How do I add or modify DNS records (A, CNAME)?
Configure your domain correctly for a reliable and high-performing website.
Key points • DNS settings are managed through your domain registrar, not in the Editor • A and CNAME records allow you to associate your domain with the website • Any changes must be made carefully • Propagation can take up to 24–48 hours depending on the provider
DNS records are essential for linking your domain name (e.g., hotel-mountain.com) to your hotel website. They determine where your domain points and ensure your site displays correctly. Changes are not made in Webflow Editor, but directly with your domain provider (OVH, GoDaddy, IONOS, Gandi, etc.).
Here's how to manage your A and CNAME records securely.
Understanding DNS Records
Before any intervention, a few simple points:
- A record Points your domain to an IP address (for example, the IP of your hosting).
- CNAME record Redirects a subdomain (www) to another domain (e.g., www → yourdomain.com).
- DNS propagation: Time required for the change to be recognized worldwide (up to 48 hours).
💡 Incorrect configuration can make your site temporarily unavailable.
Where do I change my DNS settings?
Still from your registrar, that is, the place where you bought your domain name:
- OVH • IONOS • GoDaddy • Gandi • Google Domains (now Squarespace) • Cloudflare (if you use a DNS proxy)
💡 Webflow does not host your DNS, but tells you which values to configure.
Add or edit a record A
General procedure (interfaces vary depending on the supplier):
- Log in to your customer area (e.g., OVH).
- Open the Domains section, then go to DNS Zone or DNS Management.
- Locate the existing A record for your root domain (e.g., hotel-montagne.com).
- Change the IP address provided by your technical team or hosting provider.
- If no record exists, create one: • Type: A • Name: @ or blank • Value: Site IP
- Save.
💡 If multiple A records exist, delete those that are not used to avoid conflicts.
Add or edit a CNAME record
The CNAME is essential for the www prefix.
Procedure :
- In the DNS zone, click Add a record.
- Select CNAME.
- Enter the following information: • Name: www • Value: the provided domain (e.g., yourdomain.com or a specific subdomain)
- Save.
💡 Never create an A record for “www” if a CNAME already exists: the two should not coexist.
Verify that the configuration is correct
After making the changes, check: • That the primary domain points to the correct IP address • That the "www" correctly points to the domain • That no unnecessary or contradictory records exist • That DNSSEC is not blocking your change (rare but possible)
💡 You can test using tools like DNSChecker or WhatsMyDNS.
Propagation delay
DNS changes are never instantaneous.
Average delivery time: • 30 minutes to 2 hours • up to 24–48 hours depending on suppliers and caches
Meanwhile: • Your site may display an older version • Some visitors may see the old site, others the new one • Analytics tools may flag temporary inconsistencies
What not to do
To avoid critical errors: • Do not delete the entire DNS zone • Do not add multiple IPs unnecessarily • Do not modify MX records (emails) unless absolutely necessary • Do not mix A and CNAME records for the same subdomain • Do not modify DNS settings during peak hours (test during a quiet day)
Best practices for a hotel
- Keep an internal note with the correct DNS settings. • Inform your marketing team before making any changes. • Always test mobile and desktop after propagation. • Document the configuration with your registrar. • Temporarily disable caching tools if necessary.
Conclusion
Yes, you can add or modify your DNS A and CNAME records, but this is done with your domain provider, not in Webflow Editor. By following the steps for A and CNAME records and properly verifying the configuration, you ensure an available, stable, and high-performing hotel website. Propagation may take some time, which is normal.