Overview
This article lists common errors you may encounter when adding a website and hosting at DreamHost and tips on how to resolve them.
The 'almost here!' message
A newly hosted domain includes a file named quickstart.html in the website's home directory. This file contains a placeholder page that prompts you to upload your website.
DreamHost servers are configured to load this file by default unless you delete it or upload your own website files containing your own index file.
Errors when adding a domain
This section details errors you may encounter when adding a website in the panel.
The domain name already exists in the system
Sorry, this domain is already in our system on another account. Please contact support if you feel this is a mistake.
If you see this error message, please confirm that the domain is not hosted on another DreamHost account you have access to. If you do not know what account the domain is currently hosted on, please contact support.
The domain registration is not supported in the system
Unfortunately, DreamHost cannot register or transfer that type of domain. You can still add DreamHost hosting to this domain, but will need to keep the registration somewhere else and point it to our nameservers to work.
If you see this warning message, you can continue to host the website with DreamHost; however, the domain registration will be managed with an external provider.
The domain name appears to be a subdomain
The domain looks like a subdomain. Did you want to create a subdomain instead?
If you see this warning message, the system detected that the domain being added is a subdomain. Click the Continue with Subdomain button to be taken to the Create a Subdomain section.
The domain name is registered with another domain provider
Please note, you may need to update DNS with your Registrar or DNS provider to point DreamHost records later.
If you see this warning message, the system detected that the domain name is registered with another provider and may require its DNS to be pointed to DreamHost. See this article for more information.
The domain name is not registered
Congrats, your domain is available!
If you see this warning message, the system detected that the domain name is not yet registered and would need to be purchased before it can be used. Click Buy Now to proceed to the Register Domains page. See this article for more information.