates all DNS to Hostinger. Best for most cases.

Hostinger now assigns **unique nameservers per site** — they are not the same for every account, so don't copy values from another guide. Always pull yours from hPanel before changing anything at your registrar:

1. In hPanel, open **Websites** and select your site.
2. Next to the temporary domain (or the "Domain not connected" notice), click **Check guide**.
3. Copy the two nameserver values shown.

Then at your registrar:

1. Log in to your domain registrar.
2. Open DNS or Nameserver settings.
3. Replace the existing nameservers with the values from hPanel.
4. Save.

> If your domain is registered with Hostinger on the same account, nameservers are already configured — no action needed.

## Method 2: A record only

Keep DNS at your current registrar and only point web traffic to Hostinger.

1. In hPanel, open your website dashboard and copy your hosting IP.
2. At your registrar, add these records:

   | Type | Name  | Value             |
   | ---- | ----- | ----------------- |
   | A    | `@`   | Your Hostinger IP |
   | A    | `www` | Your Hostinger IP |

## Using a free subdomain

No domain yet? Use a free `*.hostingersite.com` subdomain — assigned instantly, no DNS needed.

1. During website creation, select **Free subdomain**.
2. Hostinger generates one for you.
3. Your site is live immediately.

Replace it with a custom domain any time.

## Verifying domain ownership

If you need to prove ownership (e.g., via API), see the domain verification endpoints in the [API reference](https://developers.hostinger.com/).

## After connecting

* [Enable SSL](/websites/ssl.md) for HTTPS
* [Configure DNS records](/domains/dns.md) for email, subdomains, or third-party services

***

*Last updated: July 21, 2026*