How to Change DNS Nameservers in Namecheap

Dennis Yu on December 10, 2025

If your domain is registered with Namecheap and you need to point it to another hosting provider, you’ll need to update your DNS nameservers. Don’t worry, it’s simple. Follow these steps to get it done quickly and correctly.

Why Change DNS Nameservers?

Changing your nameservers tells the internet where your website lives. It’s essential when:

  • Switching hosting providers – Your new host uses its own DNS system.
  • Improving performance – Some DNS services are faster or more reliable.
  • Enhancing security – Specialized DNS providers can protect against attacks.

In short, your nameservers control where your website and emails are directed. Setting them up correctly ensures your site loads properly for visitors.

Step 1 – Log In to Your Namecheap Account

Head over to Namecheap.com and sign in. You’ll land on your Dashboard, which lists your active domains.

Step 2 – Access the Domain List

From the left-hand menu, click Domain List. This page displays all your domains under management.

Step 3 – Select the Domain

Find the domain you want to update and click Manage to open the domain details page.

Step 4 – Navigate to the Nameservers Section

Scroll until you find the Nameservers or DNS Management section.

Step 5 – Choose Custom DNS

From the dropdown, select Custom DNS (sometimes labeled Use Custom Nameservers). This allows you to manually enter your hosting provider’s DNS details.

Step 6 – Enter New Nameservers

Enter the new nameservers provided by your host. You’ll typically have at least two:

Nameserver 1: ns1.yourhostingprovider.com  
Nameserver 2: ns2.yourhostingprovider.com

Double-check them; typos here can take your website offline.

Step 7 – Save Changes

Click the green checkmark (✓) or Save button to confirm your updates.

Once saved, DNS propagation can take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours. During this time, some visitors may still see your old hosting server.

Conclusion

Changing your DNS nameservers in Namecheap is straightforward once you know where to look. Just be sure to enter the correct details and give the changes time to propagate.

If you also manage domains through GoDaddy, check out our companion guide: How to Change DNS Nameservers in GoDaddy.

How to Change Domain DNS Nameservers in GoDaddy

Dennis Yu on December 10, 2025

Changing your domain’s nameservers lets you point your domain to a new hosting provider or DNS manager. This quick guide walks you through the exact steps inside GoDaddy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sign in to GoDaddy

Go to GoDaddy.com and log in.
Navigate to My Products → Domains, then select the domain you want to modify. This opens your Domain Information screen.

2. Click the “DNS” Tab

Next to the Overview tab, click DNS to open your DNS management panel.

3. Open “Change Nameservers”

On the Manage DNS screen, scroll down until you see the Nameservers section.
Click Change Nameservers.

4. Choose “I’ll Use My Own Nameservers”

A dialog box will appear. Select I’ll use my own nameservers to manually enter your new DNS information.

5. Enter Your Nameservers

Input the nameservers provided by your hosting provider or DNS manager.
You may need to add two or more entries (for example, ns1.yourhost.com, ns2.yourhost.com, etc.).

6. Save Your Changes

Click Save.
If GoDaddy asks for confirmation, check the acknowledgment box and click Continue to apply the update.

What Happens Next

After saving, your domain will begin DNS propagation, which can take up to 24 hours worldwide. During this time, your site might appear temporarily unavailable until the changes fully take effect.

Tip: Double-check your nameservers for accuracy; incorrect entries can cause your site or email to stop working.

Final Thoughts

Changing nameservers is a simple task once you’ve done it a few times, but it’s critical to get right.

If you’re not comfortable handling DNS settings or need help connecting your website correctly, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

If you also manage domains through Namecheap, check out our companion guide: How to Change DNS Nameservers in Namecheap.