If you want to connect your domain to a hosting server, website builder, or another online service, you may need to add an A record. An A record is a type of DNS record that connects a domain name to an IPv4 address.
If you are wondering how to add A record in Hostinger, the process is simple. You only need access to your Hostinger account and the correct IP address provided by your hosting or service provider.
In this guide, you will learn how to add an A record in Hostinger step by step.
What Is an A Record?
An A record, also known as an Address record, points a domain or subdomain to an IPv4 address. For example, when someone enters your domain name into a browser, the A record helps direct the request to the correct server.
A typical A record contains three important details:
- Name: The domain or subdomain you want to point.
- Type: A.
- Points to: The IPv4 address of the destination server.
Before making any changes, make sure you have the correct IP address. Using the wrong address can cause your website or service to stop working properly.
How to Add A Record in Hostinger
Follow these steps to add an A record through Hostinger.
1. Log In to Hostinger
First, open the Hostinger website and sign in to your account. Use the email address and password associated with your hosting account.
After logging in, open your Hostinger control panel.
2. Open Your Domain
From the Hostinger dashboard, find the domain you want to configure. Open the domain management section and look for the DNS or DNS records option.
The exact menu name can vary slightly depending on the current Hostinger interface.
3. Find the DNS Records Section
Open the DNS management page. You should see a list of existing records for your domain.
These records can include A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, and other DNS record types.
Look for the option to add a new DNS record.
4. Select A Record
Choose A as the record type.
You will normally see fields such as Name, Target or Points to, and TTL.
For the root domain, the Name field is commonly entered as @. However, follow the format shown in your Hostinger DNS editor.
5. Enter the IP Address
In the destination or Points to field, enter the IPv4 address provided by your hosting provider or external service.
For example, an IPv4 address may look like:
192.0.2.1
Do not use this example address for your actual website. Always enter the IP address provided for your specific service.
6. Set the TTL
TTL means Time to Live. It determines how long DNS information can be cached.
If Hostinger provides an automatic or default TTL value, you can usually leave it unchanged unless your service provider gives you different instructions.
7. Save the Record
After checking the information, click the Add Record, Save, or similar button.
Your new A record should then appear in the DNS records list.
How Long Does an A Record Take to Work?
DNS changes are not always visible immediately. After adding or changing an A record, DNS servers and internet providers may need time to update their cached information.
In some cases, the change can appear quickly. However, DNS propagation can take longer depending on caching and TTL settings.
Therefore, do not immediately assume that something is wrong if your website does not load from the new server.
Common A Record Mistakes
There are several mistakes you should avoid when adding an A record.
First, make sure you enter the correct IP address. A single incorrect number can send visitors to the wrong server.
Second, avoid creating conflicting A records unless your service specifically requires multiple addresses.
Finally, check that you are editing the correct domain. Making DNS changes to another domain will not affect the website you are trying to configure.
For additional information, you can also review this Hostinger DNS record setup guide when managing other DNS settings.
Final Thoughts
Adding an A record in Hostinger is straightforward once you understand the different DNS fields. You need to select the A record type, enter the correct name, provide the destination IPv4 address, and save the changes.
Afterward, allow some time for DNS propagation. If your website still does not work, verify the IP address and check for conflicting DNS records.
By following these steps carefully, you can point your domain to the correct server without unnecessary complications.
