If you encounter the error “A DNS entry for the domain already exists” while adding a domain or subdomain through cPanel or WHM, it means a DNS record for that domain is already present in the system.
This article will guide you through identifying and resolving the issue step-by-step.
Why This Happens
This error occurs when:
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A DNS zone for the domain already exists in WHM or cPanel
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A conflicting DNS record is already created manually
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A subdomain has been added previously
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The domain was removed but the DNS zone wasn’t fully deleted
Step-by-Step Fix
Step 1: Log in to cPanel or WHM
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If you are a reseller or admin: log in to WHM
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If you're a client: log in to cPanel via your StormHoster account
Step 2: Access DNS Zone Editor
For cPanel Users:
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Go to Zone Editor from the main cPanel dashboard.
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Click Manage next to the domain you're working with.
For WHM Users:
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Go to WHM > DNS Functions > Edit DNS Zone
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Select the domain from the list and click Edit
Step 3: Locate the Existing DNS Entry
Search for an existing DNS record (such as A, CNAME, or MX) matching the domain or subdomain you’re trying to add.
Examples:
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Trying to add
subdomain.domain.com
but an A record already exists -
Trying to re-add
domain.com
but its DNS zone still exists in WHM
Step 4: Delete or Modify the Conflicting Entry
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If the record is not needed anymore, click Delete (in cPanel) or remove the line (in WHM).
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If it's still needed, consider updating the record instead of adding a duplicate.
⚠️ Important: Only delete DNS records if you are sure they are not being used for email, websites, or redirects. When in doubt, open a support ticket.
Step 5: Re-attempt Adding the Domain or Record
Once the conflicting entry has been removed:
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Go back and try adding your domain/subdomain again.
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It should now proceed without errors.
Optional: Clear Local DNS Cache
Sometimes, DNS changes may take time to reflect. You can:
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Use a tool like https://dnschecker.org to verify global DNS
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Flush local cache using:
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Windows:
ipconfig /flushdns
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macOS/Linux: Use terminal commands to restart the DNS service
-
Summary
Task | Action |
---|---|
Error message | “A DNS entry for the domain already exists” |
Cause | A record or DNS zone already exists for the domain |
Fix in cPanel/WHM | Delete or update the conflicting DNS record |
Then | Re-add the domain or subdomain |
???? Still Need Help?
If you’re unsure which record to remove, or if you're worried about breaking an existing setup, feel free to submit a support ticket. Our technical team will be happy to assist you.