How to Connect a Domain Name from Websites Tab

• Connect a Domain Name
• Common Issues When Connecting a Domain Name
• Summary
   

Connect a Domain Name

1. Log in to your Bluehost Portal.
2. In the left-hand menu, click Websites.
3. Click the Manage button located next to the website you want to manage.

   
    

4. In the Site Information section, you can connect a domain name in two ways:
   • If this is your first time connecting a domain name, click the Connect Domain hyperlink. Then, proceed to step 6.

     
      

   • If you have previously connected a domain name and want to add a new one, click the Manage hyperlink. Then, proceed to step 5.

     
      

5. Click Add Domain.

   
    

6. Enter a domain name to connect.

   
    

7. Confirm and click Continue to save your changes.
8. Click Finish Connection to fully connect and activate the domain on your website.

   
    

Common Issues When Connecting a Domain Name

If you encounter issues while connecting your domain, review the common scenarios below.

Issue 1: Domain Not Found or Unavailable

Cause: The domain may not be registered or may be misspelled.
Solution: Double-check the domain name for typos. If it's not registered yet, register it. If registered elsewhere, ensure it's active and not expired.

Issue 2: DNS Not Propagated

Cause: You recently updated the nameservers, and changes haven't taken effect yet.
Solution: DNS propagation can take up to 4–8 hours (up to 24). You can check propagation status using tools like What's My DNS. Wait a bit and try again.

Issue 3: Domain Not Pointed to Correct Nameservers

Cause: The domain is registered elsewhere and hasn't been pointed to our nameservers.
Solution: Update your domain's nameservers to point to our hosting platform. Refer to your registrar's instructions or our guide.

Issue 4: Domain Already Connected to Another Site

Cause: The domain might already be linked to a different hosting account or website.
Solution: Remove the domain from any other active website or contact support to release it.

Issue 5: Transfer Still in Progress

Cause: You're in the middle of a domain transfer.
Solution: Domain transfers typically take 5–7 days. You'll be notified once the transfer is complete. After that, try connecting the domain name again.

Summary

Connecting a domain name through the Websites tab is a straightforward way to make your website accessible online. By ensuring your domain is properly registered, pointed to the correct nameservers, and added to an existing website, you can confidently publish and activate your site.