How DNS Propagation Works: Why Domain Changes Take 24-48 Hours

How DNS Propagation Works: Why Domain Changes Take 24-48 Hours

By Michael Chen

March 21, 2025 at 05:19 PM

Domain name updates typically take 24-48 hours to propagate across the internet due to a process called DNS propagation. This waiting period, which can occasionally extend to 72 hours, is necessary for changes to spread across global servers.

When you make changes to a domain name's settings, here's what happens:

  1. DNS records are updated in the main directory servers maintained by ICANN
  2. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must refresh their cached copies of these records
  3. Different servers around the world gradually update to reflect the changes

The process takes time because:

  • ISPs cache DNS records to improve loading speeds
  • These cached records are only refreshed periodically
  • Updates must reach servers worldwide
  • Different regions may update at different times

During propagation:

  • Your domain might work on some devices but not others
  • Old settings might still appear in some locations
  • The process cannot be expedited

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To check propagation progress:

  • Use Whatsmydns.net to track your domain's status globally
  • Be patient during the 24-48 hour window
  • Contact your domain provider only if issues persist after 48 hours

Remember that this delay is a normal part of the internet's infrastructure and affects all domain changes, regardless of the provider. The waiting period helps maintain the stability and reliability of the domain name system.

If your domain isn't working after the full propagation period, verify your DNS settings with your provider to ensure they're configured correctly.

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