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How to Set Up Your Own Nameservers in DirectAdmin

This guide shows you how to set up nameservers like ns1.yourdomain.com on a DirectAdmin server. You need Admin or Reseller access, and usually a VPS or dedicated server.

Domains and DNS2 min read14 steps2 screenshots

What is a nameserver?

A nameserver is a computer that knows where websites live. It is like a signpost for visitors. Private (or custom) nameservers use your own domain name instead of the host's name. For example, ns1.yourdomain.com.

What do you need first?

  • A domain name you own.
  • Two IP addresses for your server. Two nameservers should have two different IPs. Ask Hostvento support if you need extra IPs.
  • DirectAdmin Admin or Reseller access.
    Screenshot: DirectAdmin Admin or Reseller access.

Step 1: Make the DNS records in DirectAdmin

  1. Log in to DirectAdmin.
  2. Open Admin Level (or Reseller Level), and click Name Server Setup. You can search for it at the top of the page.
  3. Type your first nameserver, like ns1.yourdomain.com.
  4. Type your second one, like ns2.yourdomain.com.
  5. Select the IP address for each one.
  6. Click Save.

Some versions ask you to add the name to the domain's DNS records as well. Open DNS Management for yourdomain.com and add two A records named ns1 and ns2. Point each to its IP. An A record is a line in DNS that points a name to an IP address.

Step 2: Register them at your domain registrar

The internet must also know these names exist. This is called a glue record, or a child nameserver.

  1. Log in to the client area if your domain is registered with Hostvento.
  2. Click Domains, then My Domains.
  3. Choose your domain, then look for Register Nameservers or Private Nameservers. The label can differ.
  4. Enter ns1 and the first IP. Save.
  5. Do the same for ns2 and the second IP.

Step 3: Use them

  1. In Manage Nameservers, choose custom nameservers.
  2. Enter ns1.yourdomain.com and ns2.yourdomain.com.
  3. Save.
Tip: Domains that use these nameservers need DNS zones on your server. Add each domain in DirectAdmin first, or its site will not load.

Check it

nslookup -type=ns yourdomain.com

This lists the nameservers your domain uses. Changes can take up to 48 hours to spread.

Screenshot: This lists the nameservers your domain uses. Changes can take up to 48 hours to spread.

Need help? Open a support ticket.

Quick recap

  • Private nameservers use your own domain name.
  • Set them in DirectAdmin under Name Server Setup.
  • Register them as child nameservers at the registrar.
  • Then point your domains to them.
  • Two different IPs are needed.