How to Create Custom Nameservers in WHM: A Step-by-Step Guide | TZSMM Host

November 17, 2025
WHM Tutorial
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Setting up custom nameservers in WHM (Web Host Manager) is a great way to enhance your brand identity and streamline DNS management for your hosting clients. With custom nameservers, you can use your domain (e.g., ns1.yourdomain.com) instead of generic ones, giving your hosting business a professional edge. In this guide, TZSMM Host walks you through the process of configuring custom nameservers in WHM.

Why Use Custom Nameservers?

Custom nameservers offer several benefits:

  • Brand Consistency: Using nameservers like ns1.yourdomain.com reinforces your brand.
  • Easier Migration: Simplifies moving domains between hosting providers.
  • Control: Manage DNS settings directly from your server.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have:

  • Root access to your WHM panel.
  • A registered domain name with your registrar.
  • Access to your domain registrar’s DNS management interface to set up glue records.
  • Two unique IP addresses for your nameservers (available from your hosting provider).

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Custom Nameservers in WHM

Step 1: Log in to WHM

Access your WHM panel using one of the following URLs:

  • https://your_server_ip:2087
  • https://your_server_hostname:2087

Log in with your root credentials to proceed.

Step 2: Navigate to Basic WebHost Manager Setup

In the WHM dashboard, search for Basic WebHost Manager Setup using the search bar or navigate to Server Configuration > Basic WebHost Manager Setup.

Step 3: Configure Nameservers

Scroll to the Nameservers section at the bottom of the page. Select Explicitly Set the Nameservers and enter your custom nameserver names, such as:

  • ns1.yourdomain.com
  • ns2.yourdomain.com

Click Save Changes to update the settings.

Note: Ensure the nameserver names use your domain and follow the format ns1/ns2.yourdomain.com.

Step 4: Assign IP Addresses

Next to each nameserver, click Configure Address Records. A new interface will appear.

Enter the IPv4 address for each nameserver in the provided fields. You can find your server’s IP addresses in your hosting control panel or welcome email from TZSMM Host.

Click Configure Address Records to save. Repeat for the second nameserver.

Step 5: Set Up Glue Records at Your Domain Registrar

Log in to your domain registrar’s DNS management panel. Create glue records by associating your nameservers (e.g., ns1.yourdomain.com, ns2.yourdomain.com) with their respective IP addresses. This step is crucial for your nameservers to resolve correctly.

Note: DNS propagation may take up to 24-48 hours. Ensure your glue records are correctly configured to avoid delays.

Step 6: Verify Nameserver Configuration

After propagation, verify your nameservers are working using a tool like WHOIS or a DNS lookup tool. Ensure your domain resolves to the correct IP addresses.

Best Practices for Custom Nameservers

  • Use a domain that reflects your brand for nameservers (e.g., ns1.yourdomain.com).
  • Disable WHOIS lookups in WHM (Tweak Settings > Enable WHOIS lookups for the nameserver IP manager) to speed up IP assignment.
  • Regularly check DNS propagation to ensure your nameservers are active.
  • Contact TZSMM Host support if you encounter issues during setup.

Conclusion

Setting up custom nameservers in WHM is a straightforward process that enhances your hosting business’s professionalism and control. By following these steps, you can configure ns1.yourdomain.com and ns2.yourdomain.com to manage DNS efficiently. For further assistance, TZSMM Host’s award-winning support team is available 24/7 to help you succeed.

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