Skip to main content

How to Upload a DNS Zone File During Domain Transfer

Uploading a DNS Zone File during a domain transfer ensures all existing DNS records are preserved so websites and email continue working without interruption.

Updated over 2 months ago

Who This Is For / When to Use

  • Accounts transferring a domain into Kyrios.

  • Users at the Review DNS Records step of a domain transfer.

  • Anyone who wants the most accurate way to migrate DNS settings.


What Is a DNS Zone File

A DNS Zone File is a text-based file exported from your current DNS provider that contains all DNS records for a domain.

It typically includes:

  • A Records

  • CNAME Records

  • MX Records

  • TXT Records

Uploading this file allows Kyrios to recreate your DNS configuration exactly as it exists today.


Why Uploading a Zone File Is Recommended

Domain transfers do not automatically migrate DNS records.

Uploading a zone file:

  • Preserves website routing.

  • Prevents email delivery issues.

  • Reduces manual errors.

  • Ensures all records are transferred at once.

This is the most accurate method for maintaining service continuity during a transfer.


When You Upload the Zone File

You upload the zone file during Step 3: Review DNS Records of the domain transfer process.

At this step, choose Import Records and upload the file provided by your current DNS provider.


How to Export a DNS Zone File

Export methods vary by provider. Below are the supported and recommended approaches.


Exporting from GoDaddy

GoDaddy allows DNS zone file exports.

Use GoDaddy’s official instructions to download the zone file, then upload it to Kyrios during the transfer.


Exporting from Cloudflare

Cloudflare supports DNS exports.

Use Cloudflare’s DNS export tools to download the zone file, then upload it to Kyrios.


Exporting from Namecheap

Namecheap does not support direct DNS zone file downloads.

To migrate DNS from Namecheap:

  • Manually recreate DNS records in Kyrios, or

  • Contact Namecheap support to request record details

Zone file uploads are not available from Namecheap at this time.


Exporting from IONOS

IONOS provides multiple export options depending on setup.

You can use:

  • Domain Exports

  • Cloud DNS tools

  • IONOS API documentation

Export the DNS data using one of these methods and upload the resulting file to Kyrios.


After Uploading the Zone File

Once uploaded:

  • Kyrios parses all DNS records automatically.

  • Records appear in the DNS review list.

  • You can manually edit records if needed before finalizing the transfer.

No records are applied until you proceed to the next step.


Common Issues and Fixes

Website or email stops working after transfer

  • DNS records were missing or incomplete.

  • Recheck that A, MX, and CNAME records were included in the zone file.

Zone file upload fails

  • Ensure the file is in plain text format.

  • Do not upload screenshots or PDFs.

Records look incorrect after upload

  • Compare the uploaded records against your current provider.

  • Correct any discrepancies before finalizing the transfer.


FAQ

Why do I need to preserve DNS records during a transfer?

DNS records control where website and email traffic is sent. If they are missing, services may stop working during or after the transfer.

What is the most accurate way to migrate DNS settings?

Uploading a DNS Zone File exported from your current provider is the most accurate method.

Which DNS records are included in a zone file?

A standard zone file includes:

  • A Records for website routing

  • CNAME Records for aliases

  • MX Records for email delivery

  • TXT Records for verification and security

Can I download a zone file from Namecheap?

No. Namecheap does not support zone file downloads. Records must be recreated manually or obtained from their support team.

Can I edit the zone file before uploading?

It is technically possible but not recommended. Editing errors can break your domain. Upload the file as-is and make changes in Kyrios after import.

Did this answer your question?