Knowledge base
1000 FAQs, 500 tutorials and explanatory videos. Here, there are only solutions!
Understanding the difference between Synonym and Alias domains
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
So-called synonym domain names (i.e., domains that are entirely dependent on the main domain, without their own DNS configuration) and alias (independent domains, with their own DNS configuration) can both serve as secondary domains associated with a main domain.
For example, the domains pomme.xyz (alias) and banane.xyz (synonym) can redirect to a common main domain such as fruits.xyz.
Here is the technical distinction to remember:
- The synonym (also called "linked domain" or "DNS mirror") directly uses the DNS servers of the main domain. It has no DNS zone of its own.
- The alias (also called "redirected independent domain" or "DNS alias") has its own DNS records (independent DNS zone), although it points to the same hosting or services.
| pomme.xyz (domain alias – with custom DNS) ns1.personnalisable.ch ns2.personnalisable.ch | ⇢ | Own DNS zone A records, MX, etc. | Web Hosting Email Service |
| fruits.xyz (domain main) ns1.infomaniak.ch ns2.infomaniak.ch | } | Own DNS zone A records, MX, etc. | |
| banane.xyz (domain synonym – without own DNS) Automatically retrieves the DNS of the main domain (fruits.xyz) |
Learn more
- How to add a domain as a synonym
- How to dissociate a synonym domain
- Understanding the difference between domains and DNS zones
Link to this FAQ: