Using Custom Nameservers

    If you prefer to manage DNS through your own hosting provider or DNS service, you can delegate your .ga.nu subdomain to custom nameservers.

    What is Nameserver Delegation?

    When you use custom nameservers, you're telling the internet: "Don't ask GA.NU for DNS information about this domain — ask these other servers instead."

    This transfers DNS management responsibility from GA.NU to your chosen provider.

    When to Use Custom Nameservers

    • Your hosting provider requires their own nameservers
    • You want to use advanced DNS features from another provider (like Cloudflare, AWS Route 53, or Google Cloud DNS)
    • You're managing multiple domains and want them all in one place

    How to Set Up Custom Nameservers

    1. Get nameserver addresses from your hosting provider. You'll typically receive 2-4 addresses like:

      • ns1.example.com
      • ns2.example.com

      Note: GA.NU supports a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 custom nameservers.

    2. Go to your domain settings in the GA.NU dashboard

    3. Enable custom nameservers and enter the addresses provided (2-4 required)

    4. Configure DNS at your new provider — Add all your DNS records there

    5. Wait for propagation — Changes can take up to 48 hours

    What Changes When You Enable Custom Nameservers

    With GA.NU DNS With Custom Nameservers
    Manage records in GA.NU dashboard Manage records at your provider
    Records sync with Cloudflare Records managed by your provider
    Automatic security features Security depends on your provider

    Important Warnings

    • You must configure DNS at your new provider — Until you do, your domain won't work
    • Your GA.NU DNS records won't transfer automatically — Copy them before switching
    • Some changes are not instant — Allow time for propagation
    • You're responsible for DNS at the new provider — GA.NU can't troubleshoot issues with their system

    Recommended Nameserver Providers

    While GA.NU's built-in DNS (powered by Cloudflare) works great for most users, popular alternatives include:

    • Cloudflare DNS
    • AWS Route 53
    • Google Cloud DNS
    • Your web hosting provider's DNS

    How to Check if It's Working

    After setting up custom nameservers, you can verify the delegation is working by using online DNS lookup tools or the WHOIS page on our site.