I Changed My Domains Name Servers But My Domain is Still Pointing to the Old Server
Changing your domain’s name servers is typically a quick process, often taking just minutes to a few hours. However, propagation across the internet can sometimes take 24–36 hours due to the complex network of computers, routers, and switches. No one controls this process fully, so patience is key. Blaming your registrar or hosting provider won’t help, as delays are a normal part of DNS propagation.
If it’s been 24–36 hours and your domain still points to the old server, follow these steps to troubleshoot:
Step 1: Verify Name Servers
- Double-check with your DNS provider to ensure you’ve set the correct name servers. Mistakes here are a common cause of issues.
Step 2: Check Name Server Propagation
- Visit WhatsMyDNS.net, enter your domain, and select “NS” for name servers.
- Review results from 30 global listening posts. If most show the correct name servers, propagation is likely complete. A few (1–4) red X’s are normal; more than four suggest propagation is still ongoing.
Step 3: Confirm A Record Settings
- If the correct name servers are in place, the issue may be an incorrect IP address in your A record(s). Contact your hosting provider to verify the correct IP.
Step 4: Contact Your Hosting Provider
- If both name servers and A records are correct and propagated, the issue may lie with your hosting server. Reach out to your web hosting company for assistance.
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FAQ: Common Questions and Issues
Q: Why is my site still showing the old server after 36 hours?
A: Propagation can take up to 36 hours or more in rare cases. Check name servers (Step 1) and A records (Step 3). If both are correct, contact your hosting provider (Step 4).
Q: What if WhatsMyDNS.net shows many red X’s?
A: More than four red X’s indicate incomplete propagation. Wait a few more hours and recheck. Full propagation can take up to 36 hours.
Q: I entered the wrong name servers. What now?
A: Update to the correct name servers with your DNS provider. Propagation will restart and may take another 24–36 hours.
Q: Why is my A record wrong, and how do I fix it?
A: An incorrect A record points to the old server’s IP. Confirm the correct IP with your hosting provider and update it in your DNS settings.
Q: Can I speed up DNS propagation?
A: No, propagation depends on global DNS servers. Using reliable providers like Cloudflare DNS or DNS Made Easy can minimize delays, but you’ll still need to wait for propagation to complete.
updated - September 17, 2025
