Buying a domain is easy. Setting it up the right way is where most beginners get stuck. The Namecheap plus Cloudflare combo gives you a cheap domain, free privacy, faster loading times, and strong security without paying extra.
This guide walks you through the full setup step by step so your domain is live, secure, and ready to connect to any website or hosting.
Why Use Namecheap and Cloudflare Together
Namecheap
Namecheap is popular because:
- Domains are affordable, often under ten dollars a year
- Free domain privacy is included so your personal info stays hidden
- The dashboard is simple and easy to use
Affordable domain registration with free privacy protection. Namecheap is one of the best options for buying domains at low prices. It’s great for individuals and businesses looking for a simple, budget-friendly way to secure a domain and set up a website.
Sale up to 38% off
Web hosting and email services included.
Easy-to-use website builder and management tools.
Cloudflare
Cloudflare adds:
- Faster page loads
- Free SSL security
- Protection from bots and attacks
- Easy DNS management
You get performance and security without paying anything.
Step 1: Buy Your Domain on Namecheap
- Go to Namecheap and search for your domain
- Pick a clean, easy to read name
- Add it to your cart
- Skip extra offers like hosting and SSL
- Make sure Domain Privacy is turned on
- Complete your purchase
Your domain is now owned by you.
Step 2: Create a Cloudflare Account
- Go to Cloudflare and create a free account
- Click Add a Site
- Enter your domain name
- Let Cloudflare scan your DNS
- Choose the Free plan
Cloudflare will now prepare your domain to run through its network.
Step 3: Change Your Name Servers in Namecheap
Cloudflare will give you two name servers that look like:
- something.ns.cloudflare.com
Now go back to Namecheap:
- Open your Domain List
- Click Manage next to your domain
- Find the Name Servers section
- Switch from Namecheap Basic DNS to Custom DNS
- Paste the two Cloudflare name servers
- Save
It can take a few minutes to a few hours for the change to go live.
Step 4: Add Your DNS Records in Cloudflare
You now tell Cloudflare where your website is hosted.
- Get your hosting IP address from your hosting dashboard
- Go to the DNS tab in Cloudflare
- Add two A records:
First record
Name: @
Value: Your hosting IP
Second record
Name: www
Value: Your hosting IP
Make sure the cloud icon is orange so Cloudflare protection is active.
Step 5: Add Your Domain to Your Hosting
Log into your hosting provider.
Look for:
- Add Domain
- Add on Domain
- Parked Domain
Add your new domain there so your hosting knows to serve your website when people visit your domain.
Step 6: Turn on SSL in Cloudflare
- Go to the SSL or TLS tab in Cloudflare
- Set the mode to Flexible or Full
- Turn on Always Use HTTPS
Your site will now load securely.
Troubleshooting tips
If your site does not load:
- Wait a few hours for DNS to update
- Check that both A records point to the correct IP
- Test in a private browser window
If you see a security warning:
- Try switching SSL mode between Flexible and Full
- Make sure HTTPS is turned on in Cloudflare
Final Tips
Turn on auto renew in Namecheap so you never lose your domain. A domain is a real asset. Letting it expire can wipe out your brand overnight.
