Connect a Domain Name via the Websites Tab

Learning how to connect a domain name to a hosting account ensures your website becomes visible online when someone types in your domain. In this guide, you'll learn how to add a new domain or link an existing one using the Websites tab in your HostGator Customer Portal.

Here are the topics discussed in this article.

• Connect a Domain Name  ⤵
• Common Issues When Connecting a Domain Name  ⤵

Connect a Domain Name

1. Log in to your Customer Portal.
2. Click on the Websites tab from the main navigation menu.

   

3. You can connect a domain in two ways: by creating a new website or by linking it to an existing one.

Option 1: Add a Domain While Creating a New Site

1. Click Add Site.

   

2. It will direct you to the Hosting tab. Select the package where you want to install the new site.
3. Select Manage.

   

4. Click Add Site.

   

5. Follow the guided steps to set up your site.
6. When prompted, enter the domain you want to connect to.
7. Enter the domain you want to connect to and complete the setup.

   

Option 2: Add a Domain to an Existing Site

1. Locate the website to which you want to add the domain.
2. Click Settings next to the site.

   

3. In the Site Information section, choose:
   • Connect domain (if this is your first time) and then proceed to step 5 or.

     

   • Manage (to add another domain) and then proceed to step 4.

     

4. Click Add Domain.

   

5. Enter a domain name to connect.

   

6. Enter the domain name and click Continue to confirm.

Common Issues When Connecting a Domain Name

Issue 1: Domain Not Found or Unavailable
✔ Check for typos or registration status. Make sure the domain is active and not expired.

Issue 2: DNS Not Propagated
✔ Allow 24–48 hours for DNS changes to propagate. Use tools like What's My DNS to track progress.

Issue 3: Domain Not Pointed to Correct Nameservers
✔ Update your domain's nameservers to point to HostGator. Refer to your registrar or our nameserver guide.

Issue 4: Domain Already Connected to Another Site
✔ Disconnect the domain from the other hosting account or contact support to free it up.

Issue 5: Transfer Still in Progress
✔ Wait until the domain transfer (typically 5–7 days) is complete before connecting.

Related Articles

• Choosing Your Domain Name
• Registering a Domain Name with HostGator
• How do I point my existing domain to HostGator?
• Transfer Domain Name Registrations to HostGator
• What is DNS Propagation?