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How Do I Add Records to My Google Domain?

Published in Google Domains 3 mins read

To add records to your Google Domain, you need to access your domain's DNS settings and add the desired record type. Here's a general overview of the process, but the specific steps may vary depending on the type of record you are adding:

  1. Go to your domain's DNS records: This typically involves logging into your Google Domains account.

  2. Add a record: Within the DNS settings, find the option to add a new DNS record.

  3. Select the record type: Choose the appropriate record type (e.g., A, CNAME, MX, TXT) from the dropdown menu. Each record type serves a different purpose:

    • A Record: Maps a domain name to an IPv4 address.
    • AAAA Record: Maps a domain name to an IPv6 address.
    • CNAME Record: Creates an alias of one domain name to another.
    • MX Record: Specifies the mail server responsible for accepting email messages on behalf of a domain.
    • TXT Record: Holds text-based information for your domain, often used for verification or other purposes.
    • SPF Record: Specifies which mail servers are authorized to send email on behalf of your domain.
    • SRV Record: Specifies a service, its location (host and port), priority, and weight.
    • CAA Record: Specifies which Certificate Authorities are allowed to issue certificates for a domain.
  4. Enter the necessary information: Each record type requires different information. For example, if you are adding a CNAME record, you'll need to specify the hostname/label and the target domain. In this case, if instructed:

    • Copy the contents of the Label/Host field from the service you're integrating with.
    • Paste the copied contents into the Label or Host field when adding the CNAME record in your Google Domains DNS settings.
  5. Save the changes: After entering all the required information, save the new record. It may take some time for the changes to propagate across the internet (usually within 24-48 hours).

Example: Adding a CNAME record

Let's say you need to add a CNAME record to verify your domain with a third-party service like Shopify or Mailchimp. They might provide you with a "Host/Name/Label" value and a "Target/Value/Points To" value.

Field Description Example
Type The type of DNS record you're adding. CNAME
Name/Host The subdomain or hostname you're creating an alias for. verify.yourdomain.com (or just verify)
Value/Points To The domain name that the hostname points to. shops.shopify.com
TTL Time To Live; the amount of time the DNS record is cached by other servers. The default is fine in most cases. 3600

Steps:

  1. Log in to your Google Domains account.
  2. Select your domain.
  3. Click on "DNS."
  4. Scroll down to "Custom resource records."
  5. Enter the required information based on the table above.
  6. Click "Add."

Important Considerations:

  • Be careful when editing DNS records. Incorrect settings can disrupt your website or email service.
  • Propagation Time: Changes to DNS records can take up to 48 hours to propagate worldwide.
  • Consult your service provider's documentation for specific instructions on which records to add and what values to use.

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