My Domain Isn't Validating — Common DNS Issues and Fixes

First: Which Method Are You On?

Open your domain in the dashboard. If LinkHaven asked you to change your nameservers, use the first section. If it gave you DNS records to add (CNAME/TXT — Cloudflare-registered domains and the fallback method), use the second.

Nameserver Method: Stuck on "Pending connection"

1. The Change Didn't Actually Save

Registrars often ask for an extra confirmation (a button, sometimes an email link) after you edit nameservers. Go back to your registrar's nameserver page and confirm both LinkHaven nameservers are showing as the CURRENT values.

2. A Typo, or an Extra Nameserver Left Behind

Both values must match exactly what LinkHaven shows, and there should be no additional nameservers left in the list. Remove any others and re-save.

3. It Just Needs Time

Nameserver changes usually take effect in 5 minutes to 1 hour, but registrars publish them on their own schedule — up to 48 hours is within normal. If your registrar shows the right values and it's been under 48 hours, wait it out; the status flips automatically.

DNS-Records Method: Stuck on "Waiting" or "Failed"

1. A Record Value Has a Typo

Copy-paste, never retype. Open the live panel on your domain card and compare each value character-by-character with your DNS provider.

2. The TXT Record Saved Under the Wrong Name

The SSL records are named like _acme-challenge.yourname.com. Some DNS providers want only the part before your domain in the Name field (enter _acme-challenge); pasting the full name can save it as _acme-challenge.yourname.com.yourname.com — broken. If in doubt, save it both ways and see which one validates.

3. Old Records Are in the Way

If the domain previously pointed at another website, leftover A, AAAA, or CNAME records on the same names block the new ones. Remove the old records for your bare domain and www.

4. On Cloudflare: the Orange Cloud

The two CNAME records must be set to DNS only (grey cloud). Click the orange cloud icon to turn it grey, then save.

5. Your Network Is Caching

LinkHaven checks from our servers, not your device — trust the live panel over what your own browser sees. Caches clear within an hour.

When None of This Works

If you're past 24 hours (nameserver: 48) with everything matching, contact support with your domain name and a screenshot of your registrar's settings — we'll find what's blocking it.