A subdomain is a third-level domain (e.g., blog.yourdomain.com) that can host a separate section of your website or an entirely different site. Subdomains share resources with your main domain but can have their own settings and content. This guide covers creating subdomains in Plesk.
Adding a Subdomain
- Log in to Plesk.
- Go to Websites & Domains.
- Click Add Subdomain.
- Fill in the required fields:
- Subdomain name: Enter the prefix (e.g.,
blogforblog.yourdomain.com). - Document root: The directory where the subdomain files will be stored. By default, Plesk suggests
/subdomain/httpdocs. You can change this if needed. - Secure the subdomain with SSL/TLS: Check this box to secure the subdomain with a free Let Encrypt certificate (if available on your subscription).
- Subdomain name: Enter the prefix (e.g.,
- Click OK.
- The new subdomain will appear in the list under Websites & Domains.
Wildcard Subdomains
If you enter an asterisk (*) as the subdomain name, Plesk creates a wildcard subdomain. Any subdomain that is not explicitly registered will redirect to the wildcard subdomain.
- Useful for applications that need to handle all subdomains (e.g., multi-tenant apps).
- To create one, enter
*in the Subdomain name field.
Accessing Your Subdomain
- Your subdomain will be accessible at
https://subdomain.yourdomain.comafter DNS propagation. - Plesk automatically creates the necessary DNS records (A record) for the subdomain.
- Upload your files to the document root directory you specified during creation.
Important Notes
- Subdomains share resources (disk space, traffic) with your main domain subscription.
- You cannot create a subdomain for a domain that is not already added to your Plesk account.
- If your domain DNS is managed externally, you may need to add an A record for the subdomain at your DNS provider.
Troubleshooting
Subdomain is not accessible:
- Wait for DNS propagation (up to 48 hours if DNS is managed externally).
- Verify the A record for the subdomain exists in your DNS settings.
- Ensure you have uploaded files to the correct document root directory.
"Maximum number of subdomains reached":
- Contact your hosting provider to increase your subdomain limit.
