Adding DNS records to Cloudflare is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through the Cloudflare dashboard. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Steps to Add DNS Records
- Log in to your Cloudflare account: Access the Cloudflare dashboard using your login credentials and select the specific account and domain you wish to manage.
- Navigate to DNS Records: Once logged in and your domain is selected, locate and click on the "DNS" section within the dashboard. This section allows you to manage your domain's DNS records.
- Initiate Adding a Record: Select the "Add record" button, which will be located in the DNS Records section. This action will open a form that allows you to configure a new DNS record.
- Choose the record type: Use the dropdown to specify the type of DNS record you wish to create. Here are some common record types:
- A: Maps a hostname to an IPv4 address.
- AAAA: Maps a hostname to an IPv6 address.
- CNAME: Maps a hostname to another hostname.
- MX: Specifies the mail servers responsible for accepting email on behalf of a domain.
- TXT: Allows you to store text-based information, often used for verification purposes.
- SRV: Specifies the location of servers for specific services.
- NS: Specifies the name servers for a domain or subdomain.
- Fill in the required fields: Depending on the chosen record type, you will need to complete specific fields. For instance:
- Name: Enter the hostname for the record (e.g.,
www,@for root domain,subdomain). - Content/Value: Enter the target IP address, hostname, or text string, depending on the record type.
- TTL (Time To Live): Specifies how long the record is cached by DNS servers. Usually set to "Auto."
- Proxy Status (Cloudflare Proxy): Choose whether to enable Cloudflare’s proxy services which provide speed and security benefits (orange cloud) or have it go direct to origin server (grey cloud).
- Save the Record: Finally, click on the "Save" button to add the new DNS record to your domain’s configuration. Your changes will be propagated across the Cloudflare network.
Example Scenario
Let’s say you want to add an A record for www.example.com pointing to 192.0.2.1. Here’s what you’d do:
| Field | Input |
|---|---|
| Type | A |
| Name | www |
| Content | 192.0.2.1 |
| TTL | Auto |
| Proxy Status | (Choose desired proxy option) |
Additional Tips
- Propagation: It may take some time for DNS changes to propagate across the internet.
- Testing: After adding records, verify they are functioning correctly using online tools.
Adding DNS records through Cloudflare is a quick and simple process, and these steps will help you get up and running with any DNS configuration needs.
