More accurate Cloudflare detection when connecting a custom domain

What changed

We now check your domain's nameservers from the server before deciding whether Cloudflare manages your DNS. This prevents false messages that told some registrars to add a CNAME when they had actually added an A record that pointed at Cloudflare's anycast IP.

What this means for you

• If you add DNS records at registrars like Hostinger, GoDaddy, or Namecheap and used an A record that points to our IP, you should no longer see incorrect instructions asking you to use a CNAME because the system now detects your actual nameservers.
• If your domain is actually using Cloudflare DNS, you will still see Cloudflare-specific guidance.

How to connect your custom domain

1. Open Settings (or the Domain step in onboarding) and enter your domain.
2. Copy the exact DNS records shown on your screen. For subdomains we typically show a CNAME. For root domains we typically show an A record. Always copy the values shown on your directory's screen.
3. Add those records at your domain registrar (for example GoDaddy, Namecheap, Cloudflare, or Hostinger) and then click Verify in Settings.
4. DNS changes can take a few minutes up to 24 to 48 hours to propagate. Once verified, your directory is served on your domain with SSL.

Troubleshooting tips

• Double-check the record type, host/name, and value exactly as shown in Settings. A common cause of failure is an old conflicting record.
• If verification fails and your registrar is not Cloudflare, do not assume you must switch to a CNAME. We will now detect your nameservers and give guidance that matches your setup.
• If you want Cloudflare to manage your DNS, change your domain's nameservers to Cloudflare's nameservers at your registrar. If you prefer to keep DNS at your registrar, add the A or CNAME record exactly as shown in Settings.
• If your DNS is hosted on Cloudflare, follow the Cloudflare-specific values and instructions that the Settings screen shows.

Still stuck?

If you continue to have trouble verifying your domain after following these steps, contact support and include the registrar you used and the records you added so we can help diagnose the issue.