Pointing a subdomain to another server allows you to host different parts of your website on different servers without changing your main domain. This is useful for improving performance, organization, and scalability.
If you have a web domain and need a specific part of it to run on another server (for example, a blog, a store, or an internal system), pointing a subdomain to another server is the right solution. You don’t need advanced knowledge or to change your entire site.
In this guide, we explain what a subdomain is, why it’s a good idea to use one, and how to point it to another server step by step, clearly and without unnecessary technical jargon.
What is a subdomain?
A subdomain is an extension of your main domain. For example:
- Main domain:
yoursite.com - Subdomain:
blog.yoursite.com
Subdomains function as independent sites, even though they are associated with the same web domain.
What is the purpose of pointing a subdomain to another server?
Pointing a subdomain to another server allows you to:
- Use different hosting services
Separate projects without purchasing new domains
Improve speed or stability
Test developments without affecting the main website
It is a common practice in both small projects and large companies.
What you need before you start
Before configuring the subdomain, make sure you have:
- An active web domain
- Access to the DNS control panel
- The destination server address (IP or name)
If your domain is registered with Neolo, all of this can be managed from one place.
How to point a subdomain to another server (step by step)
1. Log in to the DNS manager
Access the panel where you manage your web domain. In Neolo, you will find it within domain management.
2. Create the subdomain
Define the name of the subdomain, for example:
app.yoursite.comstore.yoursite.com
This does not create the site, it only declares it within the domain.
3. Configure the correct record
Here you have two common options:
Option A: Point with an A record
- Type: A
- Name: subdomain (for example,
blog) - Value: IP of the other server
This is the most commonly used and simplest option.
Option B: Point with a CNAME record
- Type: CNAME
- Name: subdomain
- Value: server address (example:
server.otherhosting.com)
Recommended if the provider changes IPs automatically.
4. Save the changes and wait
The changes are not immediate. The normal propagation time is:
- Between 5 minutes and 24 hours
During that time, the subdomain may work intermittently.
Practical example
Let’s suppose that:
- Your domain is with Neolo
- Your main website is still with Neolo
- You want to host
blog.yoursite.comon another server
You just need to create the subdomain and point it to the IP address provided by the other provider. The main domain is not affected.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Pointing the subdomain without the destination server being active
- Misspelling the IP address or server name
- Confusing subdomain with folder
- Not waiting for the propagation time
Little-known tips about subdomains
- A subdomain does not automatically inherit security certificates
- You can use subdomains for testing without affecting the ranking of the main site
- Google treats each subdomain as a separate site
- They are ideal for separating services without overloading a single server
Does using subdomains affect SEO?
It’s not negative, but you should keep in mind:
- Each subdomain is positioned separately
- It needs its own content and optimization
- When used well, they improve the structure of the project
Conclusion
Pointing a subdomain to another server is a simple and effective way to organize, scale, and optimize your web project. It does not require advanced knowledge and gives you a lot of technical flexibility.
If you manage your web domains at Neolo, the process is fast, clear, and supported in Spanish.
FAQs – Frequently asked questions
Is a subdomain free?
Yes. You do not need to pay for another domain.
Can I have multiple subdomains?
Yes, as many as you need.
Do I need different hosting?
Only if you want to point it to another server.
Is it reversible?
Yes. You can change the destination whenever you want.