When managing websites and hosting, it’s important to understand the different types of domains you may encounter. Each serves a specific purpose and allows you to organize or expand your web presence efficiently.
1. Addon Domain
Definition:
An Addon Domain is an additional domain you can host under your main hosting account. It functions as a completely separate website with its own content and structure.
Key Features:
-
Hosted under the same account as your primary domain.
-
Gets its own directory (e.g.,
/public_html/example2.com/). -
Visitors see it as a completely independent website.
Example:
If your main domain is example.com, you could add example2.com as an addon domain and build a separate site.
2. Subdomain
Definition:
A Subdomain is a subsection of your main domain used to organize content or separate functions.
Key Features:
-
Appears as a prefix to your main domain (e.g.,
blog.example.com). -
Shares the same root domain but can have its own directory and content.
-
Great for blogs, stores, support portals, and regional sites.
Example:
Use shop.example.com for your online store while your main domain remains as your homepage.
3. Alias Domain (Parked Domain)
Definition:
An Alias Domain, also known as a Parked Domain, is a domain that mirrors another domain. It displays the same website content as the domain it's pointing to.
Key Features:
-
No separate website content.
-
Used to direct multiple domain names to a single site.
-
Useful for brand protection or simpler domain alternatives.
Example:
Point example.net and example.org to example.com so users reach the same website no matter which domain they type.
4. Primary Domain
Definition:
Your Primary Domain is the main domain associated with your hosting account. It’s typically chosen at the time of signup.
Key Features:
-
Root domain of your hosting environment.
-
Other domain types (Addon, Sub, Alias) are managed under it.
-
Changing it usually requires assistance from your hosting provider.
Example:
If you signed up with example.com, that’s your primary domain. Everything else is organized around it.
???? Quick Recap
| Domain Type | Acts as a Separate Site? | Has Its Own Directory? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addon | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Host a different website |
| Subdomain | ❌ No (part of main) | ✅ Yes | Organize sections (blog, store) |
| Alias | ❌ No | ❌ No | Point multiple domains to same site |
| Primary | ✅ Yes (main site) | ✅ Yes (root folder) | Main domain of your hosting |
Final Thoughts
Each domain type—Addon, Subdomain, Alias, and Primary—has unique functions to help you manage websites, improve structure, and expand your brand presence. Understanding the differences helps you make informed decisions about domain and hosting configurations.
If you're not sure which setup is best for your needs, consult your hosting provider or reach out to our support team.
