Different DNS record types serve different jobs. Before adding or changing any record, confirm the exact name, type, value, and any priority or TTL settings required by the service you are connecting.
A record
An A record connects a hostname to an IPv4 address. For example, the root domain example.com might point to an IP address supplied by your website host. An AAAA record performs a similar role for IPv6 addresses.
CNAME record
A CNAME makes one hostname an alias of another hostname. For example, www.example.com may refer to example.com. A CNAME generally cannot coexist with other record types at the same exact hostname. Some DNS providers, including Cloudflare, support special handling for root-domain aliases.
MX record
An MX record identifies servers that accept incoming email for a domain. MX records can have priorities. They should match your actual email provider, whether that is cPanel email, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or another mail service.
TXT record
A TXT record stores text used for verification and email authentication. Common examples include:
- SPF: identifies approved email senders for a domain.
- DKIM: provides public-key information used to validate signed outgoing mail.
- DMARC: publishes domain-level policies and reporting instructions for email authentication.
- Verification tokens: prove domain control to external services.
If you use Cloudflare
Cloudflare can proxy eligible website-related A, AAAA, and CNAME records. Mail-related hostnames and records must be configured correctly for the mail service; do not assume an orange-cloud website setting applies to email.
Still need help?
Send support the instructions given by the service you are connecting and the domain name. Ask them to review the full existing DNS zone before modifying records that could affect your website or email.