If your website is redirecting to the www subdomain but not loading properly, the issue may be caused by missing DNS records. Specifically, there is likely no A Record configured for the www subdomain in your domain’s DNS settings.
In this article, we’ll explain:
- Why this issue happens
- How to create an A Record for the www subdomain
- What to expect after DNS propagation
Why the Website Is Redirecting to the www Subdomain
When you set up a website, your domain often has two versions:
- Root Domain (non-www):
yourwebsite.com - www Subdomain:
www.yourwebsite.com
If your website redirects visitors to www.yourwebsite.com, but there’s no A Record pointing to your server’s IP address, visitors will see an error page or a “Site Can’t Be Reached” message.
What Is an A Record?
An A Record (Address Record) is a DNS setting that links a domain or subdomain (like www.yourwebsite.com) to an IP address (e.g., 123.45.67.89). Without an A Record, the DNS system doesn’t know where to direct visitors when they access your website through the www subdomain.
How to Create an A Record for the www Subdomain
Follow these steps to add an A Record for the www subdomain using Namecheap’s DNS settings.
Step 1: Access Your Namecheap Account
- Log into Your Namecheap Account:
- Visit Namecheap and log in to your account.
- Go to Domain List:
- Click “Domain List” from the left-hand side menu.
- Select Your Domain:
- Find the domain name you’re working with and click the “Manage” button next to it.
Step 2: Open the Advanced DNS Settings
- Navigate to the DNS Tab:
- Click the “Advanced DNS” tab at the top of the page.
- Find the Host Records Section:
- Scroll down to the Host Records section, where DNS records can be added or edited.
Step 3: Add the A Record for the www Subdomain
- Add a New A Record:
- Click “Add New Record” or “Edit” if an existing A Record for the www subdomain is already present.
- Enter the Details:
- Type:
A Record - Host:
www(this represents the www subdomain) - Value: Your server’s IP address (e.g.,
123.45.67.89) - TTL: Leave the default value or set it to
Automatic.
- Type:
- Save Changes:
- Click “Save All Changes.”
Example DNS A Record Configuration:
| Type | Host | Value (IP Address) | TTL |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Record | www | 123.45.67.89 | Automatic |
| A Record | @ | 123.45.67.89 | Automatic |
Step 4: Wait for DNS Propagation
Once you’ve added the A Record for the www subdomain, you’ll need to wait for DNS propagation. This process typically takes 30-60 minutes but can take up to 24-48 hours depending on the following factors:
- Domain Registrar’s Update Speed: Different registrars update DNS records at different rates.
- TTL Setting: If you set a lower TTL, changes will update faster.
- ISP Cache: Internet Service Providers may cache old DNS records, causing delays.
Check DNS Propagation Status
To check if the DNS record has updated, use these online tools:
- WhatsMyDNS: Check global DNS records.
- DNS Checker: Verify DNS updates from multiple server locations.
Why You Can’t Speed Up DNS Propagation
Unfortunately, DNS propagation is fully automated and cannot be sped up manually. It depends on:
- Global DNS Server Updates: DNS records must sync with servers worldwide.
- ISP Caching Rules: ISPs update DNS records on their schedules, which you cannot control.
Summary: Fixing the Missing A Record for the www Subdomain
What You Need to Do:
- Log into Namecheap: Access your account dashboard.
- Go to Advanced DNS Settings: Select your domain and manage DNS records.
- Add an A Record for the www Subdomain:
- Host:
www - Type:
A Record - Value: Your server’s IP address.
- Host:
- Save and Wait: Allow 30-60 minutes for DNS propagation.
Helpful Guide from Namecheap:
For more detailed instructions, check out Namecheap’s guide on setting up A Records:
How to Set Up an A Record (Namecheap)
By following these steps, your website will be correctly pointed to your server, ensuring seamless access through both the root domain and the www subdomain.
Good luck with your website setup! 
