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To make your website work correctly, your domain (for example, example.com) must be connected to Zonely. You can do this using a DNS management service such as Cloudflare, which makes the process easy and secure. This guide will show you step by step how to point your domain and configure Zonely properly.
Cloudflare is an ideal option for connecting your domain safely and easily.

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Why Use Cloudflare?

  • Easy setup: Cloudflare lets you configure domain redirection without complex settings.
  • Faster loading: Visitors worldwide experience faster page loading through Cloudflare’s CDN.
  • Protection against attacks: Cloudflare blocks harmful or excessive traffic to prevent downtime.
  • Secure connection: Cloudflare enables HTTPS, encrypting all site data and showing the lock icon in browsers.
  • Visitor analytics: Track who visits your site and from where.
  • Free plan: Most Cloudflare features are free, making it perfect for beginners.

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Pointing Your Domain via Cloudflare

Cloudflare helps improve your site’s speed and security. Follow these steps to connect your domain through Cloudflare.
1

Sign Up for Cloudflare

Go to cloudflare.com and click Sign Up. Enter your email, create a password, and register for a free account.
2

Add Your Domain

After creating your account, click Add a Site and enter your domain (for example, example.com). Follow the on-screen steps.
3

Change Name Servers

Cloudflare will provide two name servers. Enter these in your domain registrar’s control panel. This transfers DNS control to Cloudflare.
4

Configure DNS Settings

Once name servers are updated, adjust DNS records in the Cloudflare dashboard:
  • A Record (Root Domain):
    • Type: A
    • Name: @
    • Value: Your server’s IP address
  • CNAME Record (www Redirect):
    • Type: CNAME
    • Name: www
    • Value: example.com
5

Verify Activation

When setup is complete, your domain will appear as Active in Cloudflare. This confirms everything works correctly. Your site will now load faster and more securely.

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Cloudflare WAF Settings (Firewall)

Cloudflare’s WAF (Web Application Firewall) not only speeds up your site but also protects it by automatically blocking malicious traffic such as SQL injection or XSS attacks.
1

Log In to Cloudflare Dashboard

Go to dash.cloudflare.com and sign in.
2

Select Your Domain

Choose the domain you want to protect.image.png
3

Open the 'Security' Tab

From the side menu, select Security.
4

Add Firewall Rules

You can manually create Firewall Rules to limit traffic from specific countries, IPs, or high-threat requests.Steps:
  • Go to Security > WAF > Custom Rules
  • Click Create rule
  • Name it (example: Block Foreign Traffic)
  • Conditions:
    • Field: Country
    • Operator: does not equal
    • Value: Turkey
  • Choose an action: Block or JS Challenge (Captcha) image (39).png
5

Enable Bot Protection

Cloudflare’s Bot Fight Mode blocks most malicious bots before they reach your site.Steps:
  • Go to Security > Bots
  • Enable Bot Fight Mode image (40).png
6

DDoS Protection

Cloudflare automatically shields your site from DDoS attacks by filtering harmful traffic. No manual activation is needed.Instructions:
  • Select your domain
  • Go to Security > DDoS
  • Review protection summaries and past incidents. image (41).png
7

Use 'Deploy a DDoS Override'

If you need stronger protection during large-scale attacks, use Deploy a DDoS Override to apply strict settings.How to Use:
  • Go to Security > DDoS
  • Click Deploy a DDoS Override
  • Name the override (example: Emergency Protection)
  • Choose the protection type (Block or Challenge)
  • Set sensitivity (Low / Medium / High)
  • Save and activate it. image (42).png
8

Under Attack Mode (Optional)

If your site is unresponsive or under heavy attack, enable Under Attack Mode. Visitors will briefly see a verification screen before accessing your site.When to Use:
  • The site slows down or becomes inaccessible
  • Suspected bot or DDoS traffic
  • The admin panel is accessible but the site does not respond
How to Enable:
  1. Log in to Cloudflare
  2. Select your domain
  3. Go to Settings
  4. Find Security Level
  5. Set it to Under Attack

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Other DNS Providers

You can also use other DNS providers. Many registrars offer simple panels for managing DNS after purchasing a domain. You can manually add A, CNAME, or MX records to connect your domain to your server. While each provider’s interface differs, the core principle remains the same: point your domain to your server’s IP address. Look for sections like DNS Management or Domain Settings in your provider’s help documentation for guidance.