Understanding DNS Propagation
DNS propagation is the time it takes for DNS changes to spread across the internet. When you change your nameservers or DNS records, not all servers see the change immediately.
Why it happens:
DNS servers cache (remember) records for a set time (TTL). Until the TTL expires, they serve the old record. This improves speed but means changes take time to spread.
Typical propagation times:
- Nameserver changes: 12-48 hours
- DNS record changes (A, CNAME, MX): 1-24 hours (depends on TTL)
- New domain registration: Nearly instant
How to check propagation:
- Use the DNS Propagation Checker tool in the client portal
- Enter your domain name
- It will query multiple DNS servers worldwide and show which ones have the new records
Tips to speed up propagation:
- Lower your TTL to 300 (5 minutes) a day before making changes
- Make changes during off-peak hours
- Some ISPs cache longer than the TTL -- there is no way around this
During propagation: Your site may work for some visitors and not others. This is normal and will resolve as propagation completes.