Adding another domain to your existing hosting account is simple through cPanel's Addon Domains feature. This allows you to host multiple websites under one hosting plan, with each domain functioning independently with its own files and settings.
Steps to Add an Addon Domain in cPanel
Follow these steps to add a new domain to your hosting account:
- Log into your cPanel control panel using your credentials
- Locate and click on Addon Domains in the Domains section
- Complete the form with your new domain information
- Click Add Domain to finalize the process
Important Configuration Settings
Document Root Best Practice
When adding your domain, set the Document Root to the domain name only (for example: yourdomain.com), rather than the default public_html/yourdomain.com format. This ensures your new website runs completely independently and won't be affected by any settings or files in the main public_html folder. This separation provides better security and prevents potential conflicts between your websites.
FTP Account Setup
During the addon domain setup process, you can create a dedicated FTP username and password for the new domain. This is optional but recommended if you want separate FTP access for managing files on this specific domain without accessing your entire hosting account.
DNS Propagation and Going Live
After adding the domain in cPanel, you need to ensure the domain's nameservers or DNS records point to your OBHost hosting account. DNS propagation can take up to 24 hours to complete globally, though it often happens much faster. During this time, some visitors may see the old hosting location while others see your new site.
Setting Up Domain Redirects
If you want your new addon domain to simply redirect visitors to another website or domain, you don't need to upload any files. Instead, use the Redirects feature in cPanel after adding the domain. This is useful for forwarding multiple domains to one primary website or creating shortened URLs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many addon domains can I add to my hosting account?
The number of addon domains you can add depends on your specific hosting plan with OBHost. Check your plan details in your client area or contact our team to confirm your addon domain limit.
Do I need to register the domain before adding it as an addon domain?
Yes, you must own and have the domain registered before you can add it as an addon domain to your hosting account. The domain can be registered with any registrar.
Will my addon domain have its own email accounts?
Yes, each addon domain functions as a completely separate website with its own email accounts, databases, and file directories. You can create email addresses for your addon domain through the Email Accounts section in cPanel.
What's the difference between an addon domain and a parked domain?
An addon domain hosts a completely separate website with its own content and files, while a parked domain simply displays the same content as your primary domain. Use addon domains when you want distinct websites and parked domains when you want multiple domain names showing the same site.
If you need assistance adding domains to your hosting account or have questions about your plan's capabilities, our support team is available 24/7. Visit our contact page or email support@obhost.org for help.
