Managing Domains, DNS and Certificates in GreatHosts CP

1. Know which kind of domain you are managing

A registered domain, a hosted domain and a parked domain are different states. Identify the role before changing DNS or hosting configuration.

• Registered domain: registration is managed through the account.
• Hosted domain: the domain is attached to hosting content/services.
• Parked domain: the domain is retained without a normal hosted website workflow.

2. Hosted domains and file paths

Hosted Domains is where a domain is associated with the hosting account. For normal GreatHosts web hosting, the verified home path is /home/www and domain content typically resides under /home/www/domain.com.

• Confirm the correct document directory before uploading.
• Do not delete an existing domain directory before creating a backup.
• Test both apex and www behavior when the site goes live.

3. DNS records

The DNS Records area supports common record types such as NS, A, CNAME and SRV. DNS changes can affect websites, email and external integrations, so make one deliberate change at a time.

• Record the previous value before editing.
• Use the exact target supplied by the service being connected.
• Allow for DNS propagation and resolver caching.

4. WHOIS privacy and registration services

GreatHosts acts as a domain reseller rather than the registry itself. WHOIS privacy availability can depend on the TLD and current upstream rules, so use the live domain/order interface as the final authority.

• Do not assume privacy is available for every TLD.
• Keep registrant information accurate where required.
• Review the current registration term and renewal price before ordering.

5. SSL certificates and CSR requests

The domain menu exposes SSL Certificates and CSR Requests. Free Let’s Encrypt availability and paid certificate terms depend on the confirmed current policy and domain relationship.

• Use the current order screen for certificate pricing and eligibility.
• Paid SSL is ordered annually under the verified current checkout model.
• CSR generation is available for certificate workflows that require it.

6. Dedicated IPs and backorders

Dedicated IP and Domains Backorder options are exposed in the current domain area. These are optional services, not automatic requirements for a normal website.

• Do not buy a dedicated IP unless the application or service design requires one.
• A domain backorder is an acquisition attempt, not a guarantee that the domain will be obtained.
• Check current pricing and conditions in the live interface.

7. Make DNS changes reversible

Before a migration, export or record the existing DNS state. Keep old hosting available until the new website, mail and certificate paths have been verified.

• Lower TTL in advance only when you understand the operational effect.
• Verify website and email independently after DNS cutover.
• Keep rollback information until the migration is stable.

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