What is DNS propagation?

DNS propagation is the time it takes for DNS changes (like pointing a domain to a new server) to update across all DNS servers worldwide. When you change nameservers or update a DNS record, each DNS server needs to expire its cached version and fetch the new record. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours depending on the TTL value.

How long does DNS propagation take?

DNS propagation typically takes between 1 and 48 hours. With a low TTL (e.g. 300 seconds / 5 minutes), changes can propagate in under an hour. With a high TTL (e.g. 86400 / 24 hours), it can take a full day. Nameserver changes (moving to a new host) take longer than individual record updates. Use our DNS propagation checker to monitor progress in real time.

How do I check if my DNS has propagated?

Enter your domain into RunHost's free DNS propagation checker, select the record type (A, CNAME, MX, TXT, NS), and click Check. The tool queries 10+ DNS servers across different regions and shows which servers already have the new record and which still serve the old value.

What DNS record types can I check?

Our DNS propagation checker supports: A records (IPv4 address), AAAA records (IPv6 address), CNAME records (domain alias / redirect), MX records (mail server routing), TXT records (SPF, DKIM, site verification), and NS records (nameservers). These cover all the common records you'd need to verify after a DNS change.

Why is my DNS not propagating?

Common reasons DNS is not propagating: (1) High TTL on the old record — wait for the TTL to expire before checking, (2) The new DNS record has a typo or incorrect value, (3) Your registrar hasn't saved the changes — double-check your DNS control panel, (4) ISP-level caching — some ISPs cache DNS longer than the TTL. Try checking from multiple locations using our global checker.

How do I speed up DNS propagation?

To speed up DNS propagation: (1) Lower your TTL to 300 seconds (5 minutes) at least 24 hours before making changes, (2) Use a fast, authoritative DNS provider like Cloudflare or RunHost nameservers, (3) After making the change, restore TTL to 3600+ for better performance. RunHost customers get fast DNS propagation with our globally distributed nameservers.

What is the difference between A record and CNAME record?

An A record maps a domain name directly to an IPv4 IP address (e.g. example.com → 1.2.3.4). A CNAME record maps a domain to another domain name (e.g. www.example.com → example.com). A records are faster for root domains; CNAMEs are useful for subdomains and when the target IP changes frequently. Only A and AAAA records can be used at the root/apex domain.

Important Notice: Global cPanel vulnerability. Migrating to secure panel. Some data loss may occur. We apologize.Read Notice

Checking...

DNS TOOLS

DNS Propagation Check

Check if your DNS changes have propagated across global DNS servers worldwide

Enter a domain name and select the record type to check propagation

DNS Propagation Check

🍪 We value your privacy