Quick Answer
How do you move DNS management to Cloudflare?
Add the domain to Cloudflare, let Cloudflare scan the existing DNS records, confirm the important records are present, then replace the current nameservers at your registrar with the two Cloudflare nameservers provided. After the switch, review the DNS records again and test the domain.
What You’re Doing
Cloudflare can become the place where your domain’s DNS records and nameservers are managed.
The normal process is to let Cloudflare scan the current DNS records, review what was imported, replace the nameservers at the registrar, and then manage DNS from Cloudflare going forward.
Nameserver Change vs. Registrar Transfer
Changing nameservers so Cloudflare manages DNS is not the same as transferring the domain registration itself. You can point the nameservers to Cloudflare while keeping the domain registered with your current registrar.
Cloudflare Transfer at a Glance
Before You Begin
Review the domain’s existing DNS configuration before changing nameservers.
- Have access to both Cloudflare and the current domain registrar.
- Review or save a copy of the existing DNS records before the switch.
- If DNSSEC is enabled, disable it before changing nameservers.
Step 1: Add Your Site in Cloudflare
Add the Domain
Log in to Cloudflare and click Add site.
Enter the Domain
Enter the domain, such as yourdomain.com, and choose the Cloudflare plan you want to use. The source guide notes that the Free plan works for many setups.
Let Cloudflare Scan DNS
Allow Cloudflare to scan the domain’s existing DNS records.
Review Imported Records
Check the imported records and confirm important records such as A, CNAME, MX, and TXT are present.
Keep a Copy of the Existing DNS
Before continuing, take a screenshot or export the current DNS records from the registrar so you have a reference if anything does not import correctly.
Step 2: Update Nameservers at Your Registrar
Copy the Cloudflare Nameservers
In Cloudflare, click Continue and copy the two Cloudflare nameservers provided.
Open the Registrar
Log in to the registrar where the domain is currently registered.
Replace the Existing Nameservers
Find the domain’s Nameservers settings and replace the existing values with the Cloudflare nameservers.
Confirm the Change in Cloudflare
Return to Cloudflare and click Done, check nameservers.
Allow Time for Nameserver Propagation
Nameserver changes can take time to propagate. During the change, avoid editing DNS in multiple places and use Cloudflare as the DNS management location going forward.
DNS Records and Proxy Mode
After the nameserver change, review the DNS records in Cloudflare and confirm that each one points to the correct destination.
Some BizStackPro domain connection setups may require specific A or CNAME records to use DNS only rather than Cloudflare proxy mode.
If the Domain Connection Fails
If a BizStackPro domain connection does not work after the nameserver switch, try setting the relevant A or CNAME records to DNS only using the gray-cloud setting, then test the connection again.
Transfer and DNS Tips
Disable DNSSEC Before the Switch
If DNSSEC is enabled at the registrar, disable it before changing nameservers because incorrect DS records can cause DNS resolution problems during the change.
Unlock the Domain for a Registrar Transfer
If you are transferring the actual domain registration, disable the Registrar Lock or Domain Lock.
Keep the EPP/Auth Code Available
An EPP or Auth code may be required when performing an actual registrar transfer.
Be Aware of Transfer Restrictions
Some domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer. Certain WHOIS or contact changes, domain types, or domain statuses may also affect eligibility.
Recheck Important DNS Records
After the switch, verify website A/CNAME records, email MX/TXT records, and any required verification TXT records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to transfer my domain to Cloudflare?
First, add your site in Cloudflare and let it scan your DNS records. Then update the nameservers at your domain registrar to the Cloudflare nameservers provided, and confirm in Cloudflare.
Why do I need to disable DNSSEC before transferring my domain?
DNSSEC should be disabled before changing nameservers because it can cause DNS resolution issues if the DS records aren’t updated correctly during the switch.
How do I unlock my domain for transfer?
Log in to your registrar and disable the Registrar Lock (sometimes called Domain Lock) to unlock the domain.
What are the restrictions for transferring a domain to Cloudflare?
Some domains can’t be transferred within 60 days of registration or a prior transfer. Transfers may also be restricted after certain WHOIS/contact changes, and some domain types or statuses may be ineligible.
What should I do if my DNS records are incorrect after the transfer?
Review the DNS records in Cloudflare and manually correct A, CNAME, MX, TXT (and any required) records to match your hosting/provider configuration, then re-test your domain.
Continue Learning
Continue with the related Cloudflare and domain guides to finish configuring DNS and connect the domain to your BizStackPro funnel or website.
