Real example — connecting a domain to a WordPress host
The scenario
Let's say your client Maya's Bakery just bought `mayasbakery.com` on Namecheap, and you built their WordPress site on SiteGround. SiteGround gives you a server IP of `198.51.100.25`. Here's exactly what you'd add in Namecheap's DNS settings.
Step 1 — Log into Namecheap
Go to Domain List → Manage → Advanced DNS.
Step 2 — Add these records
- A recordHost: `@`, Value: `198.51.100.25`, TTL: Automatic
- A recordHost: `www`, Value: `198.51.100.25`, TTL: Automatic
- CNAME recordHost: `www`, Value: `mayasbakery.com`, TTL: Automatic
Some hosts prefer you point `www` as a CNAME to the root domain instead of a second A record. Check your host's documentation — SiteGround and most cPanel hosts are fine with either.
What each line does
- A @ 198.51.100.25points the root domain (`mayasbakery.com`) to the server
- A www 198.51.100.25points `www.mayasbakery.com` to the same server
- After savingwait 1–24 hours for propagation
Step 3 — Verify it's working
Go to whatsmydns.net → enter `mayasbakery.com` → select A record → you should see `198.51.100.25` showing up across global servers.
Step 4 — Activate SSL on SiteGround
Log into SiteGround → Site Tools → Security → SSL Manager → select the domain → install Let's Encrypt. Done. The site is now live at `https://mayasbakery.com`.