Change the Domain in Plesk, Its one of the most widely used web hosting control panels, offering an intuitive interface to manage websites, domains, and hosting services. Changing the domain in Plesk is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid disruptions to your website’s functionality. This blog will guide you through the steps of changing a domain in Plesk, ensuring a smooth transition.
Why Change the Domain in Plesk ?
There are several reasons you might want to Change the Domain in Plesk:
- Rebranding: Your business has undergone a name change, and you need to update your domain to reflect the new brand.
- Domain Upgrade: You’ve acquired a more professional or easy-to-remember domain.
- Correction: There was a typo in the original domain, and you need to fix it.
- Switching Focus: Your website’s content or purpose has shifted, requiring a Change the Domain in Plesk to align with new objectives.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Domain in Plesk
Follow these steps to change the domain in Plesk:
Step 1: Log In to Plesk
- Open your web browser and navigate to your Plesk login URL. This is typically something like
https://your-server-ip-or-domain:8443. - Enter your admin username and password.
Step 2: Navigate to the Domain Settings
- Once logged in, go to the Domains section.
- Locate the domain you wish to change the domain in Plesk. Click on it to access its settings.
Step 3: Edit the Domain Name
- In the domain settings, look for the Hosting & DNS option and click the Hosting option (the label may vary based on your Plesk version).
- Click on Change Domain Name or an equivalent option.
- Enter the new domain name in the provided field.
- Double-check the domain name for accuracy to avoid issues.
Step 4: Save Changes
- Click the OK or Save button to apply the change the domain in Plesk.
- Plesk will now update the domain settings. This process may take a few moments.
Step 5: Update DNS Settings
After changing the domain name in Plesk, you need to update your DNS records to point to the new domain. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your domain registrar’s control panel.
- Navigate to the DNS management section.
- Update the A record, CNAME record, and other relevant DNS settings to point to your server’s IP address.
- Save the changes. Note that DNS propagation can take up to 24-48 hours.
Step 6: Check Website Functionality
- Once the DNS updates are propagated, visit the new domain in your web browser.
- Verify that your website loads correctly and all functionalities are working as expected.
Step 7: Update Internal Links and Configuration
- Update any hardcoded URLs in your website’s content, such as links or images, to reflect the new domain.
- If you’re using a CMS like WordPress, update the site URL in the settings.
- Update any scripts, APIs, or external services that reference the old domain.
Step 8: Set Up 301 Redirects (Optional)
If your old domain has been in use for a while, it’s a good idea to set up 301 redirects to the new domain. This ensures that visitors and search engines are seamlessly redirected to the updated domain, preserving your SEO rankings and user experience.
- In Plesk, go to the IIS Settings for the old domain.
- Add 301 redirect rules to point traffic from the old domain to the new one.
- Save the changes.
Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting
- DNS Propagation Delays: It may take up to 48 hours for DNS changes to propagate globally. Be patient and check back later if the new domain doesn’t resolve immediately.
- Broken Links: Ensure that all internal and external links are updated to the new domain to avoid broken links.
- Email Configuration: If you use email services tied to your domain, update your email settings to reflect the new domain.
- SSL Certificate Issues: Don’t forget to update or reissue your SSL certificate for the new domain to avoid browser security warnings.
Changing the domain in Plesk is a manageable process if you follow the steps outlined above. By carefully updating the domain, DNS records, and internal configurations, you can ensure a seamless transition without impacting your website’s availability or performance. Always double-check your changes and monitor your site closely after the update to address any issues promptly.
If you encounter any challenges, consult your hosting provider’s support team or Plesk’s official documentation for assistance.
