To connect your domain to Cloudflare, you must replace your registrar's default nameservers with the two custom nameservers provided by Cloudflare (e.g., alan.ns.cloudflare.com). Log into your domain registrar, navigate to the Nameserver manager, delete the existing entries, and paste the Cloudflare nameservers. Once propagated, Cloudflare will manage your DNS, CDN, and SSL settings.
What Happens When You Route Through Cloudflare?
Cloudflare acts as a reverse proxy between visitors and your server:
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| Visitor → Cloudflare → Your Server |
How it works: When someone visits your site, their request hits Cloudflare's global network first. Cloudflare serves cached content when possible, filters malicious traffic, and forwards legitimate requests to your origin server.
Your domain points to Cloudflare's nameservers. Cloudflare's DNS then points to your actual hosting. You manage DNS records inside Cloudflare's dashboard, not your registrar.
This "proxy" layer enables caching, security features, and performance optimization without changing your hosting.
Why It Matters: Free Security and Speed
Cloudflare's free tier includes:
Free SSL: Automatic HTTPS with universal certificates. No purchase or installation required.
DDoS protection: Filters attack traffic before it reaches your server.
Global CDN: Caches static content across 300+ data centers worldwide. Faster load times everywhere.
DNS management: Fast, reliable DNS with built-in analytics.
These features activate automatically once nameservers propagate, no additional configuration needed for basic protection.
Decision Framework: Full Setup vs CNAME
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| | Split (registrar + Cloudflare) |
Nameserver change (recommended): Point your domain's nameservers to Cloudflare. They handle all DNS. Works with free accounts.
CNAME setup: Partial integration without changing nameservers. Requires Cloudflare Enterprise. Not available for free users.
For 99% of users, changing nameservers is the only option, and it's the better option anyway.
Implementation Steps
Step 1: Add Site to Cloudflare Create a Cloudflare account, click "Add site," enter your domain. Choose a free or paid plan.
Step 2: Let Cloudflare Scan DNS Cloudflare automatically imports your existing DNS records. Critical: Verify all records imported correctly, especially MX (email) records.
Step 3: Review and Confirm Records Check that A records, CNAMEs, and MX records match your current configuration. Add any missing records manually.
Step 4: Copy Cloudflare Nameservers Cloudflare displays two custom nameservers (e.g., alan.ns.cloudflare.com, beth.ns.cloudflare.com). Copy both.
Step 5: Update Nameservers at NameSilo Log into NameSilo. Use the Nameserver Manager to replace existing nameservers with Cloudflare's. Step 6: Wait for Propagation Cloudflare checks periodically. Propagation typically completes within 24 hours, often much faster.
Step 7: Verify in Cloudflare Once active, Cloudflare confirms "Great news! Cloudflare is now protecting your site."
Common Mistakes
Not verifying MX records: Cloudflare's scan may miss or misconfigure email records. If you change nameservers before checking, email breaks instantly. Always verify MX records inside Cloudflare before switching.
Leaving old nameservers: Some users add Cloudflare nameservers alongside existing ones. This doesn't work, you must replace them entirely.
Managing DNS at the wrong place: After switching, all DNS changes happen in Cloudflare, not your registrar. Adding records at NameSilo won't affect your live site.
Expecting instant activation: Propagation takes time. Don't panic if Cloudflare shows "pending" for several hours.
What This Means for You
NameSilo makes nameserver changes straightforward. Use the Nameserver Manager to replace default nameservers with Cloudflare's assigned pair. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I point my domain to Cloudflare?
Replace registrar nameservers with Cloudflare's assigned pair.
Do I transfer my domain or just change nameservers?
Just change nameservers. No transfer needed.
How long does Cloudflare propagation take?
Usually under 24 hours, often within hours.
Why did my email stop after moving to Cloudflare?
MX records weren't imported. Add them in Cloudflare DNS.
Is Cloudflare a registrar or DNS host?
Both, but most users just use DNS/CDN services.
Do I update DNS at my host or Cloudflare?
Cloudflare. They manage all DNS after switching.
What are Cloudflare nameservers?
Custom nameservers assigned to your account.
Can I use NameSilo with Cloudflare?
Yes. Keep registration at NameSilo, point nameservers to Cloudflare.
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