Add-on domains in cPanel allow you to host multiple websites under a single hosting account. However, if you no longer need a particular website or domain, it's good practice to remove it to free up resources and keep your cPanel account tidy. This process will remove the domain, its associated files, and any databases linked to it.
This guide will walk you through the steps to safely remove an add-on domain from your cPanel account. Please ensure you have backed up any necessary data before proceeding, as this action is irreversible.
What You'll Need:
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
- Access to your cPanel account via your EncodeDotHost customer portal.
- The exact name of the add-on domain you wish to remove.
- Confirmation that all data associated with the domain has been backed up or is no longer needed.
Step 1: Access Add-on Domains in cPanel
Your first step is to navigate to the Add-on Domains management section within your cPanel account.
- Log in to your cPanel account.
- In the "Domains" section, click on the "Addon Domains" icon. This icon typically looks like a globe with a plus sign.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Add-on Domain
On the "Addon Domains" page, you'll find a list of all domains hosted as add-ons on your account.
- Under the "Modify Addon Domain" section, you can see a list of all your add-on domains. Locate the specific add-on domain you wish to remove.
- Click on the "Remove" link next to the domain name. This link is typically a small red 'X' or "Remove" text.
- You will be taken to a confirmation page. This page will warn you that removing the add-on domain will also delete the associated files in its document root and any linked databases.
- Carefully review the information. If you are certain you want to proceed, click on the "Remove" button once more to confirm the deletion.
- You should then see a success message notifying you that your Add-on domain has been completely removed.
Important Considerations:
- Data Loss: Removing an add-on domain will permanently delete all files within its document root (the folder it points to) and any associated MySQL databases. Ensure you have a complete backup of all data you wish to keep before proceeding.
- DNS Records: This process typically removes the domain's configuration from your hosting account, but it does not automatically update or delete DNS records at your domain registrar. You may need to manage these separately if you plan to point the domain elsewhere or let it expire.
- Email Accounts: Any email accounts created under the add-on domain will also be removed.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Domain not appearing in list: Ensure you are looking under "Modify Addon Domain" and that it is indeed set up as an add-on domain, not a primary or parked domain.
- "Error removing domain": This can sometimes happen due to server load or if there are active processes linked to the domain. Try again after a few minutes, or contact support if the issue persists.
- Still having trouble? Contact EncodeDotHost support with details of the issue and any error messages you're receiving, and they'll be happy to assist further.
By effectively managing your add-on domains, you can keep your cPanel account streamlined and ensure that only active, essential websites are utilising your hosting resources.
