Managing a domain can seem confusing, especially when it comes to changing nameservers. If you’ve registered a .np domain (check how to register for free) and want to point it to a different hosting provider or set up services like Cloudflare, you’ll need to update your nameservers. Don’t worry—it's easier than you think!
In this guide, I’ll Walk you through the process step by step.
What Are Nameservers?
Before diving in, let’s clarify what nameservers are. Nameservers act as a bridge between your domain name (e.g., yoursite.com.np) and the server where your website is hosted. By changing nameservers, you tell the internet where to find your website’s data.
Why Change Nameservers?
You may need to change nameservers when:
- You switch hosting providers.
- You’re using services like Cloudflare for security or performance.
- You want more control over your domain’s DNS settings.
Steps to Change or Modify Nameservers for a .np Domain
Here’s a simple guide to updating the nameservers for your .np domain:
Log In to Your Registrar’s Account
First, log in to the website. The official site for managing .np domains is Mercantile.
Find Active Domain Section
After logging in, go to the "Active Domain" section. Here, you’ll see a list of the domains you own. Click on the domain name that you want to update.
Look for Edit DNS or Nameserver Settings
Once you’re on the domain’s dashboard, look for an option that says, "Edit DNS".
Update the Nameservers
You’ll see fields labelled "Primary Nameserver", "Secondary Nameserver". Enter the nameservers provided by your hosting company or service like Cloudflare.
For example:
- Nameserver 1:
ns1.yourhost.com - Nameserver 2:
ns2.yourhost.com
Click For: Name server example
Make sure the nameservers are accurate. If you’re using Cloudflare, they’ll provide you with the nameservers after setup.
Save Your Changes
After entering the correct nameservers, click "Edit DNS" button to apply the changes.
Wait for DNS Propagation
Your changes won’t take effect immediately. DNS propagation usually takes between 24-48 hours, although it can happen faster. During this time, your domain may not resolve properly, so be patient.
NP domains will process the modification within a day or two. You'll be notified via email once the change is successfully implemented.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Incorrect Nameservers: Double-check that the nameservers are entered correctly. Even a small typo can cause issues.
- Propagation Delay: If your site doesn’t seem to be working right after the change, wait a few hours and check again.
- Domain Locked: Ensure your domain isn’t locked by your registrar, which could prevent changes from being made.
Conclusion
Changing or modifying nameservers for a .np domain is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can easily point your domain to a new host or set up additional services. Just remember to give it some time for the changes to take effect!
Need more help? Feel free to reach out in the comments!