Step-by-step instructions
- Step 01
In Netlify, deploy the website to the intended project and verify its netlify.app address opens successfully.
- Step 02
Go to your project's Domain management and add your existing custom domain before changing DNS.
- Step 03
Choose either Netlify DNS (update nameservers at Namecheap using the exact nameservers Netlify provides) or external DNS at Namecheap. Do not mix both routes.
- Step 04
If keeping external DNS, follow your Netlify project's instructions for the apex/root domain (ALIAS/ANAME/flattened CNAME if supported, otherwise the documented A record fallback) and a www CNAME.
- Step 05
In Namecheap, edit records only in the authoritative DNS zone. Retain email-related records if you use domain email.
- Step 06
Wait for DNS propagation and use Netlify's domain diagnostics to check root and www; a few hours is common but sometimes it takes longer.
- Step 07
Once DNS reaches the correct project, wait for Netlify's managed TLS/HTTPS certificate to be ready.
- Step 08
Set your preferred primary domain/redirect behavior and visit the website in an incognito browser.
- Step 09
Test navigation after changing domains because root-relative links and image paths may behave differently from local file previews.
Before you finish: important checks
- Use domain values shown for your specific project; copying another project's netlify.app target can produce a 404.
- Do not delete or create a second Netlify project merely because DNS is pending.
Common problems and fixes
- Custom domain shows Netlify 404? Check that the domain is assigned to the same project that serves your site.
- DNS propagation stuck? Verify Namecheap nameservers; changes at inactive DNS providers do nothing.
- SSL Pending? Let DNS propagate before troubleshooting certificate issuance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I upload a ZIP?
Check Netlify's current deployment options; a folder containing index.html and assets is a reliable manual deploy format.
Official reference: Read the provider documentation ↗. Interface labels and plan rules may change.
WordPress, hosting and AI interfaces change. Check the service's current documentation before changing billing, domain DNS, security or important site settings. Rayhan Studio publishes educational help, not guaranteed results.