An add-on domain, also known as an additional domain in DirectAdmin, allows you to host another domain name under the same hosting account.
This means you may be able to run more than one website from one hosting package, depending on the limits of your hosting plan. all of HostworX Hosting Packages offer multiple domain accounts.
For example, your hosting account may already have: yourdomain.co.za
You could then add another domain such as: anotherdomain.co.za
This allows the second domain to have its own website files and website address.
How Does an Add-on Domain Work?
When you add an additional domain in DirectAdmin, DirectAdmin creates space for that domain inside your hosting account.
The domain can then have its own website files, email accounts, DNS records, and settings.
The exact features available may depend on your hosting package.
Example of an Add-on Domain
Your main domain may be: yourdomain.co.za
Your additional domain may be: newbusiness.co.za
Both domains can be hosted under the same DirectAdmin account if your hosting package allows additional domains.
Each domain can have its own website.
Is an Add-on Domain the Same as a Subdomain?
No, an add-on domain and a subdomain are different.
An add-on domain is a separate registered domain name.
Example: newbusiness.co.za
A subdomain is part of an existing domain.
Example: shop.yourdomain.co.za
An add-on domain usually represents a completely separate website, while a subdomain is normally a section of an existing domain.
Is an Add-on Domain the Same as a Redirect?
No, an add-on domain is not the same as a redirect.
An add-on domain can host its own website.
A redirect sends visitors from one website address to another.
For example, a redirect could send: olddomain.co.za
to: newdomain.co.za
An add-on domain is used when you want the domain to have its own hosting space or website content.
When Should I Use an Add-on Domain?
You may want to use an add-on domain if:
- You have more than one business website.
- You want to host multiple websites under one hosting account.
- You have a separate domain for a new project.
- You want each domain to have its own website files.
- Your hosting package allows additional domains.
Does an Add-on Domain Need DNS?
Yes, the domain must point to the correct hosting server.
This is usually done by updating the domain nameservers or DNS records.
If the domain is registered with another provider, you may need to point the domain to HostworX nameservers or update the DNS records at the current DNS provider.
Does an Add-on Domain Need SSL?
Yes, if the add-on domain has a website, it should have SSL enabled.
This allows the website to load using HTTPS.
Example: https://newbusiness.co.za
Without SSL, visitors may see a “Not Secure” warning.
Does an Add-on Domain Have Its Own Email?
An add-on domain can usually have its own email accounts if your hosting package supports email for additional domains.
For example: info@newbusiness.co.za or sales@newbusiness.co.za
This depends on your hosting package limits and mail configuration.
Important Notes
Please keep the following in mind:
- Your hosting package must allow additional domains.
- The domain must point to the correct hosting server.
- DNS changes may take time to update.
- Each add-on domain should have SSL enabled.
- An add-on domain can use its own website files.
- Adding a domain does not automatically register the domain name.
- The domain must already be registered before it can work online.
When Should I Contact HostworX Support?
Contact HostworX Support if:
- You are unsure whether your hosting package allows additional domains.
- The domain does not load after being added.
- DNS records need to be checked.
- SSL does not install for the add-on domain.
- You are not sure where the website files should be uploaded.
Conclusion
An add-on domain in DirectAdmin allows you to host another domain under the same hosting account.
It is useful when you want to manage more than one website from one hosting package.
Before adding an add-on domain, make sure your hosting package allows it and that the domain points to the correct HostworX server.
