Step-by-step instructions
- Step 01
Identify the preferred public domain name for your website.
- Step 02
Add both the root domain and www alias to your hosting provider if the platform requires it.
- Step 03
Configure DNS separately for apex/root and www according to the host's documented instructions.
- Step 04
Enable an automatic redirect from the non-preferred hostname to the preferred hostname, if supported.
- Step 05
Set canonical URLs and internal navigation links consistently.
- Step 06
Test both variants with http and https; ensure the redirects lead to the correct address without loops.
- Step 07
After the move, update the preferred domain in Search Console records and sitemap where appropriate.
Before you finish: important checks
- A www CNAME without a configured apex root will not automatically fix every provider's DNS.
Common problems and fixes
- www 404 but apex works? Check both DNS and the provider's domain aliases.
Frequently asked questions
Does Google require www?
No; consistency and correct redirects matter more.
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.