A domain alias (previously called a "parked domain") allows an additional domain to display the same content as your primary domain. This is useful if you own multiple variations of your domain name (e.g. .co.uk and .com) and want them all to show the same website.
Please note: Screens and options may vary slightly depending on your cPanel version and hosting plan.
When You Would Use This
Use aliases when you own multiple variations of your domain (e.g. .co.uk and .com) and want them all to show the same website.
Creating a Domain Alias
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- In the Domains section, click Domains.
- Click Create A New Domain.
- Enter the alias domain name.
- Ensure the Document Root is set to the same directory as your primary domain (e.g.
public_html). Untick the option for a separate document root if it's ticked. - Click Submit.
How It Works
When a visitor types the alias domain into their browser, they see the exact same content as your primary domain. The URL in the address bar will still show the alias domain.
Redirecting Instead of Aliasing
If you'd prefer that the alias domain redirects visitors to your primary domain (changing the URL in the address bar), set up a redirect instead:
- Add the domain as described above.
- Then go to Redirects in the Domains section.
- Set up a 301 (permanent) redirect from the alias domain to your primary domain.
This approach is better for SEO, as it consolidates all traffic under one domain and avoids duplicate content issues.
Tips
- Point the alias domain's nameservers to your hosting provider before adding it in cPanel.
- Domain aliases share the same email configuration as the primary domain unless separately configured.
- For SEO purposes, it's generally better to redirect alias domains (301 redirect) rather than serving the same content on multiple domains.
What Next?
- Setting Up URL Redirects — Configure redirects for better SEO.
- Adding a Domain to Your Account — Set up a separate website on a different domain.
