Glossary: DNS
What is a CNAME Record?
A DNS record that points one name at another name, rather than at an IP address.
What it is
CNAME stands for canonical name. A common example is pointing www.example.co.uk at example.co.uk. If the address of the main name changes, the CNAME follows it automatically.
CNAME or A record?
An A record points at an IP address, while a CNAME points at another name. Use a CNAME when a service gives you a name to point at, as many email and website services do.
Its main limit
A name with a CNAME can't normally hold other records as well. That means you usually can't put one on your main domain (example.co.uk), because that name also needs records such as MX. Some DNS providers offer workarounds.