A hostname target, not a URL
The target is a hostname without a protocol or path. It is not an IPv4 address. The destination service must recognise your domain and provide a certificate. Correct DNS does not prove that the provider has activated the domain mapping.
Avoid other records on the same host
A regular CNAME cannot share its owner name with A, MX or TXT records. The zone apex has required records, so use only a specifically supported apex-alias feature there. CNAME is often simpler for www. Avoid unnecessary alias chains.
Your practical checklist
- Copy only the target hostname.
- Check records on the same host.
- Avoid a regular apex CNAME.
- Activate the domain at the website provider.
A useful question
Is CNAME the same as forwarding?
No. It is a DNS alias, not an HTTP redirect to a different URL.
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Sources & further reading
Original guide by chname.ch editorial. Archive dates organise this library; this guide was created and reviewed on . Provider and registry instructions take precedence when requirements change.