---
title: "Verify DNS Propagation"
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/sites-stores/portal/domains-and-dns/verify-dns-propagation/"
description: "Check if your DNS updates are live. Use our free DNS checker tool to verify propagation status globally and troubleshoot domain connection issues."
vertical: "Sites & Stores"
date: "2019-09-09"
last_modified: "2026-07-02"
---

# Verify DNS Propagation

## **Introduction**

When you update your **[domain’s DNS records](https://docs.nexcess.com/hosting/portal/domains-and-dns/dns-management/what-are-dns-records/)**, such as changing an IP address or switching nameservers, the internet doesn’t notice instantly. These changes must “propagate” across servers worldwide, a process that typically takes 12 to 48 hours. During this transition, some visitors may still see your old site while others see the new one. This guide explains how to use our free tool to track exactly where your new records are live.

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## Prerequisites

- A publicly available domain.

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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**

1. **Visit** our free **[DNS Checker](https://www.liquidweb.com/tools/dns-checker/)** tool.
2. **Enter** your domain and **select** the appropriate **Record Type** from the dropdown. 
    - Select **A** if you changed your website’s IP address.
    - Select **NS** if you changed your nameservers.
    - Select **MX** if you changed your email provider.
3. **Click** **Look up DNS**.
4. **Review the results.** You will see a list of global locations. If the “Result” column matches your *new* settings, the change has propagated to that region.

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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Why is my DNS taking so long to propagate?**Propagation time depends on the “TTL” (Time To Live) setting on your old DNS records. If your TTL was set to 24 hours, servers worldwide will wait that long before checking for updates.

**Can I speed up DNS propagation?**You can’t speed it up *after* you’ve made the change. However, if you plan ahead, you can lower your TTL values a day before your migration to help produce faster updates next time.

****Why can I see the new site on my phone but not my computer?****Your computer or local wifi network might be “caching” (remembering) the old IP address. Try clearing your browser cache or **[flushing your local DNS](https://docs.nexcess.com/hosting/portal/domains-and-dns/dns-management/flushing-your-local-dns-cache/).**

****What does it mean if I see different IP addresses in different countries?****This is normal during the propagation window. It means the update has reached some parts of the world but not others. Wait a few more hours and check again.