Setting up a .gov domain

Follow the steps on this page to connect your domain to DNS hosting, configure important account and security settings, and learn what to expect as we prepare your domain for secure use.

To get started, sign in to the .gov registrar using your Login.gov account.

Add domain name server information

Before your .gov domain can be used, you’ll first need to connect it to a Domain Name System (DNS) hosting service. A DNS hosting service stores your domain’s DNS records and directs traffic for your domain to the correct websites, email, and other online services. Your organization may manage DNS itself or use a third-party DNS hosting provider.

After you’ve set up hosting, you’ll need to enter your name server information on the .gov registrar.

Learn more about:

• Finding a DNS hosting service
• Adding name servers

Add domain managers, security email

After registration, the only person who has access to manage a domain is typically the person who requested it. To ensure your organization retains access, we strongly recommend that you add additional domain managers

We also recommend adding a security email to your domain so that the public can report security issues to your organization.

Learn more about:

• Adding domain managers
• Adding a security email
• Domain security best practices

We’ll preload the domain

We add new .gov domains to the HSTS preload list. This requires browsers to use a secure HTTPS connection to any website at this domain and ensures the content you publish is exactly what your visitors get. It also means you’ll need to support HTTPS anywhere the domain is used for websites — on the internet or internally.

Learn more about:

• Preloading a domain
• Why we preload new domains

Getting help with your domain

Whether you have questions during setup or need support later, we’re here to help. Browse our help content for step-by-step guidance, or contact us if you need additional assistance.