Nameservers identify which DNS service answers for your domain. DNS records at that service connect individual functions such as a website or incoming email. Change nameservers when moving DNS hosting; change records when updating a service within the existing DNS setup.
Before you begin
- Identify the authoritative DNS host.
- Choose a record edit or a delegation move deliberately.
- Keep a copy of the previous settings.
Find the active DNS host first
A registrar account can contain a DNS editor even when the domain uses nameservers elsewhere. Editing an inactive copy of the zone will not change the answers visitors receive. Check the domain’s current delegation before changing records.
For a NameUK domain using the supported provider nameservers, supported DNS records can be managed through its dashboard. If you have delegated the domain to SiteGround, Cloudflare or another external DNS host, manage the active records there.
Choose the smallest change that meets the goal
If a new website host asks for an A record or CNAME, you may be able to keep the same DNS host and change only the website records. Existing email records can remain in place. This is different from switching the entire nameserver set.
If the goal is to move DNS hosting, prepare the whole zone at the new service. A nameserver change affects where website, mail and verification records are looked up. Copying only the homepage record can leave other services disconnected.
Match the request to the operation
Ask the provider what it needs and why before saving a change.
- Website IP address changed: review A and any relevant AAAA records.
- Website host supplied a target hostname: review its CNAME or root-domain instructions.
- New mail provider: review MX and sender-authentication records.
- New DNS host: prepare all records, review DNSSEC and then update delegation.
Verify the result outside the editor
After saving, check the authoritative DNS answer and then test the service itself. A browser can show an old cached result, and a DNS record can be correct while hosting is not yet configured for the hostname.
Keep a note of the previous settings and time of change. Domain registration and renewal remain separate from this connection work: changing DNS does not renew the name or move its legal ownership. Keep both the technical record and renewal reminder current.
Prepared with AI-assisted drafting and illustration, then checked against the linked sources and NameUK’s current service. The artwork is conceptual; setup values must come from your own provider.
Further readingCloudflare: DNS NS records ↗Cloudflare: how DNS works ↗NameUK registration and renewal prices ↗Extension rules and provider processes can change. Check the current registrar instructions before a registration, transfer or renewal.
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