Configuring and managing a domain is an essential task that is often underestimated – until suddenly nothing works anymore. Whether it’s incorrect DNS entries, expired SSL certificates or a forgotten domain registration renewal: small mistakes can have big consequences. In this article, we show you the ten most common pitfalls in domain administration – and how you can avoid them.

1. inadequate protection of domain administration: how to prevent attacks

Without secure access control, someone can transfer your domain unnoticed or change important settings. If an attacker gains access to your account, they can not only hijack your domain, but also redirect emails or even delete your website.

Solution:

• Use a strong password with a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters.
• Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) to further protect your account.
• If your provider allows it, set up an IP whitelist so that only certain IPs have access to your account.
• Use a password manager to store your access data securely and prevent it from being used more than once.
• Check whether your registrar offers an additional “registry lock” function – this lock is set directly at the registry and makes domain transfers practically impossible as long as it is active.
• Tip: If you manage domains for customers, the ResellerInterface offers comprehensive security features such as 2FA, IP restrictions and role-based user rights to make access to your domain management even more secure.

2. misconfigured URL redirects: What you should bear in mind with domain forwarding

Incorrect URL redirection can lead to an infinite loop (error message “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS”). This often happens due to incorrect CMS settings, incorrectly configured plugins or duplicate redirects in the server configuration.

Solution:

• Check the forwarding rules in your .htaccess file or – if you use NGINX – in the server block settings.
• If you use a CMS such as WordPress, make sure that the redirects are set correctly there.
• Use a browser add-on such as“Redirect Path” to test redirects.
• If you are redirecting HTTP to HTTPS, make sure that your SSL certificate is set up correctly.

3. problems with SSL/TLS certificates in the domain administration

Without a valid SSL certificate, your website will appear insecure and visitors will receive a warning message. An expired certificate can lead to your site being blocked for users. Some hosters do not renew SSL certificates automatically, especially with wildcard certificates or certain free certificates such as Let’s Encrypt (expire after 90 days).

Solution:

• Use free SSL check tools such as SSLLabs or Let’s Encrypt to check your certificate.
• Activate automatic renewals if your provider supports this.
• If you use Let’s Encrypt, make sure that your web server has set up an ACME client for automatic renewals.
• Note that wildcard certificates often require a DNS challenge for validation.
• extensions – many managed hosters will do this for you.
• Note that wildcard certificates often require a DNS challenge for validation.
• Tip: You can use ResellerInterface to conveniently manage SSL certificates and activate automatic renewals to avoid failures.

4 Incorrect DNS configuration: Why the correct DNS entries are important

DNS entries determine where your domain points to. Incorrect entries can result in your website not being accessible or emails not arriving.

Solution:

• Check your DNS entries with tools such as MXToolbox or DNSChecker.
• Check whether your A-Record points to the correct IP address.
• If you use external email services (e.g. Google Workspace or Microsoft 365), make sure that your MX records are correct.
• Tip: With ResellerInterface you can easily manage DNS settings, including bulk changes for multiple domains and DNS templates for error-free configuration. Our interface also offers you a convenient backup system so that any errors are no longer the end of the world.

5. delays due to DNS propagation: why changes are not immediately visible

DNS updates often take up to 24 hours to take effect worldwide. If you have made changes and your website is not accessible, this is often due to propagation. However, some providers do not allow you to lower the TTL values individually in order to force a faster update.

Solution:

• Use DNS tools to check whether your new settings have already been propagated.
• If possible, reduce the TTL value of your DNS entries before making a change so that they are updated more quickly.

6th domain on a blacklist: What you can do to avoid blocking

If your domain ends up on a blacklist, your emails can be marked as spam or blocked. This often happens due to unauthorized use for sending spam.

Solution:

• Check your domain with MXToolbox to see if it is on a blacklist.
• Configure SPF, DKIM and DMARC entries to prevent misuse.
• If you have been blocked, contact the operators of the blacklist and request removal.

7 Incorrect DNSSEC settings: How to protect your domain from manipulation

DNSSEC protects your domain from manipulation, but can cause problems if configured incorrectly. An incorrectly set DS record can result in the domain no longer being resolvable at all.

Solution:

• Use tools such as DNSViz to check your DNSSEC settings.
• If errors occur after activation, please contact your hosting provider.

8. missed domain registration renewal: never lose your domain again

If you forget to renew your domain, it may expire and be registered by someone else. Some providers require you to top up your credit before the renewal takes place.

Solution:

• Activate automatic renewal.
• Make sure that a valid payment method is stored.
• Tip: ResellerInterface offers automatic domain renewal so that you don’t lose any important domains.

9. missing registrar lock: why transfer protection is important

Without a registrar lock, your domain can be transferred to another provider without your consent. Please note that some TLDs (e.g. .de) do not use a classic registrar lock, but have an AuthInfo code procedure for transfers.

Solution:

• Activate transfer protection (also called “domain lock”) in your domain administration if your TLD supports this.

10. trademark infringement when choosing a domain: How to avoid legal problems

Before you register a domain, you should make sure that it does not infringe any trademark rights. If your domain infringes an existing trademark, the trademark owner may take legal action against you. In addition to trademark law, name law (§ 12 BGB) and competition law may also be relevant.

Solution:

• Check the trademark register to see whether your desired domain name is already protected.
• If you are unsure, consult an expert in trademark law.

Conclusion

With the right security measures and a well thought-out DNS configuration, you can avoid many problems. If you are unsure, consult a professional or use specialized tools such as ResellerInterface to manage your domains professionally. A well-managed domain is the basis for your online success!

Short checklist before domain start:
✔️ SSL certificate valid and automatically renewable
✔️ DNS entries checked (A, MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC)
✔️ TTL adjusted before major changes
✔️ Registrar lock or AuthInfo code active
✔️ Automatic renewal + valid payment method
✔️ Trademark and name rights checked