Difference between parked, addon and sub domains

In cPanel, there are three types of domain configurations: parked domains, addon domains, and subdomains. Each type serves a specific purpose and has its unique characteristics:

Parked Domains:

Parked domains (also known as domain aliases) are additional domain names that are mapped to the same content as your primary domain. This means that when someone visits the parked domain, they will see the same website as the one displayed on your main domain. Parked domains are useful for protecting brand identity and ensuring that visitors who mistype your domain or use different domain extensions still reach your website.

For example, if your primary domain is ‘example.co.uk’, you can park ‘example.com’ and ‘example.org’, so that all three domains display the same website content.

Addon Domains:

Addon domains are separate domain names that are added to your existing cPanel account, allowing you to host multiple, independent websites on a single hosting account. Each addon domain will have its own directory, email accounts, and database(s), separate from your primary domain.

For example, if your primary domain is ‘example.co.uk’, you can add ‘anotherdomain.com’ as an addon domain, and it will function as a separate website with its own content and email accounts.

Subdomains:

Subdomains are extensions of your main domain, which allow you to create separate sections or websites within your primary domain. Subdomains are typically used for organising content, creating separate environments (such as development or staging), or providing different services under the same domain.

For example, if your primary domain is ‘example.co.uk’, you can create subdomains like ‘blog.example.co.uk’ or ‘store.example.co.uk’, each with its own content and purpose.

How to Setup:

When logged into cPanel, select domains:

Create a New Domain:

Then you can add a parked domain, addon domain or subdomain:

In summary, parked domains are used to display the same content as your primary domain, addon domains enable you to host multiple independent websites under a single hosting account, and subdomains help you organise content or services within your primary domain. Each domain type serves a distinct purpose, and you can utilise them based on your specific needs and goals.