How to Add an Addon Domain in cPanel Print

An addon domain allows you to host multiple websites from a single cPanel account. Each addon domain can have its own website, email accounts, and separate content. This guide will show you how to add an addon domain in cPanel on HostWatt.

Step 1: Log in to cPanel

1. Go to your HostWatt cPanel login page.

2. Enter your username and password provided by HostWatt.

3. Once logged in, you’ll see the cPanel dashboard.

Step 2: Locate the Domains Section

1. In cPanel, scroll down to the Domains section.

2. Click on Domains.

Step 3: Add Your New Domain

1. Under Create an Addon Domain, fill in the required details:

   • New Domain Name:
     Enter the full domain you want to add (e.g., example.com).

   • Subdomain:
     This is automatically filled based on your domain. You can leave it as is or customise it.

   • Document Root:
     This is the folder where your website files will be stored.
     By default, cPanel sets it as /public_html/example.com. You can change it if needed.

2. Click Add Domain.

Step 4: Upload Website Files

1. Open File Manager in cPanel.

2. Navigate to the document root folder you set for your addon domain (e.g., /public_html/example.com).

3. Upload your website files into this folder.

Ensure your website’s main file (e.g., index.php or index.html) is in the root of this folder.

Step 5: Set Up DNS (If Needed)

1. Make sure the domain is pointing to HostWatt’s nameservers:

   core1.hostwatt.com
   core2.hostwatt.com
   

2. If your domain is registered elsewhere, update the nameservers at the registrar.

3. DNS changes can take up to 24–48 hours to propagate.

Step 6: Create Email Accounts for the Addon Domain (Optional)

1. In cPanel, go to Email Accounts.

2. Click Create and select the addon domain from the dropdown.

3. Enter the desired email address and password.

4. Click Create Account.

You can now send and receive emails using your new domain.

Step 7: Test Your Website

1. After uploading files and updating DNS, visit your addon domain in a browser (e.g., https://example.com).

2. Make sure the website loads correctly.

If you see the default cPanel page, double-check that files are uploaded to the correct folder.

Tips for Managing Addon Domains

• Each addon domain behaves like a separate website, but uses your main cPanel account’s resources.

• Keep document roots organized to avoid mixing files between domains.

• Use FTP accounts or File Manager for easier file management.

• Ensure SSL certificates are enabled for security. HostWatt offers free AutoSSL for all addon domains.

Need Help?

If you encounter any issues while adding an addon domain, HostWatt Support is available 24/7. Open a support ticket or start a live chat for immediate assistance.