How Do I Point My Domain to a VPS or External IP?

Introduction

Pointing your domain to a VPS or an external IP allows your website to resolve to a server you control outside your domain registrar’s default hosting. By updating DNS settings properly, you can ensure your website traffic is directed to your VPS or external server without downtime.

Understanding Domain and VPS/IP Mapping

When a user types your domain name in a browser, DNS records determine which IP address to connect to. The A record (Address record) is primarily used to point your domain to an IP address. For email services, MX records may also need configuration.

Prerequisites Before Updating DNS

You have access to your domain registrar’s control panel.
You know your VPS or external server IP address.
Any firewall or server settings are configured to accept traffic from your domain.
(Optional) You have a backup of existing DNS records.

How to Point Your Domain to a VPS or External IP

Step 1: Log in to Your Domain Control Panel

Go to your domain registrar (e.g., BigCloudy, GoDaddy, Namecheap). Open the DNS Management section.

Step 2: Update the A Record

Locate your domain’s A record. Edit the record or create a new one:

Host: @ (represents your root domain)
Points to: Enter your VPS or external IP address
TTL: You can keep the default value or set it between 300 and 14400 seconds to allow faster DNS propagation, then save your changes.
For www, update or add a CNAME pointing to your root domain, or create another A record pointing to the same IP.

Name	TTL	Type	Address
domain.com	14400	A	123.12.123.12
www.domain.com	14400	CNAME	domain.com
www.domain.com	14400	A	123.12.123.13

Step 3: Check Nameservers

Ensure your domain uses the correct nameservers. If using an external DNS provider, all records should be added there.

Verify DNS Changes

After updating:

Use DNS Checker to confirm your A record is pointing to the correct IP globally.
Allow up to 24–48 hours for full propagation.
Test your website on different networks or devices.

Notes

TTL: Set low TTL (e.g., 300 seconds) for initial changes.
Backup DNS: Save current DNS records before updating.
Email Services: Ensure MX and SPF/TXT records remain unchanged.
Server Configuration: Make sure your VPS or server accepts requests for your domain.
Propagation: Some users may still see old records temporarily.

Confirm your purchase by clicking “Continue” button.

Conclusion

Pointing your domain to a VPS or external IP is a straightforward process if DNS records are updated correctly. By properly configuring the A record, checking nameservers, and monitoring propagation, your website can reliably resolve to your VPS or external server without downtime.

Need Help?

If you require assistance at any point while using this guide, our Support Team is here to help:

Email: support@bigcloudy.com
Submit a support ticket

FAQ

How long does it take for my domain to point to the new IP?

Typically 4–24 hours, depending on TTL and DNS propagation.

Can I point my domain to multiple IPs?

Yes, by adding multiple A records. Traffic may be distributed via DNS round-robin.

Will my email stop working?

Not if MX and related DNS records remain unchanged.

How can I verify my domain is pointing correctly?

Use DNS Checker to confirm your A record resolves to the correct IP.