How to Create a Subdomain in cPanel

A subdomain acts like an extension of your primary domain name, allowing you to create completely separate websites without having to register a new domain name. Common examples include blog.yourdomain.com, shop.yourdomain.com, or staging.yourdomain.com. Every Hostinap Shared Hosting plan allows unlimited subdomains.

Step 1: Open the Subdomains Tool

Log in to your cPanel dashboard. Scroll down to the Domains section and click on the Subdomains icon.

Step 2: Fill in the Subdomain Details

• Subdomain: Enter the prefix you want to use. For example, type shop or blog (do not type the full domain name here).
• Domain: From the dropdown menu, select the main domain you want this subdomain attached to.
• Document Root: This field will automatically populate with a folder path (e.g., public_html/shop or simply /shop depending on your cPanel version). This is the physical folder where your subdomain's website files will be stored. We recommend leaving the default value.

Step 3: Click Create

Click the Create button. cPanel will update your DNS zone and create the necessary folder in your File Manager. Your subdomain is now active.

How to Install WordPress on the Subdomain

Installing WordPress on a subdomain is identical to installing it on a main domain.

1. Go back to the cPanel home screen and click on WordPress Manager by Softaculous.
2. Click Install.
3. In the Choose Installation URL section, open the Choose Domain dropdown and select your newly created subdomain (e.g. shop.yourdomain.com).
4. Ensure the In Directory field is empty (unless you want it to be shop.yourdomain.com/wp).
5. Fill out the admin credentials and click Install.

How to Delete a Subdomain

If you no longer need the subdomain, return to cPanel > Subdomains. Under the Modify a Subdomain list at the bottom, find the subdomain and click the Remove button. Warning: This removes the DNS entry, but it does NOT delete the files from the Document Root folder in File Manager. You must delete the folder manually if you want to free up disk space.

SSL on Subdomains

Hostinap's AutoSSL will automatically issue a free SSL certificate for your new subdomain, usually within 15–30 minutes of creation. If it shows as "Not Secure," simply wait an hour or run AutoSSL manually in cPanel.