How to create a wildcard subdomain in cPanel

Wildcard subdomains are a useful cPanel feature that allows you to direct non-existing subdomains to a specific folder on your server. They serve as a “catch-all” location so that if a user enters a subdomain URL that has yet to be created (for example, http://nothinghere.yourdomain.com), they will be directed to the content you determine, rather than an error page.

How to create a wildcard subdomain in cPanel

1) Log in to your HostPapa Dashboard

2) Click on My cPanel.

How to manage your hosting account subdomains cpanel

3) Navigate to Domains > Subdomains.

How to manage your hosting account subdomains

4) Complete the Create a Subdomain form, using an asterisk (*) as the Subdomain name.

How to manage your hosting account subdomains - create subdomain

5) Select the parent domain and a folder to be used as the Document Root (this folder will hold the page content to which your users will be directed), then click Create to proceed.

How to create a wildcard subdomain in cPanel - zone editor

6) With the subdomain created, now select Domains > Zone Editor from the cPanel menu. Click + A Record to create an A record for your wildcard subdomain (*.yourdomain.com.).

How to create a wildcard subdomain in cPanel - Add A Record

7) Note the additional period after your domain name. Ensure the A record points to your server’s IP address.

How to create a wildcard subdomain in cPanel

8) Click Add an A Record to complete the configuration.

9) Once the new A record has completed propagation, your wildcard subdomain will go live. Ensure you have the content to which you wish to redirect your users available in the nominated folder.

If you need help with your HostPapa account, please open a support ticket from your dashboard.

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