How to Convert Addon Domain to Account Using WHM
Introduction

While managing multiple websites on a single hosting account, you experience things quickly becoming messy and chaotic. Shared resources, limited customization, and potential security risks are most common issues faced by anyone while using addon domains. In case you’ve been using addon domains in cPanel, you might want to give each domain its own account for better performance and proper control. Gratefully, WHM (Web Host Manager) makes this switch both easy and effective. It allows you to manage each domain independently with dedicated resources and enhanced security. Whether you’re a web host, developer, or business owner, knowing how to convert an addon domain into a standalone cPanel account is a smart and future-proof move. It not only improves management but also prepares your hosting environment towards growth.

1. Why Convert an Addon Domain to a Separate Account?

Addon domains are greatly useful for hosting multiple websites under one account. But they come with a few important limits.

Here’s why many site owners mostly prefer converting their websites:

• Improved Security: Isolation significantly reduces risks.
• Custom Resource Allocation: Assign specific bandwidth, disk space and other hosting resources.
• Easier Management: Especially beneficial for  resellers or agencies.
• Better Organization: Each website gets its own secure and dedicated space.

Vital Tip: Over time, using the same public HTML directory for addon domains can lead to face issues, mainly as your websites expand.

Before starting the conversion process, it’s vital to prepare everything carefully in advance.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Back up all site files and databases and essential configuration settings.
• Make a note of email accounts, subdomains, and redirects.
• Just make sure you have a complete root access to WHM without restrictions.
• Have DNS records ready for quick and accurate reconfiguration.
• Notify clients (if applicable) about the upcoming changes and expected downtime. changes.

This is an expert-level advice that always double-check the backup. Because one missed file could mean major issues later.

3. Major Steps to Convert Addon Domain to a Full cPanel Account

Here’s the core part of conversion process. Just follow these simple steps to move an addon domain to its own account:

Step-by-step in WHM:

1. Log in to WHM as root.
2. Navigate to “Convert Addon Domain to Account”.
3. Select the Addon domain you wish to convert.
4. WHM will auto-detect and suggest a new username and settings.
5. Review the new account details:
   • Username
   • Domain
   • Home directory
   • Package
6. Choose whether to preserve email accounts, FTP, and DNS.
7. Click “Convert”.

The process may take a few minutes mainly depending on the size of the website.

4. What Happens After the Conversion?

After the process is completed and finished, the addon domain becomes an independent cPanel account. Here’s what you can expect:

• Separate login for the new cPanel account
• Dedicated email, FTP, and subdomain management
•  Isolated file system
•  Resource control becomes easier

Things to check post-conversion:

• Website is properly loading
• All links and images work accurately
• Email services are correctly functional
• SSL certificate (re-issue if needed)
• DNS propagation (can take 24-48 hours)

Reminder: You need to remove the domain from the original cPanel after verifying everything.

5. Best Practices and Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, issues pop up during or after conversion process. Don’t panic. Here’s how to grip common hiccups:

• Issue: Emails not working
  Fix: Recheck MX records and recreate missing email accounts.
• Issue: SSL errors
  Fix: Install a new SSL for the standalone domain.
• Issue: Files missing or broken links
  Fix: Compare the old and new file structures. Use backups if needed.

Best Practices:

• Always test on a staging server first.
• Keep a copy of your backups for at least 7 days.
• Monitor server logs for errors or resource spikes.

Stay well informed and proactive, especially when managing multiple sites.

Conclusion: Make Hosting Simple and Smart

Converting an addon domain to a full cPanel account in WHM is a smart and active  way to scale, secure, and simplify your hosting structure. With better isolation, resource control, and easier management, you attain more flexibility for growth.

It may seem technical at first step, but once you follow the steps, it’s quite straightforward.

Don’t forget:

• Backup before you begin.
• Follow the checklist.
• Verify everything post-conversion.

Now, you’re ready and all set to upgrade your hosting game using WHM like a pro!

Tip: Are you ready to convert your addon domain today? Give your websites the space they deserve!