CNAME Record

A CNAME record creates an alias from one hostname to another. It is commonly used for www, subdomains, and SaaS integrations where the provider controls the target.

How CNAME works

A CNAME points to another hostname, which then resolves to A or AAAA. Use the CNAME lookup tool to verify the alias target and confirm the final A/AAAA answers.

Common mistakes

  • Using CNAME at the apex when the provider does not support ALIAS/ANAME.
  • Leaving old CNAMEs after changing providers.
  • Creating long CNAME chains that add latency.

How to check CNAME online

Run the CNAME lookup, then validate the target with the A record tool or the AAAA record check. For propagation issues, compare multiple resolvers using the DNS propagation check.

Related records

CNAME often pairs with A and AAAA. For delegation questions, see the NS guide.