The direct answer
A and AAAA point to IP addresses, CNAME points to a hostname, and TXT stores text such as verification values. Match the record name, type and value to your host's instructions rather than pasting a complete URL.
DNS mistakes often come from mixing up fields. The hostname identifies the name being configured, the record type determines the target format, and TTL affects caching. Gather the hosting platform's complete instructions before editing records.
Recognize the common types
| Type | Typical purpose | Target format |
|---|---|---|
| A | IPv4 address | 192.0.2.10, shown here only as an example |
| AAAA | IPv6 address | An IPv6 address |
| CNAME | Alias to another hostname | target.example.com |
| TXT | Verification or other text | The complete value supplied by the service |
Do not deploy example addresses as real hosting targets. In particular, an A or CNAME target should not contain a complete URL with https:// and a page path.
Organize by hostname before editing
List the root domain, www and any required subdomains. Some panels use @ for the root; others expect a blank field or the complete name. Read the instructions for the panel you are using. Check existing records and conflict rules before adding a new target. Clearing an entire zone can disrupt unrelated services.
Verify three separate layers
Check the authoritative DNS answer, then the result from ordinary visitor networks, then the HTTPS website. A correct DNS answer does not mean the hosting platform has finished binding the domain. A working page on one connection does not prove every cache has updated. Keeping these layers separate makes troubleshooting more useful than repeatedly recreating the same records.
A common question
Can I put a complete https:// URL in a CNAME record?
Use the target hostname supplied by the hosting provider, without a scheme, page path or query string.
Official sources & further reading
Use this guide for planning and operational reference. Confirm current prices, networks, registration rules and supported features with your order and providers.
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