Configuring name servers correctly is crucial for smooth domain management. WHM cPanel offers tools to validate and troubleshoot name server settings. This knowledge base provides detailed information on how to validate and rectify name server configurations.

1. Accessing Name Server Configuration:

   • Log in to WHM.

   • Navigate to the 'Server Configuration' section.

   • Click on 'Basic WebHost Manager Setup'.

2. Primary Name Server Configuration:

   • Ensure that the Primary Name Server is correctly set.

   • This is usually in the format of 'ns1.yourdomain.com'.

   • Verify that it resolves to the correct IP address.

3. Secondary Name Server Configuration:

   • Set up Secondary Name Servers if required.

   • These are backup servers and are typically in the format of 'ns2.yourdomain.com'.

   • Confirm they point to the correct IP address.

4. Tertiary Name Server Configuration (Optional):

   • If applicable, configure Tertiary Name Servers.

   • These serve as additional backups and are typically in the format of 'ns3.yourdomain.com'.

   • Verify their IP addresses.

5. Name Server Resolver Configuration:

   • WHM cPanel allows you to specify the resolver IPs used by your server.

   • Go to 'Resolver Configuration' to set these.

   • Ensure they are accurate to avoid DNS resolution issues.

6. Checking Name Server Zones:

   • Navigate to 'DNS Functions' in WHM.

   • Click on 'Edit DNS Zone' to review and modify DNS records.

   • Confirm that all name server records are correctly configured.

7. Verifying DNS Records:

   • In 'Edit DNS Zone', review the records related to your name servers.

   • Ensure that NS (Name Server) records point to the correct name server domains.

8. Validating Reverse DNS Entries:

   • Proper Reverse DNS (rDNS) entries are vital for email deliverability.

   • Access 'Edit Reverse DNS' in WHM and verify that entries match the respective IP addresses.

9. Utilizing the 'Resolver Test' Feature:

   • WHM cPanel includes a 'Resolver Test' tool to check the status of your server's resolvers.

   • It confirms whether they can reach external DNS servers.

10. Checking for DNS Cluster Configuration:

    • If using a DNS cluster, ensure it's correctly set up.

    • Verify that all servers in the cluster are synchronized and resolving properly.

11. Testing Name Server Resolution:

    • Use external tools or command-line utilities to verify if your name servers are resolving correctly.

    • Tools like 'nslookup' or 'dig' can be used for this purpose.

12. Monitoring DNS Logs for Errors:

    • Regularly review DNS logs for any errors or warnings.

    • Address any issues promptly to maintain smooth DNS operation.

13. Troubleshooting Common Name Server Issues:

    • If you encounter problems, consult WHM's built-in documentation or community forums for guidance.

    • Common issues include incorrect IP addresses, misconfigured DNS records, and resolver problems.

14. Setting up DNSSEC (Optional):

    • If applicable, configure DNSSEC for added security.

    • WHM cPanel provides tools to manage DNSSEC keys and signatures.

15. Implementing DNS Monitoring Tools:

    • Consider using external DNS monitoring services to receive alerts for any DNS-related issues.

Conclusion:

Correctly configuring and validating name servers is essential for seamless domain management. WHM cPanel offers a suite of tools to assist in this process. By following the steps outlined in this knowledge base, you can ensure that your name server configurations are accurate and reliable, thereby enhancing the overall performance of your server.