How to Create a Subdomain in cPanel

At Vivint Host, setting up a subdomain through cPanel is a simple and efficient process. Whether you're launching a blog, staging a site, or creating a dedicated landing page, subdomains give you the flexibility to build without affecting your main domain.

This guide will walk you through each step, including DNS setup, WordPress installation, adding SSL, file management, and how to remove a subdomain if needed.

Step 1: Check Your DNS Records

Before creating a subdomain, it’s essential to verify your DNS setup.

• Using Vivint Host Nameservers: If your domain is using Vivint Host’s default nameservers, you're ready to proceed.
• Using External DNS (e.g., Cloudflare): You must manually copy the DNS records generated in cPanel to your DNS provider to ensure the subdomain works correctly.

You can use our DNS checker tool to confirm your records are resolving properly.

Step 2: Create a Subdomain in cPanel

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. Scroll down to the Domains section.

Click "Create A New Domain".

1. Enter your subdomain in the field (e.g., blog.yourdomain.com).
2. The Document Root field will automatically fill in. Leave this as default unless you want to change the file path manually.
3. Click "Submit" to complete the process.

Note: DNS propagation can take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours. This is normal, especially if you're located outside North America.

Step 3: Install WordPress on Your Subdomain (Optional)

Want to run WordPress on your new subdomain? Here's how:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Under the Software section, click "Softaculous Apps Installer".
3. Select WordPress.
4. Click "Install Now".
5. In the "Choose Installation URL" dropdown, select your new subdomain.
6. Fill in the site details and proceed with the installation.

Step 4: Add SSL to Your Subdomain

By default, Vivint Host offers AutoSSL for all domains and subdomains. If it hasn't applied yet, you can trigger it manually:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Under Security, click "SSL/TLS Status".
3. Find your subdomain in the list.
4. Check the box beside it, then click "Run AutoSSL".

If AutoSSL fails, it's usually because DNS hasn’t fully propagated yet. Try again in a few hours.

Step 5: Upload Files to Your Subdomain (Without WordPress)

If you prefer not to use WordPress, you can manually upload your own files.

Using cPanel File Manager:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Open File Manager.
3. Navigate to the subdomain’s document root folder.
4. Click "Upload" on the top menu.
5. Select and upload your files.

You can also create new files or folders by using the +File or +Folder options.

Step 6: How to Remove a Subdomain

Need to delete a subdomain? Follow these steps carefully to avoid leaving unnecessary files behind:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Navigate to the Domains section.
3. Click "Manage" next to the subdomain.
4. Click "Remove Domain".

If You Installed WordPress:

1. Go back to the cPanel main page.
2. Open Softaculous Apps Installer.
3. Under "My Apps", click the red X next to the subdomain installation.

If You Uploaded Files Manually:

1. Open File Manager.
2. Locate the subdomain’s document root.
3. Delete the folder manually.

Important: Removing the subdomain through cPanel deletes DNS entries but leaves the document root folder intact for security. Always delete folders manually if you no longer need the files.

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve created your subdomain, the possibilities are wide open. You can:

• Launch a test environment for development.
• Build a blog, store, or landing page.
• Create multilingual versions of your main site.
• Separate client dashboards or internal tools.

At Vivint Host, we’re here to support your growth-whether you're experimenting with features or expanding your brand. If you need further help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our 24/7 support team. Your hosting experience is backed by speed, security, and service you can count on.