This guide explains the difference between the terms synonym and alias in the context of the Domain Name service offered by Infomaniak.

Synonym domain / alias domain

Synonym domains (i.e., domains that depend entirely on the main domain, without their own DNS configuration) and alias domains (independent domains, with their own DNS configuration) can both serve as secondary domains associated with a main domain.

For example, the pomme.xyz (alias) and banane.xyz (synonym) domains can redirect to a common main domain such as fruits.xyz.

Here is the key technical distinction to remember:

• A synonym (also called a "linked domain" or "DNS mirror") directly uses the DNS servers of the main domain. It does not have its own DNS zone.
• An alias (also called a "standalone domain redirected" or "DNS alias") has its own DNS records (independent DNS zone), even though it points to the same hosting or the same services.

Learn more

• How to add a domain as an alias
• How to remove a domain alias
• Understanding the difference between domains and DNS zones