Guide to Transfer Nameserver to Cloudflare - Configuring Your Domain

Firstly, what is a Nameserver and what is Cloudflare?

In simple terms, a nameserver helps your computer find websites by translating domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1). It's like a phone book for the internet.

Cloudflare is a company that provides internet infrastructure services designed to improve the performance, security, and reliability of websites and web applications. It operates as a content delivery network (CDN), distributing web content across a global network of servers.

Cloudflare also offers protection against malicious activities like DDoS attacks and provides services such as DNS, SSL, and edge computing. For clarity, Cloudflare helps websites run faster and stay safe from online threats. It spreads website content across many servers worldwide and protects against attacks.

Getting Started

Creating a Cloudflare Account 

To get started with Cloudflare, follow these steps: 

• Visit the Cloudflare website and create an account. 

• Once logged in, type in your domain name. 

• Select the free plan option, which offers documentation support but no direct assistance. If you require additional support, you can subscribe to a paid plan. 

  
  

DNS Record Scanning 

Cloudflare will automatically scan your existing nameservers to retrieve your DNS records. These records will appear on the page, but take note of the following: 

• Check for CNAME records, as they may not be visible during the scanning process. 

• Ensure that your website can be proxied; some setups may cause errors if they are proxied. For example, proxied Wix sites may experience access issues, which can be resolved by turning off the proxy setting. 

• Verify that all DNS records reflect the same information as your existing nameservers. 

  
  

Updating Nameservers 

Once your DNS records are verified: 

• Select the option to change nameservers on your domain registrar’s platform. 

• Wait for the nameserver changes to propagate. During this process, your Cloudflare dashboard will indicate that your domain status is activated. 

• You will also receive an email confirmation from Cloudflare. 

  
  

Checking Propagation 

To ensure that the propagation has been successful: 

• Use a tool like https://dnschecker.org 

• Type in your domain name and select NS record. 

• If the results show your Cloudflare nameservers, formatted as [name].ns.cloudflare, your configuration is complete and functional. 

  
  

Conclusion 

Setting up Cloudflare is straightforward when you follow these steps. Remember to regularly audit your DNS settings to avoid any issues and ensure your website’s functionality. If you need additional support, consider subscribing to a plan that suits your needs.  

If you are having technical issues with your website and need a fix, Planet Tech offers Cloudflare deployment. Send us a chat message or call us at +6569296324 and we'll take it from there!