How to Change Nameservers in Namecheap
How to Change Nameservers in Namecheap (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
If your domain is registered with Namecheap, changing your nameservers is the easiest way to connect your domain to a new web hosting provider. Whether you’re moving your website to HostingTom or another hosting company, updating your nameservers only takes a few minutes.
This guide walks you through the complete process of changing nameservers in Namecheap.
What Are Nameservers?
Nameservers are DNS servers that direct your domain name to the correct web hosting server. When someone visits your website, the nameservers tell the browser where your website files are stored.
Example nameservers:
ns1.hostingtom.com ns2.hostingtom.com
Before You Begin
- Sign in to your Namecheap account.
- Keep your hosting provider’s nameservers ready.
- Ensure your hosting account is active.
Step 1: Log in to Namecheap
- Visit the Namecheap website.
- Click Sign In.
- Enter your username and password.
- Open your Namecheap Dashboard.
Step 2: Open Domain List
- Click Domain List from the left menu.
- Locate the domain you want to update.
- Click Manage.
Step 3: Change Nameservers
- Locate the Nameservers section.
- Open the dropdown menu.
- Select Custom DNS.
Step 4: Enter Your New Nameservers
Enter the nameservers provided by your hosting provider.
Nameserver 1 ns1.hostingtom.com Nameserver 2 ns2.hostingtom.com
Click the green ? Save button to apply the changes.
DNS Propagation
Once you save your nameservers, DNS propagation begins automatically. Most updates are visible within a few hours, but worldwide propagation can take up to 48 hours.
How to Verify Your Nameservers
You can verify your new nameservers using:
- WHOIS Lookup
- DNS Checker
- nslookup command
- dig command
Common Issues
Website Still Loading the Old Server
DNS propagation may still be in progress. Wait a few hours and clear your browser cache before checking again.
Incorrect Nameservers
Double-check that the nameservers exactly match those provided by your hosting company.
Email Stops Working
If your previous provider managed your email DNS records, review your MX records before changing nameservers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is changing Namecheap nameservers free?
Yes. Namecheap allows you to update your nameservers at no extra cost.
How long does DNS propagation take?
Most domains update within a few hours, but complete propagation may take up to 48 hours.
Can I change my nameservers anytime?
Yes. You can update your nameservers whenever needed.
Will changing nameservers affect SEO?
No. Your search engine rankings are generally not affected if your website migration is completed correctly.
Conclusion
Changing nameservers in Namecheap is a quick and straightforward process. Simply sign in to your account, open your domain settings, choose Custom DNS, enter your new nameservers, and save the changes. Once DNS propagation is complete, your domain will begin pointing to your new hosting provider.
If you’ve purchased hosting from HostingTom, use the nameservers included in your welcome email. Our support team is always ready to help you configure your domain and launch your website successfully.